Edtech Insiders

Avi Warshavsky, founder of MindCET and creator of the GESAwards, shares insights on global edtech communities. Jessica Hicklin from Unlocked Labs discusses innovative education systems for incarcerated learners, addressing unique needs that mainstream solutions overlook. Tom Gale of Solfeg.io emphasizes the importance of music education in fostering engagement and well-being, while showcasing how the platform has transformed learning through popular songs. Together, they explore AI's role in leveling the education playing field and the benefits of collaboration among regional partners.

Joy Chen, an Enterprise Account Manager at HeyGen and expert in educational technology, discusses the transformative impact of AI avatars on instructional design. She highlights how these interactive tools enhance student engagement and personalization in learning environments. Meanwhile, Daniel Pollack-Pelzner, a theater scholar and author, delves into Lin-Manuel Miranda's creative journey, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and collaboration in education. The conversation explores the intersection of technology and creativity in shaping artists' paths.

Anna Edwards, a policy expert from Whiteboard Advisors, dives into the implications of the federal shutdown on education programs like Head Start. Jim and Maurie Beasley from AI EdPro share their insights on classroom AI pilots, emphasizing teacher adaptation and low-cost solutions for improving student outcomes. Stacey Brook of College Essay Advisors discusses the ethical use of AI in admissions essays, encouraging students to maintain their authentic voice while navigating the process. The conversation highlights pressing challenges in both K–12 and higher education.

Deborah Howes, President of Howes Studio and a digital museum education pioneer, shares her insights on revolutionizing museum learning. She discusses how AI is reshaping museum archives and accessibility, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in EdTech. Deborah advocates for open-access museum data to enhance global learning and urges collaboration between tech firms and museums. She also highlights how museums can inspire better AI tutoring methods, urging them to adapt to remain relevant in the digital age.

Sari Factor, Vice Chair & Chief Strategy Officer at Imagine Learning, and Jason Fournier, VP of Product Management for AI & Data at Imagine Learning, join Caleb Hicks, CEO of SchoolAI, to discuss the future of education through AI. They delve into curriculum-informed AI, emphasizing the importance of grounding AI in high-quality instructional materials. Discussions also cover how AI can empower teachers and personalize learning experiences, addressing the need for safe and structured AI tools in classrooms. Plus, they explore the implications of OpenAI's latest advancements on media literacy.

Vanessa Castañeda Gill, CEO of Social Cipher and an autistic/ADHD Latina, teams up with Lucy Stevens, the Creative Director, to create engaging social-emotional learning games for neurodivergent youth. They discuss how their lived experiences shape game design, focusing on authentic representation and strengths-based approaches. The duo highlights feedback from players, emphasizing the importance of belonging in mitigating youth anxiety. They also explore the integration of their curriculum in schools, making a significant impact on students' self-advocacy and connection.

Janak Panchal, a teacherpreneur and co-founder of CoGuide, and Rishan Dutia, a young CTO who started developing edtech at age 12, share insights on revolutionizing classrooms with AI. They discuss how CoGuide enhances teaching through real-time analytics and language support, focusing on collaborative learning rather than one-on-one tutoring. Janak highlights the project’s origin from classroom needs, while Rishan emphasizes student privacy and engagement. Together, they envision a future where AI reduces teacher burnout and fosters deeper peer discussions.

Nick Chen, an edtech product veteran and founder of PlayMath.org, discusses the elements that make educational games effective, stressing the need for meaningful gameplay and immediate feedback. Jamie Candee, CEO of Edmentum, emphasizes the importance of career-connected learning, explaining how early exposure to various career pathways can enhance student engagement without pigeonholing them. They also delve into the rising use of VR for skilled trades training and the broader implications of current educational reforms and workforce needs.

In this enlightening discussion, Vikas Pota, an education entrepreneur, leads a cast of inspiring innovators transforming global education. Hamdi Tabbaa reveals how Abwaab blends human advising with AI for customized learning in MENA. Smita Deorah shares LEAD's innovative approach to multimodal learning in India, enhancing classroom engagement. Anna Sydoruk emphasizes the role of online education in providing stability during conflict in Ukraine. Rapelang Rabana discusses Imagine Worldwide’s impactful literacy programs in Africa, while Serdar Ferit showcases Lyfta's immersive storytelling to foster empathy. Aniekeme Umoh highlights Miva's growth in bridging Nigeria's tertiary education gaps.

Join creative powerhouses Scott and Julie Stewart, co-founders of Nurture, alongside entrepreneur Roger Egan and learning expert Musa Roshdy. They discuss transforming screen time into active learning through storytelling and humor, creating immersive experiences where kids become heroes. Discover how AI personalizes engagement and why beloved characters can enhance learning. They challenge the notion that fun and education can’t coexist, aiming to foster future-ready skills in children—all while ensuring play remains an integral part of learning.