Student agency in the time of AI, with Tobin Slaven

In this episode, host Andreas welcomes Tobin Slaven, head of Acton Academy in Fort Lauderdale, to discuss innovative education methods. Tobin shares insights on fostering student agency, the importance of conflict resolution and promises, and the transformative potential of personalized learning. The conversation delves into the use of smart goals, creating meaningful work, and the role of AI in education. Tobin emphasizes that the key to future success lies in students learning to collaborate with AI and developing critical thinking through self-evaluation and reflection.

00:00 The Role of AI in Education

01:06 Introduction to Tobin Slavin

01:20 Tobin's Journey in Education

02:52 The Acton Academy Model

03:41 Challenges and Innovations in Education

13:47 Conflict Resolution and Promises

16:44 Celebrations and Creating Moments

22:17 Peer-to-Peer Learning and Agency

27:45 Empowering Self-Directed Learning

28:11 Conflict Resolution and Self-Management

28:49 Building Blocks for Student Agency

29:46 Connecting to Meaningful Work

31:07 Acton Model and Real-World Skills

31:59 Feedback Systems and 360 Reviews

35:58 Learning Design vs. Curriculum

36:28 Goal Setting and Smart Goals

37:45 Learning How to Learn

41:26 The Role of AI in Education

42:52 Critical Thinking and Metacognition

46:24 Meaningful Work and AI Collaboration

49:22 The Future of Education and AI

50:51 Failing Forward and Continuous Improvement

52:48 Children as Natural Scientists

53:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts