Dr. Monica Burns joins us to explore how educators can thoughtfully integrate AI tools to simplify their workload and enhance teaching practices. We discuss the evolution of AI in education since our first conversation and examine practical applications that prioritize teacher expertise while leveraging technological assistance.

• AI serves as a thought partner and assistant rather than a replacement for teacher expertise
• Effective AI use requires teachers to maintain their role as content experts, pedagogical specialists, and student advocates
• Starting with your to-do list and wish list helps identify specific areas where AI can make meaningful contributions
• Dictation features provide an excellent way to "brain dump" ideas without worrying about organization
• The "reply to refine" approach helps develop effective prompts by gradually adding specificity
• Privacy considerations are paramount—use district-approved tools and avoid uploading student information to free platforms
• Different AI platforms offer varying features that might better suit certain workflows or preferences
• When introducing AI to colleagues, focus on specific instructional pain points rather than forcing adoption
• Environmental impacts of AI use should be considered alongside convenience and time-saving benefits

This episode is sponsored by Plan Z Education Services.

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Episode 081: AI as Your Assistant with Dr. Monica Burns