Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators

Understanding the potential uses for AI as an assistive technology

Nov 4, 2024

Fiona Goodall, a special educator with over 20 years of experience, discusses the transformative potential of AI in assisting neurodivergent learners. She shares practical insights on using AI to enhance social interactions, helping students simplify friend invitations and foster connections. Fiona addresses the importance of thoughtful integration of AI in literacy support while highlighting ethical concerns. With a cautious yet optimistic view, she emphasizes the need for educators to harness AI responsibly to enrich personalized learning experiences.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Innovating Literacy Support with AI

02:04 • 14min

Navigating Social Interactions with AI Assistance

15:51 • 1min

Navigating Conflict through Scenario-Based Learning

17:21 • 4min

Navigating AI: Optimism and Caution

21:20 • 14min

In this episode, we sit down with Fiona Goodall, a leading expert on the social applications of assistive technologies. Fiona helps us understanding how emerging technologies, particularly AI, can benefit neurodivergent learners and support social-emotional development.

We'll explore a compelling use case where AI is being leveraged not just for academics, but to help foster friendships and meaningful connections. Fiona will also share her perspective on the need for cautious optimism when it comes to AI - a mindset she believes is critical as this powerful technology continues to advance.

Learn more about our special guest:

Fiona is: Autism Consultant Owner & Director of Making Connections Toowoomba

Making Connections Toowoomba was founded by Fiona Goodall, a Special Educator with over 20 years’ experience. Fiona holds a Bachelor of Education and Master of Special Education. She is also a certified facilitator of the PEERS® Program, Peaceful Kids Mindfulness and Positive Psychology programs, and is a certified facilitator of LEGO® Based Therapy. Fiona has a professional and personal interest in Mindfulness and Meditation. She is a Registered Meditation Teacher with the Meditation Association of Australia, and is currently studying a Diploma of Counselling.

Fiona has worked across all education sectors, including specialist autism settings, special education settings and mainstream schools, both in Australia and abroad. Fiona stepped into the private sector so she could devote her professional time, passion, and expertise to working directly with neurodivergent young people, and their families.

Fiona is a member of the Positive Partnerships Delivery Team, working with caregivers and educators of school-aged children on the autism spectrum to provide evidence-informed information through face-to-face and online workshops. Fiona is also a member of the Positive Partnerships Educators Reference Group.

Connect with her:

https://www.makingconnectionstoowoomba.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/makingconnectionstoowoomba/

https://www.instagram.com/makingconnectionstoowoomba/

Many thanks to our sponsors for making this conversation possible:

https://www.lebrahq.com/