

My EdTech Life
Fonz Mendoza
My EdTech Life is where education meets innovation with clarity, caution, and purpose. Hosted by Alfonso "Fonz" Mendoza Jr., this podcast features real conversations with educators, founders, researchers, and thought leaders who are shaping the future of learning.From classroom-tested tools to emerging AI trends, we cut through the noise to spotlight what truly works in K–12 and higher education. As a leading voice in responsible AI adoption, Fonz challenges the hype and elevates voices that often go unheard, bringing practical, ethical, and future-forward insights to every episode.Whether you're a teacher, instructional coach, policymaker, or edtech creator, this is your space to connect, question, and grow.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 3min
Episode 283: Ken Shelton & Dee Lanier
Join me as I welcome Ken Shelton and Dee Lanier, authors of the new book "The Promises and Perils of AI in Education: Ethics and Equity Have Entered The Chat." In this insightful discussion, Ken and Dee share their experiences writing the book, their critical analysis of the current AI landscape in education, and the urgent need to address issues of equity, access, and ethics as AI becomes more widespread in schools.Key topics and timestamps:0:00 - Introductions2:36 - Dee's background in education and work as an author/speaker3:28 - Ken's background as an educator and previous books7:08 - The story behind writing "The Promises and Perils of AI in Education"14:20 - Concerns about deploying flawed AI systems that enable discriminatory practices in schools20:12 - The risks of solely relying on AI and automation without considering unintended consequences28:57 - The importance of slowing down AI implementation in schools to critically examine the implications34:46 - Issues of access and the digital divide in AI implementation44:35 - AI and writing assessment - amplifying exclusion if applied negligently53:45 - Ken and Dee share their "EduKryptonite" - their biggest challenges as educators58:55 - Closing thoughtsThis is an important and timely discussion that all educators and edtech enthusiasts should listen to as AI increasingly shapes the future of education. Be sure to check out Ken and Dee's insightful new book for a deeper dive into these critical issues.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Interactive Learning with GoosechaseSave 10% with code MYEDTECH10 on all license types!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Jun 17, 2024 • 56min
Episode 282: Eduaide.AI
Episode 282: Pedagogy First, AI Second with Eduaide.AIJoin me as I interview Thomas Hummel and Thomas Thompson, the founders of Eduaide.Ai, for a great discussion about Generative AI in education. In this episode, we talk about the potential and challenges of AI tools for teachers, the importance of pedagogy-first AI development, data privacy considerations, and what the future holds for EduAide.AI.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro2:17 - Thomas Hummel's introduction and background3:12 - Thomas Thompson's introduction and background5:22 - Thomas Hummel reflects on the past year in education and AI10:06 - Thomas Thompson shares his perspective on the past year16:25 - Data privacy and how EduAide.ai handles student and teacher data24:53 - Concerns about tech chauvinism and passive AI use in education31:40 - Evaluating the efficacy of AI tools and EduAide.ai's research plans37:04 - What Thomas Hummel sees for the future of EduAide.ai41:35 - Thomas Thompson on EduAide.ai's plans for community and administrative tools48:11 - Edu-kryptonite: Lack of consensus on best instructional methods48:58 - Edu-kryptonite: Blaming students instead of engaging them better49:42 - Billboard message: "I'm exhausted" after 8 years of teaching50:17 - Billboard message: "Know thyself"51:21 - Scholarships available for free EduAide.Ai accounts51:46 - Wrap-upTo learn more about EduAide.Ai and their mission to empower teachers with transparent, pedagogy-first AI tools, visit their website at eduaide.ai. As always, be sure to like, share and subscribe to the My EdTech Life channel for more great interviews with edtech innovators!Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://lnkd.in/gT26WpvK--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Interactive Learning with GoosechaseSave 10% with code MYEDTECH10 on all license types!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Jun 12, 2024 • 60min
Episode 281: Kelly Schuster-Paredes
Balancing Innovation and Ethics in EdTech with Kelly Schuster-ParedesJoin me for a great conversation with Kelly Schuster-Paredes, a veteran educator and computer science teacher, as we dive into the world of AI, coding, and the future of education. Kelly shares her unique journey from science teacher to Pythonista and offers valuable perspectives on navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of educational technology.You can also listen to Kelly and Sean on the Teaching Python Podcast Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction1:32 - Kelly's background and transition into computer science5:08 - Experiences with ChatGPT and AI in education11:14 - Addressing concerns and establishing guidelines for AI use in schools16:37 - The importance of understanding AI's capabilities and limitations23:01 - Training teachers to effectively utilize AI tools28:30 - Fostering creativity and student ownership in the age of AI35:23 - Addressing bias and the need for diverse training data in AI models40:11 - Student perspectives on AI and its impact on learning44:57 - Striking a balance between innovation and data security47:26 - Kelly's kryptonite in the current state of education50:50 - Importance of lifelong learning and staying curious52:18 - Kelly's dream job and the joy of sharing knowledge54:48 - Kelly's podcast, "Teaching Python," and its mission to support educatorsDon't miss this thought-provoking episode as we explore the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the classroom. ➡️Be sure to subscribe to the My EdTech Life podcast for more inspiring conversations with innovative educators worldwide.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Interactive Learning with GoosechaseSave 10% with code MYEDTECH10 on all license types!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Jun 6, 2024 • 55min
Episode 280: Marce Lancioni
Teachers as Guardians: Responsible AI Use in the Classroom with Marce LancioniJoin me as I welcome Marce Lancioni, a passionate English teacher with over 30 years of experience from Argentina, to discuss the impact of AI on education. Marce shares her journey, from her initial excitement about AI to her growing concerns about responsible use and the need for informed decision-making in the classroom.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:13 - Marce's background and teaching experience03:21 - Marce's first impressions of AI and its impact on her teaching05:35 - Introducing AI to students and their reactions08:03 - Understanding the inner workings of AI and the importance of responsible use10:13 - The transformation of Marce's teaching practices with AI12:31 - The lack of national-level AI policies in Argentina and the need for proactive measures14:29 - The importance of teachers taking responsibility for AI use in the classroom16:33 - Marce's approach to incorporating AI tools in her lessons19:43 - Privacy concerns and the need for parental consent and transparency23:18 - The similarities in AI-related issues faced by educators in Argentina and the United States26:33 - Marce's experience with adapting international AI platforms for her students30:04 - The resurfacing of pre-existing issues in education due to the AI revolution32:31 - The importance of developing students' critical thinking skills in the age of AI35:55 - Concerns about AI-powered mental health apps for students and the need for caution40:59 - The significance of reducing risks and maintaining a balance when incorporating AI in the classroom44:57 - Marce's thoughts on her "EDUKryptonite" in the current state of education46:28 - The message Marce would put on a billboard to promote responsible use of technology50:06 - Marce's passion for teaching and learning and her dream of being a professional reader50:53 - Closing thoughts and appreciation for Marce's bold insights on AI in educationDon't miss this great conversation about AI's challenges and opportunities in education and educators' critical role in using it responsibly. If would you like to sponsor our show, please reach out to me at https://www.myedtech.life/contact/Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotiAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

10 snips
May 23, 2024 • 1h 13min
Episode 279: Navigating the Ethics and Challenges of AI in K-12 Education Panel
As AI rapidly advances, educators grapple with how to adopt and use AI tools in K-12 classrooms responsibly. In this insightful expert panel hosted by Fonz of the My EdTech Life podcast, educational leaders and an AI EdTech founder dive deep into the ethics, challenges, and opportunities surrounding AI in education.Join the conversation with panelists Adam Sparks, Karle Delo, Ed Dieterle, Bonnie Chelette, and Maurie Beasley as they discuss key considerations for educators, including:→Protecting student data privacy and security with AI platforms →Challenges with AI companies' terms of service for schools →Best practices for AI professional development and teacher training →Overcoming barriers to AI adoption in schools →AI's potential impact on learning outcomes and critical thinking skills The panelists emphasized the importance of digital literacy, empowering teachers, using AI to enhance rather than replace human capabilities, and keeping students' best interests at the forefront. Each expert also shares their biggest concern, "AI EduKryptonite," in the current K-12 AI landscape.This discussion offers valuable insights and perspectives for any educator or administrator navigating the complex issues surrounding AI in schools. Don't miss this timely conversation about one of the most important issues in education today.Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:20 Meet the expert panelists08:10 Protecting student data with AI platforms20:10 AI terms of service challenges for schools27:12 AI professional development best practices35:08 Overcoming barriers to AI adoption42:54 AI's impact on learning outcomes & skills57:40 Panelists' biggest AI concerns - "AI EduKryptonite"1:09:13 Wrap-upWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

May 16, 2024 • 58min
Episode 278: Anthony Beckett
Classroom Collaboration with MarkifyWelcome to another exciting episode of My EdTech Life! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Anthony Beckett, the brilliant young creator of the Markify App. At just 18 years old, Anthony has developed a powerful tool designed to enhance classroom engagement and accessibility. Join us as we dive deep into Anthony's journey, his inspirations, and how Markify is revolutionizing the way teachers and students interact in the classroom.Timestamps:0:30 - Introduction and greetings2:26 - Welcome Anthony Becket3:24 - Anthony's background and journey5:56 - The inception of Markify7:10 - Immersing in the education community13:12 - The challenges and growth of Markify17:09 - South by Southwest experience22:02 - Student-centered learning and feedback26:31 - The vision and capabilities of Markify34:54 - Collaboration and accessibility features37:45 - Demo of Markify features42:19 - Markify’s application in real classrooms43:54 - Anthony's future plans and feedback importance46:36 - Edu kryptonite: Weaknesses in the current state of education48:42 - Billboard message: Promoting student-centered learning51:28 - Hobbies and passion for STEMEnjoy this insightful conversation, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring EdTech content!Links:Visit Markify: https://markifyapp.com/Follow Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckett-anthony/Listen to more episodes: https://www.myedtech.life/Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

May 3, 2024 • 53min
Episode 277: Stevie Frank
Book Creator" Igniting Summer Reading with Stevie FrankJoin me in this engaging episode of My EdTech Life as he catches up with two-time guest Stevie Frank! Stevie, a digital innovator and tech coach from Indiana, shares her exciting project with Book Creator aimed at igniting summer reading. She also dives into the importance of creativity in the era of AI and discusses her adventurous approach to life.🔥 Stevie's Book Creator Project for Summer Reading [16:24]Discover how Stevie collaborates with Book Creator to create a summer reading project focusing on equity and accessibility. The project will be available nationwide and housed within Book Creator's Discover tab.🎨 Creativity in the Age of AI [28:08]Stevie and Fonz discuss the significance of creativity in the era of AI. They explore how Book Creator allows students to express their creativity and showcase their unique ideas, even if they don't consider themselves traditionally creative.🌎 Stevie's Adventurous Spirit [47:16]Get inspired by Stevie's adventurous outlook on life as she shares her favorite quote: "Ships are safe in the harbor, but that's not what ships were made for." She encourages stepping out of comfort zones and embracing new experiences.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction03:21 - Stevie's background and transition into EdTech16:24 - Stevie's Book Creator project for summer reading28:08 - The importance of creativity in the age of AI38:38 - Stevie's upcoming summer conference appearances45:43 - Stevie's "EDUKryptonite" (science)46:52 - Stevie's adventurous spirit and billboard quote48:00 - Stevie's passion for yoga and considering it as a full-time professionConnect with Stevie on Twitter @StevieFrank23 and stay tuned for the release of her inspiring Book Creator summer reading project!Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to catch more incredible conversations with educators, creators, and practitioners. Visit our website at www.myedtech.life to access all 277 episodes!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

May 1, 2024 • 1h 4min
Episode 276: Jed Stefanowicz
Beyond the Bulletin Board with Jed StefanowiczJoin me for an exciting conversation with Jed Stefanowicz, a lifelong educator, and author of the newly released book Beyond the Bulletin Board: Crafting a Culture of Content Creation. In this episode, Jed shares practical strategies and insights to help educators shift students from content consumers to content creators.Jed discusses the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking in the learning environment. He provides a framework that breaks down technology integration into four key domains: instruction, operation, creativity, and wellness. Jed emphasizes the power of capturing student thinking and giving them authentic ways to demonstrate their learning.Whether you're a classroom teacher looking for new strategies or an administrator aiming to support digital literacy, this episode offers valuable takeaways. Discover how to align technology with curriculum, provide multiple pathways for students to express themselves, and make learning visible to parents and the community.Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a meaningful reminder of why we do what we do as educators. Let's go "Beyond the Bulletin Board" together!Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:31 - Jed's background in education05:36 - The story behind "Beyond the Bulletin Board"11:45 - Overcoming obstacles to shift educator mindsets19:08 - Empowering student voice and choice22:24 - Cultivating a culture of innovation and risk-taking30:40 - Capturing student thinking and making learning visible37:38 - Importance of community partnerships46:12 - Key takeaways from the book51:54 - Where to find "Beyond the Bulletin Board"55:56 - Jed's current EduKryptonite56:51 - Billboard message58:19 - Hobbies and creative outlets1:00:43 - Closing thoughtsJed's Book on Amazon: Beyond the Bulletin Board: Crafting a Culture of Content Creation--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Apr 30, 2024 • 1h 8min
Episode 275: Michelle L.
Balancing AI Innovation and Student Privacy with Michelle L.In this episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome Michelle L. from the UK to discuss the complex landscape of AI in education. As an educator and consultant advising schools on EdTech acquisitions, Michelle brings a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation. Together, we talk about the hype surrounding AI, the potential risks and benefits for students and teachers, and the critical importance of data privacy and security in the EdTech space.Michelle shares her perspective on the rapid adoption of AI tools, the challenges of meaningful consent, and the need for greater transparency from EdTech companies. She and Fonz also explore the potential impact of AI on the teaching profession, the systemic issues driving teacher burnout, and the importance of proceeding with caution as we navigate this new frontier in education.Time Stamps:00:00 - Introduction01:57 - Michelle's background in education and EdTech consulting04:21 - Initial reactions to ChatGPT and the AI hype08:29 - Current experiences with AI in UK schools11:26 - The importance of defining AI and referencing research15:01 - Concerns about AI outsourcing and replacing teachers19:27 - The lack of research on AI's impact on student learning22:39 - The Trojan horse of AI in education25:39 - Engaging students vs. ensuring their learning with AI tools28:58 - The opaque nature of EdTech companies and data sharing34:20 - The difficulty of regulating AI in schools38:35 - The potential for student-driven lawsuits against EdTech42:20 - EdTech companies preying on teacher burnout46:36 - The need for government oversight of EdTech privacy and security51:07 - Concerns about using student photos and data in AI systems56:36 - Wrapping up the conversation59:01 - Michelle's edu-kryptonite: school uniforms1:00:16 - Billboard message: "Move slowly and fix things."1:01:52 - Hobby turned profession: Tarot reading for business--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Apr 17, 2024 • 1h 7min
Episode 274: Sofia De Jesus
Sofia De Jesus, an associate program manager at CMUCS Academy, CSTA Equity Fellow, and author, discusses AI in education. Topics include data privacy, bias, equity, and responsible implementation of AI tools. Exploring LAUSD chatbot release, transparency, teacher training, student needs, grifting in AI education, and ensuring responsible AI implementation in schools.