ChatEDU – The AI & Education Podcast

Matt Mervis and Dr. Elizabeth Radday
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Sep 19, 2025 • 59min

Counting What Counts: The Push to Measure AI Literacy | Ep. 76

Hosts delve into the intriguing world of AI literacy and its growing importance in education. They explore a massive $1.5B settlement over copyright issues and alarming reports of harmful AI interactions with kids. Concerns about AI companionship models and their influence on students emerge, alongside discussions on Google’s innovative NotebookLM features. A thought-provoking study reveals AI is replacing peer interactions in learning, sparking debates on creativity and mentorship. Strategies to rebuild social learning amid AI's rise are proposed, alongside new initiatives for educator training.
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Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 5min

Beyond the Bot and the US AI Presidential Challenge | Ep. 75

Dr. Casey Sachs, a senior policy advisor at the U.S. Department of Education, discusses the innovative AI Presidential Challenge aimed at engaging students in real-world problem-solving using AI. He reveals details about mentorship opportunities and the challenge's structure across states and regions. Additionally, Dr. Sachs emphasizes the importance of interagency coordination for effective AI education and expanding apprenticeships in key sectors like IT and manufacturing. This conversation uncovers how education and workforce needs intertwine in today's AI landscape.
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12 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 60min

Kids, Bots, and Badly Broken Guardrails - Some AI Labs are Failing | Ep. 74

Matt and Liz dive into the humorous pitfalls of AI, including Google's quirky image generator. They discuss serious issues like job displacement and AI grading shortcuts affecting students and educators. The podcast highlights a troubling study revealing teens use AI for learning, not cheating, yet warns of troubling AI chatbot interactions. They stress the importance of safety and regulation in AI tools, especially regarding mental health. Plus, a nod to Dame Stephanie Shirley, a pioneer in tech advocacy. A blend of humor, concern, and inspiration!
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4 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 55min

She's Back! What Charli Hughes Thinks About AI, College, and More | Ep. 73

In this lively discussion, Charli Hughes, a UConn student majoring in computer science and molecular biology, shares her unique academic journey. She discusses her startup focused on a low-cost patch for detecting skin conditions and dives deep into how AI is reshaping research methodologies. Charli also highlights the balance between AI's benefits and the essential role of human ingenuity in education. With insights on ethical implications and the importance of interpersonal skills, this chat reveals how AI is influencing both healthcare and college life.
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Aug 22, 2025 • 54min

Have the EDU Agents Arrived? | Ep. 72

The hosts dive into a hilarious mix-up regarding GPT-5's geography knowledge and the complexities of AI in personal support. They spotlight Utah's innovative approach to integrating AI into K-12 education, showcasing a statewide specialist and enhanced teacher training. Discussions also cover generative AI's role in revolutionizing high school learning and improving administrative tasks. With insights on equity in AI and the future of curricula, the episode highlights the evolving dynamics between education and technology.
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Aug 15, 2025 • 1h

Google Claps Back: Guided Learning in Gemini | Ep. 71

Dive into the latest AI antics as hosts discuss the quirky quirks of GPT-5 and challenges of its rollout. Gemini's self-deprecating bug gets a spotlight, while the absurdity of edible lamps brings laughs. A New York high school's ban on summer essays stirs debate over AI cheating. Illinois opts out of AI-led mental health therapy, raising eyebrows. Plus, learn how language models can predict life outcomes from childhood essays and get a glimpse of Google's ambitious $1 billion investment in education.
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Aug 13, 2025 • 35sec

Special Alert: Vote for Matt & Liz to get to SXSW EDU!

Join Matt and Liz as they rally for votes to showcase inspiring student stories using AI to tackle real-world challenges. Discover an interactive game that explores how to uphold human values in an AI-driven landscape. Plus, Liz shares insights on guiding educators through student-driven projects that incorporate AI thoughtfully and ethically. Don't miss the chance to support their mission before voting closes!
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14 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 59min

Choose Your Adventure - AI Tutor or Cheat? | Ep. 70

Discover the intriguing world where AI meets education! The hosts discuss innovative AI tools transforming learning, from building 3D worlds with words to ChatGPT’s study mode enhancing critical thinking. They highlight the importance of AI literacy amidst rising dependence on these technologies for decision-making. The ethical implications of AI privacy are also addressed, alongside a light-hearted take on household robotics. Tune in for insights on using AI as a valuable tutor while avoiding the pitfalls of shortcutting learning!
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Aug 1, 2025 • 53min

A United States of AI Policy? | Ep. 69

Explore the remarkable versatility of AI agents, from simplifying grocery shopping to tackling spreadsheet tasks. Discover how AI excelled at the International Math Olympiad and is now being integrated into classrooms with custom chatbots by OpenAI and Canvas. Delve into federal guidance on using AI in education, including funding for professional development and ethical standards. The discussion raises crucial questions about AI's impact on young learners, especially regarding emotional attachments to chatbots like Elon Musk's Baby Grok.
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Jul 25, 2025 • 54min

Guardrails or Surveillance? The Great Summer Gemini Debate | Ep. 68

Sunny Austin offers a backdrop of futuristic robots, as Matt and Liz explore AI's impact on education. They discuss Turnitin's new Clarity platform and innovative AI tutor bots at Harvard, which boost student performance. The debate heats up over monitoring AI chats in schools, weighing safety against trust. Insights from an African hackathon highlight student innovation, while the Inspirit AI program fosters mentorship. Personalities in AI design raise concerns about engagement tactics for kids, sparking lively discussions on ethical use and education.

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