Designing Schools

In this episode, we explore the race for AI dominance and the emergence of China’s DeepSeek model, which has surprised many with its capabilities and efficiency. We discuss the shifting landscape of AI development, its geopolitical implications, and what it means for the future of global power. With insights from AI Superpowers by Kai-Fu Lee and recent discussions from Davos, we examine whether the U.S. can maintain its lead or if China’s rapid AI adoption will give it the edge. Plus, what this means for education, employment, and how societies should prepare for a world where AI is integrated into everything.

This episode was recorded on January 21st. In this episode, we discuss the power of writing as a tool for critical thinking and creativity in a rapidly changing world. From TikTok’s brief ban to historical parallels with today’s challenges, we explore how education must adapt to prepare students for an AI-driven future. Hear why schools should embrace current events and foster critical skills to stay relevant. Resources Mentioned Diary of a CEO Interview with Daniel Priestly LinkedIn Work Change Report 2025 The AI Bootcamp for Teams Experience

In this episode we share the breakthroughs and implications of AI in 2025, with a focus on AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) and AI agents in the workforce. The conversation highlights how these advancements are reshaping industries, from real estate to education, by streamlining tasks and enhancing human capabilities. You'll gain insights into how collaboration, intentionality, and adaptability are essential skills to build in 2025. Resources Mentioned Sam Altman's Blog: We Know How to Build AGI Free Masterclass: Take Charge and Lead Your Team with AI Book: Designing Schools: How Design Thinking Makes You Irreplaceable in the Age of AI

Industries like tech and healthcare are racing to integrate AI, yet education remains hesitant. In this episode, we explore the disconnect, the risks of inaction, and the strategies educators can use to bridge the gap. From student AI adoption stats to practical frameworks like WISE, we share insights that will inspire urgent action in classrooms and beyond. You can view our webinar here if you want to catch up on the latest AI updates here. Articles Mentioned Report: How can we upskill GenZ Article: Digital Native Myth Podcast: Marc Benioff Interview on VC20 Article: LinkedIn CEO - Top Interview Question

From handling tech fails during a presentation to Zapier's bold moves to train their team in AI. We explore how educators and professionals can start using AI effectively and rethink their approach to work and learning. 3 Key Takeaways: Learn by Doing: Start experimenting with AI tools for small tasks like drafting emails or organizing workflows. Make Time: Block time to learn AI—it’s an investment that pays off in efficiency and innovation. Adapt Your Strengths: Focus on skills AI can’t replace, like critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.

This week we discuss the widening gap between education and the workplace when it comes to AI. We discuss the importance of learning from people who have been studying this field and can help people understand the nuances vs falling prey to information that might not be correct.

How might we spread more awareness about the opportunities and challenge with generative AI? That's the question we discuss this week as we take a look at a variety of stories and reports on how teachers and students do not feel prepared for AI. Links to Articles Teachers Need Training How Students Really Feel About AI

In this episode we discuss the rise of Agentic AI. AI's that move beyond chatbots to AI's that can do things, see things, and as HeyGen say act like you, sound like you, and think like you. We contrast this with the latest lawsuit against Hingham High School where two parents are suing a teacher and others in the district for harming their child's college admissions process by punishing his use of AI. We zoom out and talk about the implications of emerging technologies and what happens when we don't create clarity and confidence in our communities about how to make decisions moving forward. Links to Articles HeyGen Announcement AI Court Case at Hingham High School Implication Wheel Activity Prompt Try this prompt with ChatGPT I want to explore the potential consequences of a topic using an implication wheel. Please do the following: Start with my given topic. Generate a first-level implication (a direct consequence). From the first-level implication, generate a second-level implication (a consequence of that consequence). Continue in this manner to explore third-level implications and beyond. Here is the topic I want to explore: [Your Topic Here] Let's go step-by-step. Please give me the first implication. Let us know what topics you'd like us to cover next.

In this episode, we explore the evolving definition of intelligence as AI technology advances. Joined by Dr. Michelle Ament, co-founder of the Human Intelligence Movement, we discuss the intersection of human-centered education, AI literacy, and the role of empathy and lived experience in shaping a future of shared prosperity. The conversation also highlights how design thinking can empower us to adapt and thrive in an AI-driven world. __________ Resources I Created For You: Personalized AI Roadmap: Take this quiz to find out how prepared you and your organization are for an AI world and get a free personalized AI plan https://designingschools.org/ai-quiz-start Free Webinar: AI Simplified - 3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future and Cut 8+ Hours From Your Week https://designingschools.org/aibwebinar Visit My Website www.designingschools.org

In this episode we discuss the prediction by Erik Brynjolfsson in that within five years, human intelligence will be perceived as limited and specialized compared to the expansive capabilities of AI systems. We discuss the latest updates and contextualize as to how this shift will affect and influence the field of education.