Edtech Insiders

In this engaging discussion, Josh Reibel, CEO of Dreamscape Learn, shares insights on the transformative power of VR in education, emphasizing immersive storytelling in STEM subjects. Dr. Jennifer Cruz, Superintendent of Pendergast Elementary, highlights the real-world challenges teachers face while integrating AI. Thomas Thompson and Thomas Hummel from EduAid.ai reveal how AI can empower educators by personalizing learning and supporting lesson planning. The group also tackles the competitive landscape of AI in education and the implications of recent developments.

Join celebrated educators as they discuss innovative teaching strategies and the transformative power of technology in education. Qingyan Kang shares how she enhances language learning in her Mandarin classroom. Adam Geller highlights the role of AI and video coaching in professional development. Davina Lyons emphasizes resilience and storytelling to empower students. Wavell Blades discusses fostering belonging and citizenship through tech, while LeeAnn Caradine introduces young learners to coding and 3D printing, showcasing the future of education.

Sam Whitaker, Senior Director of Social Impact at StudyFetch, discusses the urgent need for AI education starting as early as age six. He emphasizes transforming AI into an engaging learning tool rather than a shortcut. Highlighting the innovative Sparky tutor, he explores how over a million student interactions reveal preferences for step-by-step math help. Sam advocates for equitable AI access, particularly in underserved communities, asserting that AI literacy should be as fundamental as reading or math for future success.

Jacob Kantor, Chief Dodo of EdTech, dives into the transformative impact of Google's launch of 50 AI tools for education. Matt Dalio, founder of Endless Studios, passionately advocates for teaching real-world skills through game design. Anne Trumbore discusses the balance of AI and learning environments in her book, 'The Teacher in the Machine.' The conversation also addresses the alarming $6B federal funding freeze affecting vital school programs and how ICE raids have led to an increase in absenteeism among Latino students. It's a critical examination of innovation against the backdrop of current challenges.

In this engaging conversation, Matt Miller, CEO and Co-Founder of OKO Labs, shares his vision for transforming K-12 education through AI. He discusses the critical need for small group learning solutions and how OKO harnesses AI to facilitate collaboration among students. Matt emphasizes AI’s role in supporting teachers rather than replacing them, ensuring personalized learning experiences. The podcast also explores OKO's swift growth and research-driven strategies, highlighting the importance of teamwork and communication in fostering student engagement.

Sarah DeWitt, Senior VP at PBS KIDS, shares insights on navigating funding cuts and the implications of AI in educational media. She highlights the organization's adaptability in providing quality content despite financial challenges. José Francisco Ochoa Ordóñez, co-founder of Academia del Océano, discusses democratizing access to marine education through innovative hybrid models. Both guests emphasize the need for critical engagement with technology in education while advocating for sustainable practices and community involvement in learning.

Jerome Pesenti, founder of Sizzle AI and an AI expert with 25 years in the field, discusses the transformative impact of AI on learning. He highlights how Sizzle AI turns study materials into personalized, bite-sized content, enhancing student engagement. Jerome shares his journey from big tech to focusing on education and explores the future of homework in the AI era. He emphasizes the potential of AI as a lifelong study companion, adapting learning paths to individual needs and fostering real understanding beyond mere answers.

Yesi Sevilla, Founder of Chalk Coaching, brings over 20 years of ed tech expertise and emphasizes the critical role of teacher support in early education. Ed Buckley and Marlee Strawn from Scholar Education discuss their innovative AI-powered 'dog bots' that assist both students and teachers. They highlight inclusive innovation for neurodiverse learners, the importance of actionable data, and the collaborative development needed in edtech. The conversation showcases how technology can transform early education while advocating for lifelong learning.

Matt Tower from Whiteboard Advisors joins the discussion about the evolving edtech landscape. They highlight the rise of AI use in education and workplaces, revealing that it's doubled in just two years. There's concern over OpenAI's push into colleges, with critics fearing increased cheating. Professors are now turning back to blue books and flipped classrooms to combat AI plagiarism. They also delve into how poor tech habits are impacting student performance and the vital role parents play in shaping post-high school choices.

Join Eric Swanson, Senior VP of Practice and Instructional Products, and Storey Sitwala, Senior Director of Product Management at Renaissance Learning, as they discuss the transformative role of EdTech. Discover how Renaissance Next is streamlining data for teachers and why personalization is key for both educators and students. They dive into the importance of unifying diverse educational tools and maintaining teacher autonomy in AI design. Learn about the synergy between UX and AI, enhancing educational outcomes through data-driven insights.