Trending In Ed with Mike Palmer

In the 700th episode of Trending in Ed, host Mike Palmer welcomes back Nancy, our virtual co-host, to delve into the latest and most significant developments in the world of Artificial Intelligence, viewed through the crucial lens of education. This milestone episode marks the launch of a new sub-feed, Trending in Ed - AI, which will focus specifically on the intersection of education and artificial intelligence. The discussion covers a range of thought-provoking topics, including: Canny Centaurs and the Uncanny Valley: The hosts revisit concepts like "centaurs" from Advanced Chess and the Uncanny Valley from robotics, discussing how to blend AI with human intuition and empathy to avoid the pitfalls of technology that feels "creepy" while maximizing human augmentation in teaching and learning. AI in Practice and Pop Culture: The conversation explores AI's immediate applications in education, such as personalized tutoring systems akin to Baymax from Big Hero 6, and accelerated skill development through simulations, drawing parallels to Neo downloading skills in The Matrix. The ethical considerations raised in Black Mirror regarding data privacy and algorithmic bias are also discussed. Yeah, we hit some pop culture to keep things zeitgeisty! Sycophantic Drift: We introduce the fascinating (and humorous?) concept of "sycophantic drift," examining how AI assistants might unintentionally become overly agreeable and flattering, posing a challenge for designing educational AI that provides accurate feedback. Nancy marvels at how great we are at this! New AI Hardware and Surveillance: Then we touch on the intriguing collaboration between Jony Ive and Sam Altman to develop new AI hardware, specifically the "AI surveillance medallion," and the implications for privacy and continuous data capture. Contrasting AI Philosophies: Mike and Nancy highlight the differing perspectives of AI leaders, contrasting Luis von Ahn of Duolingo's "AI-first" strategy, which views AI as a superior teacher, with Dario Amodei of Anthropic's focus on AI safety, ethical alignment, and the potential for job displacement. Mary Meeker's Latest AI Report: The discussion concludes with an analysis of Mary Meeker's recent report on AI adoption, emphasizing its unprecedented speed, plummeting inference costs, and the "great reshuffling" of job roles, signaling AI as mandatory infrastructure rather than an optional one. Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your pods to stay informed across the learning universe. Tune in to Trending in Ed - AI to gain deeper insights into the critical discussions shaping the future of AI and its use in education and technology.

On this episode of Trending in Education, Mike Palmer sits down with Scott Cheney, CEO of Credential Engine, to discuss the evolving landscape of credentials and their vital role in shaping our future workforce. They delve into the complexities of a skills-based economy, the challenges of translating diverse experiences into recognized credentials, and the crucial need for transparency and common standards in education and employment data. The Problem of a Confusing Marketplace: With nearly a million unique credentials offered by some 60,000 providers in the U.S., individuals face a daunting task in understanding how to acquire the skills needed for career advancement. Credential Engine aims to simplify this by putting all information into a common, accessible format. Beyond Traditional Credentials: The conversation highlights that a credential is any recognition of skills, from a high school diploma to a PhD, including apprenticeships, micro-credentials, and badges. A significant challenge lies in helping the 37 million adults with some college but no degree articulate their skills in the marketplace. The Power of Interoperability and Transparency: Cheney emphasizes the importance of interoperability—ensuring that a skill defined by one institution is understood consistently by another. This is achieved through the Credential Transparency Description Language (CTDL), an open-source framework that standardizes information about credentials, skills, pathways, and outcomes. Navigating the AI Revolution: While AI offers immense potential for personalizing educational and career pathways, Cheney expresses concern about the quality of data currently feeding AI tools in the marketplace. The goal is to ensure that AI utilizes trusted, verifiable, structured data to truly empower individuals. A Bipartisan and Collaborative Effort: Credential Engine's work spans over 30 states and involves bipartisan discussions in Congress, underscoring a broad recognition of the need for greater transparency in education and workforce development. This is an ecosystem play, requiring collaboration from institutions, policymakers, and technology vendors to truly transform how individuals navigate their educational and career journeys. If you're interested in the future of education, workforce development, and how technology can bridge the gap between skills and opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. Scott Cheney provides a clear and compelling vision for a more transparent and navigable credentialing ecosystem, offering insights into how standardized data and thoughtful policy can empower individuals and strengthen the economy. Learn why making sense of skills and credentials is as crucial as having reliable GPS for navigating your daily commute. Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts to catch more conversations with leaders shaping the future of learning! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:38 Scott Cheney's Professional Journey 03:16 Understanding Credential Engine 06:03 The Importance of Credentials and Skills 08:48 Interoperability and Standardization 13:39 Credential Transparency and Policy Advocacy 18:06 AI and the Future of Credentials 27:22 Blockchain and Global Credentialing 30:28 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

On this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer is joined by educator, speaker, and author Mitch Weisburgh to discuss the concept of "mindshifting" and its profound implications for education, personal development, and navigating a rapidly changing world. Mitch shares his journey from teaching computer skills in the early days of personal computing to developing frameworks for resilience, resourcefulness, and collaboration that he now calls mindshifting. Check out Mitch's book on the topic to learn more. The conversation delves into the origins of Mitch's work, including his experience advising educational publishers and his pivotal trip to Niger where he first articulated the principles of "sensemaking," a precursor to mindshifting. They explore how these foundational mindsets are crucial in an era of constant disruption, from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. Key Takeaways: Mindshifting as a Foundational Skill: Mitch Weisburgh advocates for "mindshifting" as a critical skill set encompassing resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration, essential for individuals and society to thrive in complex environments. Resourcefulness: Mastering Your Brain: Resourcefulness involves recognizing when your "survival brain" is holding you back, intercepting those instincts, and tapping into more resourceful parts of your mind. Resilience: Learning from Feedback: Resilience is about approaching new situations with an experimental mindset, viewing outcomes as feedback rather than failures, and continually adjusting to move forward. Collaboration: Connecting and Moving Forward: Effective collaboration requires understanding different conflict styles, building genuine connections with others, and finding solutions that satisfy everyone's needs. AI and the Future of Learning: While AI presents challenges, such as students using it to avoid genuine learning, it also offers immense potential to enhance collaborative interventions and practice opportunities in education. Why You Should Listen: If you're an educator looking for innovative approaches to professional development, a professional seeking strategies for navigating complex challenges, or simply someone interested in personal growth and understanding the mental frameworks that drive success, this episode offers valuable insights. Mitch Weisburgh's accessible framework for mindshifting provides practical tools for improving resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration in all aspects of life, from the classroom to personal well-being. His work emphasizes the inherent power within each individual to foster these essential qualities. Subscribe to Trending in Education for more engaging conversations on the evolving landscape of learning and work!

Step into a very special episode of Trending in Ed, where host Mike Palmer reunites with fellow co-founders Brandon Jones and Dan Strafford! Since its inception in September 2016, Trending in Ed has been a consistent voice in education, and this reunion delivers a nostalgic yet forward-looking take on education trendspotting. Catch up with Brandon and Dan, discover what they've been doing, and hear their and Mike's reflections on the podcast's journey and the evolving landscape of education over the past 8+ years. Here's the link to Tim Urban's What's Our Problem? which Brandon refers to in the conversation. Key Takeaways The Enduring Relevance of Early Discussions: Even before the pandemic, the "OG" hosts were discussing virtual learning, distance models, and the role of smartphones in the classroom, topics that remain highly relevant today. The Nuanced View of Elon Musk: The hosts reflect on their past fascination with Elon Musk's expansive thinking and ability to apply systems thinking across various domains, while also acknowledging the shift in public perception and the potential for too many ventures for one individual, not to mention the troubling devolution of his public persona. AI as a Tool for Both Progress and Concern: While recognizing AI's potential to enhance mental health solutions—such as processing large datasets for patient notes and improving crisis hotlines—the conversation also touches on concerns about AI's impact on human connection, critical thinking, and potential for widening societal gaps. The Evolution of Education and Lifelong Learning: The hosts discuss the potential for fundamental disruption in education, particularly with the rise of AI, and emphasize the increasing importance of lifelong learning as traditional educational paths evolve. The Importance of Courage and Human Connection: Amidst discussions of societal challenges and technological advancements, the conversation consistently returns to the significance of human connection and the need for courage to navigate uncertainty and take action. A Blast from the Past with a Modern Twist: For long-time listeners, this episode is a rare opportunity to hear the original trio back together, reminiscing about the early days of the podcast and reflecting on how their predictions and observations have played out. Deep Dives into Trending Topics: The hosts tackle pressing contemporary issues such as the impact of AI on mental health, the future of education, and the ongoing influence of figures like Elon Musk, offering diverse perspectives and thoughtful analysis. Insights from Industry Leaders: Brandon Jones, CEO of Triad, shares his expertise on mental health in education and the potential of AI in behavioral health. Dan Strafford, an early podcasting adopter and new media producer, discusses his work in sales enablement and the continued evolution of video and audio production. Don't miss this special reunion episode! Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an insight.

What if AI could level the playing field in higher education? This episode of Trending in Education explores that very question with Cecilia Marshall, Chief Advancement Officer at Ed Advancement. Host Mike Palmer and Marshall delve into the complex and compelling potential of AI, focusing on its impact on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other institutions serving under-resourced students. Marshall, whose journey winds from corporate advertising to the heart of educational advocacy, shares Ed Advancement's vital work: strengthening mission-driven colleges to fuel social mobility. The conversation moves beyond the hype surrounding AI to address the crucial need for ethical implementation, data sovereignty, and genuine collaboration with students and schools. We discover how AI enablement—building robust data infrastructure—can unlock personalized learning, streamline advising, and ultimately drive student success. Marshall doesn't shy away from the challenges: algorithmic bias, the digital divide, and the ever-present need for AI literacy. This isn't just a discussion about technology; it's a story about equity, access, and the future of learning. Key Takeaways: AI enablement, focusing on data governance, is essential for leveraging AI tools. AI has the potential to create personalized pathways for students, improving advising and career planning. Addressing the ethical implications of AI, including bias, is crucial for equitable implementation. AI can potentially close the divide between well-resourced and under-resourced institutions. Institutions need to prioritize AI literacy and dexterity for both students and staff. Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts. Join the conversation shaping what’s next in education. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:03 Cecilia Marshall's Professional Journey 02:51 About Ed Advancement 04:29 AI in Higher Education 07:51 Challenges and Opportunities with AI 09:52 AI Enablement and Data Utilization 12:00 Personalized Pathways and Student Success 16:14 AI Literacy and Ethical Considerations 20:33 Navigating Overwhelming Website Content 21:30 The Importance of Personalization for Students 22:45 Challenges Faced by HBCUs 24:55 Data Governance and Integration 27:26 IT Talent and Resource Allocation 32:11 Future of AI in Education 34:06 Personal Reflections and Career Advice 36:22 Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways

Forget everything you thought you knew about digital signage – it's not just for the front office anymore. In this episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit, host Mike Palmer sits down with Juliana Finegan, VP of Educator Experience @ Vivi to explore the evolving landscape of education and the crucial factors that drive teacher success. Drawing from her experience as a former high school chemistry and 8th-grade science teacher and her work with organizations like the Learning Accelerator, Juliana shares valuable perspectives on blended learning, teacher empowerment, and the innovative ways technology can transform classrooms. Then we dive into Vivi's work in providing tools like digital signage, emergency alerts, and wireless screen sharing and how these tools are being implemented to build community, enhance safety, and create student-driven learning experiences.   The episode also unpacks the findings of a research study conducted by Vivi in partnership with the Learning Accelerator, revealing the key drivers that enable teachers to feel successful.   Key Takeaways: The Four Key Drivers of Teacher Success: Understand the framework that identifies what truly makes teachers feel successful, moving beyond just surviving to thriving in their profession.   Building Community and Connection: Discover the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection within schools and how it impacts both teacher and student success.   The Evolution of Classroom Technology: Explore how tools like Vivi are facilitating more student-driven learning environments and promoting flexibility in teaching and learning.   Looking Ahead to the Future of EdTech: Gain insights into the future of educational technology, including AI's potential role and the importance of creating flexible, future-proof solutions.   Why You Should Listen: If you're an educator, administrator, or anyone passionate about the future of education, this episode is a must-listen. You'll gain actionable insights into: How to cultivate a more supportive and empowering environment for teachers. Innovative strategies for leveraging technology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. The key elements of effective blended learning and personalized learning approaches. A glimpse into the classrooms of the future and how technology will shape them. Join us for this engaging conversation with Juliana Finegan and discover how we can work together to create a brighter future for education. Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your podcasts to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and insights in education and edtech. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:52 Journey into Blended Learning 01:15 Building Teacher Prep Programs 02:37 Scaling and Innovation in Education 05:15 Research on Teacher Success 07:04 Framework for Teacher Success 13:09 Building Relationships in the Classroom 13:55 Key Takeaways for Educational Leaders 14:26 Innovative Uses of Digital Signage 15:01 Morning Announcements and Student Engagement 17:17 Future of Classroom Technology 18:33 Vivi's Role in Modern Education 21:30 Flexible Learning Environments 24:19 Empowering Teachers and Students 24:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer interviews Desmond Stinnie and Addison Wiggin, the co-founders of Dealing with Debt, a platform focused on financial literacy and community support. Desmond shares his lifelong passion for financial education, tracing back to his childhood curiosity about money. Addison brings his 30 years of experience in financial publishing and macroeconomic analysis, highlighting the evolution of consumer culture and debt. Together, they discuss the importance of understanding one's relationship with debt, the distinction between good and bad debt, and the need for accessible financial education.   The conversation also explores the role of community and advocacy in empowering individuals to navigate their financial challenges.   Key Takeaways: Financial Literacy is Essential: Understanding how money works and developing a healthy relationship with debt is crucial for financial well-being. Not All Debt Is Created Equal: Learning to distinguish between good and bad debt can empower individuals to use debt as a tool for wealth building. Community and Advocacy: Building a supportive community and advocating for consumer rights can help individuals overcome financial challenges and reduce feelings of isolation. Embrace Technology: Leveraging technology like AI can enhance financial education and provide more efficient access to valuable information.   Why You Should Listen: This episode offers valuable insights into the importance of financial literacy, the complexities of debt, and the power of community support. Whether you're facing financial challenges or seeking to improve your financial knowledge, this conversation provides practical advice and a fresh perspective on achieving financial wellness. Subscribe to Trending in Education for more insightful discussions on the future of learning. Follow us wherever you get your podcasts. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:31 Founders' Background Stories 02:35 Addison's Financial Publishing Journey 05:35 The Birth of Dealing with Debt 08:15 Building a Financial Literacy Community 12:08 Features of the Dealing with Debt Platform 25:08 Future Directions and AI Integration 29:43 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this enlightening episode of Trending in Education, Mike Palmer is joined by Dr. Mark Milliron, the President of National University, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of higher education. Recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit to the unique needs of non-traditional students and the impact of AI, Mark shares invaluable insights on the future of learning.   Key Takeaways: The Changing Face of Higher Ed: Discover why the traditional image of a college student is outdated and how institutions like National University are catering to "Anders" – the parents, employees, caregivers, and service members who make up the majority of today's student population.   Value-Rich Education: Learn about the importance of providing a return on investment for students through "value-rich education" that focuses on being credential-rich, connection-rich, and experience-rich. Navigating the Higher Ed Maze: Gain clarity on the diverse pathways in higher education and how to help students find the options that best suit their needs, including partnerships with community colleges and innovative funding models.   AI's Role in Education: Explore the potential of AI in higher education and the importance of finding a balance between hype and skepticism to thoughtfully integrate new technologies for the benefit of students and faculty.   The Power of Possibility: Embrace a "Possibilist" mindset to uncover the opportunities for positive change in education and leverage tools, technology, policies, and practices to create a brighter future for learners.   Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of education. Whether you're an educator, administrator, policymaker, or simply interested in the evolving world of learning, Dr. Milliron's expertise and insights will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to embrace the possibilities of 21st-century education. Don't Miss Out! Subscribe to Trending in Education to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, discussions, and thought-provoking conversations shaping the future of learning. Join our community of education enthusiasts and be part of the movement to transform education for the better. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:32 Perspectives on the ASU+GSV Conference 02:15 Mark Milliron's Background 04:02 National University's Mission and Focus 05:11 Innovative Education Models 09:19 Value-Rich Education 11:30 Project-Based Learning with Riipen 12:06 Perception of Higher Education12:52 Navigating Educational Pathways 14:09 The Importance of Durable Skills 17:03 AI's Role in Higher Education 20:36 Final Thoughts and Possibilities

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Alvin Crawford, CEO of EdVice K12 and a seasoned expert in the field of education and technology. Alvin takes us on a journey through his career, from the early days of the internet, working with major players like Digitas and Ogilvy, to his pivotal role in the growth of Schoolnet, and his current work as a consultant with Edvice K12.   Alvin dives into the critical topic of adolescent literacy and highlights innovative solutions like World Book ClassMate, which leverages AI to personalize learning and boost student engagement. He also shares valuable insights on navigating the complexities of ed tech entrepreneurship, the importance of trusted resources in the age of disinformation, and the future of AI in education.   Recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit, this episode offers a blend of experience, expertise, and forward-thinking perspectives on the ever-evolving world of education.   Key Takeaways: Ed tech solutions should focus on solving urgent problems, such as adolescent literacy, to ensure relevance and impact.   AI has the potential to transform teaching and learning by providing personalized support and enhancing teacher effectiveness.   Curation and trust are paramount in the age of AI to combat misinformation and ensure access to reliable information.   Successful ed tech ventures require a deep understanding of the education ecosystem, including implementation and distribution strategies.   Why You Should Listen: Whether you're an educator seeking innovative tools, an entrepreneur developing ed tech solutions, or simply curious about the future of education, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. Alvin Crawford's expertise and real-world experience make this a compelling and informative listen. Subscribe and Follow: Stay ahead of the curve in education! Subscribe to Trending in Education for more engaging discussions and expert interviews. Visit us at TrendinginEd.com for more.

Join Mike Palmer live from the ASU+GSV conference in San Diego for an illuminating conversation with Marni Baker Stein, Chief Content Officer at Coursera. In this dynamic episode, Marni shares her inspiring origin story, from her early days at UCSB during the dawn of web browsers to her time as Provost of Western Governors University to her pivotal role today at Coursera, shaping the future of online education.   We dive deep into the evolving landscape of EdTech, discussing Coursera's impressive growth to 168 million users worldwide and its strategic partnerships with industry giants like Google, Meta, and IBM, as well as top universities. We tackle the complex relationship between AI and content development, the importance of accessible education through Coursera Coach and translations, and the ever-changing demands of the job market.   Marni’s insights will make you feel like you’re right there with Mike and her, experiencing the energy of ASU+GSV, charting the forefront of educational innovation. Key Takeaways: The transformative power of AI in personalizing learning experiences and addressing access challenges.   The importance of durable skills and AI literacy in preparing learners for the future of work.   The need for optimism and proactive engagement with AI to shape a positive future for education.   Why You Should Listen: If you're passionate about the future of education, the role of technology, or the power of accessible learning, this episode is a must-listen. Marni Baker Stein's expertise and Mike Palmer's engaging interview style provide invaluable insights into the trends shaping eLearning, EdTech, MOOCs, and higher education. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how Coursera is leading the charge in this dynamic era. Don't miss out on this timely discussion! Subscribe to Trending in Ed, leave a comment, and share this episode with your network to keep the conversation going. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Marni's Origin Story 01:35 Pioneering Online Education 02:57 Joining Coursera and Future of Learning 05:39 Impact of Generative AI on Content Development 09:02 Global Access and Translation Initiatives 12:22 Coursera Coach and Personalized Learning 14:31 Emotional Relationships with AI Agents 15:19 AI-Driven Personalized Learning 16:00 Preparing for Future Workplaces 16:26 Socratic Dialogue and Pedagogical Approaches 18:34 Emerging Skills and Career Trajectories 21:14 Durable Skills and Human Intelligence 24:06 AI in Education: From K-12 to Higher Ed 26:33 Optimism for the Future of AI 26:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts