Edufuturists #290 Asking the Awkward Questions with Al Kingsley

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome back for the FOURTH time, the wonderful, majestic, Al Kingsley MBE, a prominent figure in the EdTech space. Alongside Al's personal challenges, we discuss his multifaceted roles in education, and the importance of supporting startups in the EdTech ecosystem. The conversation delves into the slow evolution of education systems, the need for change in educational conversations, and the release of Al's new book, which addresses awkward questions in education. The episode emphasises the interconnectedness of education, technology, and personal growth, highlighting the importance of power (not soft!) skills in the age of AI. In this conversation, we look again at the evolving landscape of education, focusing on the challenges of measuring intangible qualities, the need for reformed assessment methods, and the critical role of educators in adapting to change. We emphasise the importance of balancing accountability with nurturing environments for students, the necessity of systemic change, and the value of human aspects in education amidst technological advancements. The dialogue also touches on the need for a curriculum that reflects the skills, knowledge and dispositions required for future success, moving beyond traditional grading systems.Chapters00:00 Introductions01:41 Al Kingsley's Multifaceted Role in EdTech04:01 Personal Challenges and Professional Insights06:27 The Importance of Supporting Startups in EdTech08:52 The Slow Evolution of Education Systems11:20 Global Perspectives on Education and Technology15:27 Exploring Al's New Book: The Awkward Questions in Education20:00 The Need for Change in Educational Conversations27:21 The Challenge of Measuring Intangibles in Education30:52 Rethinking Assessment Methods32:22 The Role of Educators in a Changing Landscape35:59 Navigating the Fear of Change in Education39:47 The Importance of Systemic Change43:40 Balancing Accountability and Nurturing in Schools48:41 Redefining Success Beyond GradesGrab a copy of The Awkward Questions in Education: The Elephants in the Room from AI to Teacher RetentionThanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you.Ben & Steve xChampioning those who are making the future of education a reality.Follow us on XFollow us on LinkedInCheck out all about EdufuturistsWant to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work?Get in touchGet your tickets for Edufuturists Uprising 2025