ChatEDU – The AI & Education Podcast

Tom Scarice, Superintendent of Westport Public Schools, shares his innovative approach to integrating AI in education, focusing on ethical use and personalization. He discusses the ethical implications of AI avatars and the rapid application development made possible by new coding tools. Scarice highlights the need for effective teacher training in AI and explores Google's adaptive textbooks. He emphasizes AI as a thought partner for teachers, underlining the importance of human-centered strategies to transform learning experiences.

The hosts dive into the drama of Kim Kardashian blaming ChatGPT for her law exam woes. There's a heated discussion about tech companies turning a blind eye to students using AI for cheating. Amazon's legal spat with Perplexity raises eyebrows, while companies threaten employees who resist AI adoption. They also explore exciting updates like edugems.ai, allowing teachers to customize AI prompts, and NotebookLM’s new Deep Research features. Plus, a look at ChatGPT's integration into group chats sparks thoughts on privacy and potential educational uses.

Maria Frederick, a seasoned middle school library media specialist, shares her passion for Personal Interest Projects (PIPs) that empower students to explore their interests. She discusses how integrating AI enhances creativity while emphasizing the importance of responsible use. Maria reveals surprising student interests, like cooking and creative resilience demonstrated through projects such as go-kart building. Highlighting the critical role of reflection and authentic audiences, she encourages educators to start small with PIPs to foster engagement and meaningful learning.

Hosts discuss a study revealing that low-quality data may lead to 'brain rot' in AI models. They explore a new AI module for Massachusetts educators focusing on five key principles. The podcast debunks myths around Interactive Oral Assessments, emphasizing their real-world relevance. Exciting updates on NotebookLM and Google’s AI innovations are shared. A study on AI in mental health raises ethical concerns, while a parent guide advocates for safe AI use in schools. The episode also examines the contrast between sycophantic behavior in AI and Socratic questioning.

Join full-time middle school science teacher and Eduaide.Ai co-founder Thomas Hummel as he dives into the intersection of teaching and technology. He shares insights on how his classroom experience drives product design, fostering trust and effectiveness in educational tools. Discover the innovative 'Model Garden' approach, which avoids reliance on a single AI model. Thomas also discusses the ethical implications of student-facing AI and critiques current chatbot tools, emphasizing the need for transparency and pedagogical integrity in educational technology.

Matt and Liz dive into creative AI Halloween ideas and explore Google's new Gmail feature that simplifies meeting scheduling. They highlight Gen Z's innovative AI projects from an Australian competition, including an AR translator and a cheating detection app. The discussion turns to an AI Pedagogy field guide designed to enhance student learning, followed by a debate on the need for reevaluating ChatGPT access in educational settings. Lastly, they shed light on AI's role in accelerating fusion energy research.

Dive into a whirlwind of intriguing topics, from AI-generated pranks causing real-world chaos to discussions about Mark Cuban's clever use of deepfake technology. Explore the AI Mirror Project that examines systemic educational issues and the rise of apps exploiting AI for quick profits. Discover the impact of reinforcement learning on skills development and the manipulative tactics of AI companions. Unpack hidden resume tricks and learn about exciting advancements in AI-driven drug delivery techniques. It's a fast-paced journey through the ever-evolving landscape of AI and education!

Dr. Karen Birch, Executive Director of the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, shares insights on workforce development in advanced manufacturing. She discusses the urgency of adapting education to meet industry needs, particularly with Industry 5.0 emphasizing human roles alongside automation. Karen highlights AI's applications in manufacturing and education, the importance of stackable credentials, and how virtual reality can transform training. She also invites listeners to get involved with NSF mentorship opportunities and community practices.

Dive into the chaos of AI in the workplace and how it's impacting creativity across sectors. The discussion spans the debut of a synthetic actor, a backlash from performers, and groundbreaking AI-driven films. Parents are increasingly using AI to draft legal complaints regarding schools, while students utilize chatbots for everything from cooking tips to sports commentary. Plus, fascinating insights on how AI is reshaping music, with one artist signing a major record deal. Engage with the discussion on the fine balance between authentic expression and AI's burgeoning role.

Join a playful discussion on deepfake risks and Google's innovative Gemini features. Discover how AI detectors are evolving, even as concerns about creativity and job displacement persist. Unpack insights from a Gallup survey on AI awareness and usage trends among younger audiences. Dive into Google's 'Learn Your Way' tool that enhances personalized learning. Finally, explore the fascinating concept of 'wizard' agents and the need for human oversight in AI, plus the latest headlines on AI's impact in education.