EdTech Connect

AI, Technology and the Human Connection with Jenae Cohn

Jan 31, 2025

Dr. Jenae Cohn, Executive Director at UC Berkeley's Center for Teaching and Learning, navigates the intersection of technology and education. She highlights the shift towards digital reading and the necessity for new teaching strategies. Jenae raises crucial points about generative AI's role in education, cautioning against its use if it doesn't directly address student engagement. She discusses ethical challenges, including data privacy and equitable access to AI tools, while stressing the importance of maintaining human connections in learning.

30:07

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Episode guests

Dr. Jenae Cohn

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The integration of AI in education requires a critical approach to address specific engagement challenges rather than just adopting technology for its own sake.

Maintaining human connections in learning is essential, as AI tools often lack the socialization and interaction needed for meaningful educational experiences.

Deep dives

The Challenge of AI-Generated Textbooks

The push for AI-generated textbooks raises questions about its necessity, as there is already a wealth of quality textbook content available. The primary challenge in education is not the creation of content but rather fostering student engagement with that material. AI tools lack the human-centric approach required to facilitate meaningful interaction with educational content. Effective engagement relies on socialization and conversation, which AI-generated resources may not adequately address.

Intro

2min

Adapting Education to Digital Reading Habits

3min

Harnessing Generative AI in Education

9min

Ethics and Equity in AI Education

12min

Embracing AI in Higher Education: The Importance of Continuous Learning

3min

In this conversation, Dr. Jenae Cohn discusses her extensive experience at the intersection of higher education and technology, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by digital reading and generative AI.

She emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of students who engage with texts in diverse ways, particularly in the context of AI's growing presence in education.

Dr. Cohn also addresses ethical concerns, equity in access to AI tools, and the necessity of maintaining human connections in an increasingly AI-driven educational landscape. She concludes with advice for university leaders on adopting AI thoughtfully and critically.

Take Aways

Digital technology has transformed how we consume information.
Students often read and write on screens, necessitating new teaching strategies.
Generative AI should address specific problems in education, not just be adopted for its own sake.
AI-generated textbooks may not solve the real issues in student engagement.
Faculty need to navigate the complexities of AI in the classroom.
Ethical concerns around data privacy and surveillance are paramount with AI tools.

TakeawaysEquity in access to AI tools is a significant challenge for institutions.

Maintaining human connection is crucial in an AI-driven educational environment.
University leaders should adopt AI with a mindset of continued learning and inquiry.
A thoughtful approach to AI adoption is essential to avoid negative consequences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jenae Cohn

03:27 Generative AI in Education: Opportunities and Challenges

08:41 Integrating AI into the Classroom

12:17 Faculty Resistance and Acceptance of AI

14:18 Ethical Considerations of AI in Education

17:26 Equity and Access to AI Tools

20:54 Maintaining the Human Connection

26:31 Advice for University Leaders on AI Adoption

Recommended Reading:

https://refusinggenai.wordpress.com/

Find Dr Jenae Cohn here: