Edtech Insiders

Claire Zau, Partner and AI lead at GSV, shares her insights on the dynamics of AI in education. The discussion previews the ASU GSV Conference and its focus on AI innovations. ChatGPT hits a staggering 400 million users, underscoring AI's expanding role. They delve into Google's Career Dreamer, designed to personalize educational journeys, and Chegg’s lawsuit against Google, questioning AI's influence on SEO. Zau also discusses the immersive potential of VR in classrooms and offers sage advice for EdTech entrepreneurs looking to integrate AI effectively.

Bjorn Billhardt, CEO of Abilitie and a seasoned expert in leadership development, shares insights on the future of business education. He discusses how AI is revolutionizing leadership training with real-time simulations that enhance decision-making and judgment. Bjorn emphasizes the importance of transfer skills over rote memorization and highlights the growing trend of mini MBAs. The conversation also explores AI's role in boosting social learning and improving essential management skills, redefining what it means to learn in the corporate world.

This week, the hosts tackle exciting AI developments reshaping education, like deep reasoning models and AI-powered learning companions. There’s a shake-up at BrainPop, hinting at significant strategic shifts in the edtech landscape. The decline of gamification raises questions about user engagement. Additionally, they discuss the tight job market in edtech, exploring challenges and opportunities amid hiring slowdowns. Listeners can expect insights from the Bay Area EdTech Summit and a look at future innovations coming to the industry.

Pierre Dubuc, co-founder and CEO of OpenClassrooms, leads a conversation on the future of education and job training. He discusses how degree apprenticeships are replacing traditional internships, providing students with real work experience. AI is reshaping education, enabling personalized learning and enhancing job placement. Dubuc highlights the disconnect between higher education and employment, advocating for programs that integrate education with career paths. Learn how OpenClassrooms is tackling these challenges and paving the way for accessible, career-focused learning.

In this insightful discussion with Libby Hills, who leads EdTech initiatives at the Jacobs Foundation and co-hosts the EdTechnical podcast, the conversation covers vital trends shaping education technology. They delve into OpenAI's new research tool, Deep Research, and the competitive landscape created by DeepSeek AI. The impacts of federal funding cuts on educational research and tutoring services are also exposed. Additionally, they examine ongoing learning losses post-COVID and the importance of adapting educational approaches to leverage AI effectively.

Adam Franklin, a former high school history teacher and edtech entrepreneur, discusses his transition from Nearpod to founding StudyBuds, a platform for AI-powered teachable agents. He highlights how these agents foster deeper engagement by allowing students to learn through teaching. Adam critiques traditional assessments and explains how AI can improve them. The conversation dives into the potential of AI to co-create with students, offering them a sense of agency. Lastly, he emphasizes the exciting role of venture studios in advancing AI technologies in education.

Jeff Maggioncalda, former CEO of Coursera, led the company to over 160 million learners. He discusses how Coursera is evolving its AI-powered content, making learning more accessible and personalized. The conversation highlights the rise of generative AI in online education and its impact on workforce upskilling. Jeff shares insights on balancing AI innovation with academic integrity and the importance of adapting education for the skills-based economy. His vision for the future integrates AI seamlessly into learning, benefiting both professionals and students alike.

Matt Kennard, CEO of BetterLesson, shares his insights from a rich background in finance and education. He discusses the transformative power of High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) in K-12 education, emphasizing their role in enhancing teaching and student outcomes. Kennard highlights how data and AI can personalize learning, improve teacher retention, and support Career and Technical Education (CTE). He advocates for educators to regain control over EdTech to better shape the future of teaching.

Tigran Sloyan, Co-founder and CEO of CodeSignal and former tech leader at Google, dives into the future of hiring. He argues that resumes are outdated and highlights how AI and simulations can create skills-based assessments that reduce bias. Tigran shares insights on Bloom’s Two Sigma Problem and the role of generative AI in providing real-world training for various roles. He also discusses the challenges universities face in adapting to industry needs, advocating for stronger partnerships between education and the private sector.

Jomayra Herrera, a partner at Reach Capital, shares her insights on the evolving landscape of educational technology. The discussion dives into OpenAI's new O3 model and its implications for artificial general intelligence. Herrera also highlights the staggering $500B Stargate Project aimed at AI infrastructure. The impacts of a potential TikTok ban on digital learning are examined, as well as the surprising hiring surge in U.S. schools despite decreased enrollment. The episode rounds off with the significant cancellation of student debt and its effects on education.