My EdTech Life

Teachers as Guardians: Responsible AI Use in the Classroom with Marce LancioniJoin me as I welcome Marce Lancioni, a passionate English teacher with over 30 years of experience from Argentina, to discuss the impact of AI on education. Marce shares her journey, from her initial excitement about AI to her growing concerns about responsible use and the need for informed decision-making in the classroom.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:13 - Marce's background and teaching experience03:21 - Marce's first impressions of AI and its impact on her teaching05:35 - Introducing AI to students and their reactions08:03 - Understanding the inner workings of AI and the importance of responsible use10:13 - The transformation of Marce's teaching practices with AI12:31 - The lack of national-level AI policies in Argentina and the need for proactive measures14:29 - The importance of teachers taking responsibility for AI use in the classroom16:33 - Marce's approach to incorporating AI tools in her lessons19:43 - Privacy concerns and the need for parental consent and transparency23:18 - The similarities in AI-related issues faced by educators in Argentina and the United States26:33 - Marce's experience with adapting international AI platforms for her students30:04 - The resurfacing of pre-existing issues in education due to the AI revolution32:31 - The importance of developing students' critical thinking skills in the age of AI35:55 - Concerns about AI-powered mental health apps for students and the need for caution40:59 - The significance of reducing risks and maintaining a balance when incorporating AI in the classroom44:57 - Marce's thoughts on her "EDUKryptonite" in the current state of education46:28 - The message Marce would put on a billboard to promote responsible use of technology50:06 - Marce's passion for teaching and learning and her dream of being a professional reader50:53 - Closing thoughts and appreciation for Marce's bold insights on AI in educationDon't miss this great conversation about AI's challenges and opportunities in education and educators' critical role in using it responsibly. If would you like to sponsor our show, please reach out to me at https://www.myedtech.life/contact/Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

As AI rapidly advances, educators grapple with how to adopt and use AI tools in K-12 classrooms responsibly. In this insightful expert panel hosted by Fonz of the My EdTech Life podcast, educational leaders and an AI EdTech founder dive deep into the ethics, challenges, and opportunities surrounding AI in education.Join the conversation with panelists Adam Sparks, Karle Delo, Ed Dieterle, Bonnie Chelette, and Maurie Beasley as they discuss key considerations for educators, including:→Protecting student data privacy and security with AI platforms →Challenges with AI companies' terms of service for schools →Best practices for AI professional development and teacher training →Overcoming barriers to AI adoption in schools →AI's potential impact on learning outcomes and critical thinking skills The panelists emphasized the importance of digital literacy, empowering teachers, using AI to enhance rather than replace human capabilities, and keeping students' best interests at the forefront. Each expert also shares their biggest concern, "AI EduKryptonite," in the current K-12 AI landscape.This discussion offers valuable insights and perspectives for any educator or administrator navigating the complex issues surrounding AI in schools. Don't miss this timely conversation about one of the most important issues in education today.Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:20 Meet the expert panelists08:10 Protecting student data with AI platforms20:10 AI terms of service challenges for schools27:12 AI professional development best practices35:08 Overcoming barriers to AI adoption42:54 AI's impact on learning outcomes & skills57:40 Panelists' biggest AI concerns - "AI EduKryptonite"1:09:13 Wrap-upWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Classroom Collaboration with MarkifyWelcome to another exciting episode of My EdTech Life! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Anthony Beckett, the brilliant young creator of the Markify App. At just 18 years old, Anthony has developed a powerful tool designed to enhance classroom engagement and accessibility. Join us as we dive deep into Anthony's journey, his inspirations, and how Markify is revolutionizing the way teachers and students interact in the classroom.Timestamps:0:30 - Introduction and greetings2:26 - Welcome Anthony Becket3:24 - Anthony's background and journey5:56 - The inception of Markify7:10 - Immersing in the education community13:12 - The challenges and growth of Markify17:09 - South by Southwest experience22:02 - Student-centered learning and feedback26:31 - The vision and capabilities of Markify34:54 - Collaboration and accessibility features37:45 - Demo of Markify features42:19 - Markify’s application in real classrooms43:54 - Anthony's future plans and feedback importance46:36 - Edu kryptonite: Weaknesses in the current state of education48:42 - Billboard message: Promoting student-centered learning51:28 - Hobbies and passion for STEMEnjoy this insightful conversation, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring EdTech content!Links:Visit Markify: https://markifyapp.com/Follow Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckett-anthony/Listen to more episodes: https://www.myedtech.life/Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Book Creator" Igniting Summer Reading with Stevie FrankJoin me in this engaging episode of My EdTech Life as he catches up with two-time guest Stevie Frank! Stevie, a digital innovator and tech coach from Indiana, shares her exciting project with Book Creator aimed at igniting summer reading. She also dives into the importance of creativity in the era of AI and discusses her adventurous approach to life.🔥 Stevie's Book Creator Project for Summer Reading [16:24]Discover how Stevie collaborates with Book Creator to create a summer reading project focusing on equity and accessibility. The project will be available nationwide and housed within Book Creator's Discover tab.🎨 Creativity in the Age of AI [28:08]Stevie and Fonz discuss the significance of creativity in the era of AI. They explore how Book Creator allows students to express their creativity and showcase their unique ideas, even if they don't consider themselves traditionally creative.🌎 Stevie's Adventurous Spirit [47:16]Get inspired by Stevie's adventurous outlook on life as she shares her favorite quote: "Ships are safe in the harbor, but that's not what ships were made for." She encourages stepping out of comfort zones and embracing new experiences.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction03:21 - Stevie's background and transition into EdTech16:24 - Stevie's Book Creator project for summer reading28:08 - The importance of creativity in the age of AI38:38 - Stevie's upcoming summer conference appearances45:43 - Stevie's "EDUKryptonite" (science)46:52 - Stevie's adventurous spirit and billboard quote48:00 - Stevie's passion for yoga and considering it as a full-time professionConnect with Stevie on Twitter @StevieFrank23 and stay tuned for the release of her inspiring Book Creator summer reading project!Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to catch more incredible conversations with educators, creators, and practitioners. Visit our website at www.myedtech.life to access all 277 episodes!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Beyond the Bulletin Board with Jed StefanowiczJoin me for an exciting conversation with Jed Stefanowicz, a lifelong educator, and author of the newly released book Beyond the Bulletin Board: Crafting a Culture of Content Creation. In this episode, Jed shares practical strategies and insights to help educators shift students from content consumers to content creators.Jed discusses the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking in the learning environment. He provides a framework that breaks down technology integration into four key domains: instruction, operation, creativity, and wellness. Jed emphasizes the power of capturing student thinking and giving them authentic ways to demonstrate their learning.Whether you're a classroom teacher looking for new strategies or an administrator aiming to support digital literacy, this episode offers valuable takeaways. Discover how to align technology with curriculum, provide multiple pathways for students to express themselves, and make learning visible to parents and the community.Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a meaningful reminder of why we do what we do as educators. Let's go "Beyond the Bulletin Board" together!Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:31 - Jed's background in education05:36 - The story behind "Beyond the Bulletin Board"11:45 - Overcoming obstacles to shift educator mindsets19:08 - Empowering student voice and choice22:24 - Cultivating a culture of innovation and risk-taking30:40 - Capturing student thinking and making learning visible37:38 - Importance of community partnerships46:12 - Key takeaways from the book51:54 - Where to find "Beyond the Bulletin Board"55:56 - Jed's current EduKryptonite56:51 - Billboard message58:19 - Hobbies and creative outlets1:00:43 - Closing thoughtsJed's Book on Amazon: Beyond the Bulletin Board: Crafting a Culture of Content Creation--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Balancing AI Innovation and Student Privacy with Michelle L.In this episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome Michelle L. from the UK to discuss the complex landscape of AI in education. As an educator and consultant advising schools on EdTech acquisitions, Michelle brings a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation. Together, we talk about the hype surrounding AI, the potential risks and benefits for students and teachers, and the critical importance of data privacy and security in the EdTech space.Michelle shares her perspective on the rapid adoption of AI tools, the challenges of meaningful consent, and the need for greater transparency from EdTech companies. She and Fonz also explore the potential impact of AI on the teaching profession, the systemic issues driving teacher burnout, and the importance of proceeding with caution as we navigate this new frontier in education.Time Stamps:00:00 - Introduction01:57 - Michelle's background in education and EdTech consulting04:21 - Initial reactions to ChatGPT and the AI hype08:29 - Current experiences with AI in UK schools11:26 - The importance of defining AI and referencing research15:01 - Concerns about AI outsourcing and replacing teachers19:27 - The lack of research on AI's impact on student learning22:39 - The Trojan horse of AI in education25:39 - Engaging students vs. ensuring their learning with AI tools28:58 - The opaque nature of EdTech companies and data sharing34:20 - The difficulty of regulating AI in schools38:35 - The potential for student-driven lawsuits against EdTech42:20 - EdTech companies preying on teacher burnout46:36 - The need for government oversight of EdTech privacy and security51:07 - Concerns about using student photos and data in AI systems56:36 - Wrapping up the conversation59:01 - Michelle's edu-kryptonite: school uniforms1:00:16 - Billboard message: "Move slowly and fix things."1:01:52 - Hobby turned profession: Tarot reading for business--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Sofia De Jesus, an associate program manager at CMUCS Academy, CSTA Equity Fellow, and author, discusses AI in education. Topics include data privacy, bias, equity, and responsible implementation of AI tools. Exploring LAUSD chatbot release, transparency, teacher training, student needs, grifting in AI education, and ensuring responsible AI implementation in schools.

In this episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome back Shira Moskovitz to talk about her dual role as a special education teacher and technology coach. Shira shares her hands-on experience empowering students and teachers through innovative tech tools and project-based learning.We discuss the importance of providing accessible learning opportunities for all students, including emerging bilinguals and those with diverse needs. Shira and I talk about strategies for supporting teachers in adopting new technologies and overcoming resistance to change. She emphasizes the value of allowing students to showcase their learning through various modalities and creative projects.Throughout our discussion, we cover topics such as professional development, math manipulatives, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). We highlight the need for ongoing training and support to ensure teachers feel confident in integrating technology effectively.Join us for this informative discussion that will inspire you to embrace innovative teaching practices and create inclusive learning environments. Tune in now to gain valuable insights and practical tips from an experienced educator passionate about transforming education through technology.Key Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and welcoming Shira Moskovitz04:27 - Shira's background and transition into education07:14 - Balancing roles as a special education teacher and technology coach11:42 - Observations on teachers' professional development needs 17:11 - Empowering students through project-based learning and creative expression23:08 - Addressing accessibility and supporting diverse learners 29:35 - The importance of providing access to learning tools for all students35:02 - Overcoming resistance to using math manipulatives and innovative strategies41:19 - Shira's EdTech kryptonite, billboard message, and dream hobby--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Beyond the Hype: The Overlooked Aspects of AI in EducationJoin me as I dive deep into AI in education with the brilliant Dr. Nneka McGee on this episode of My EdTech Life. Dr. McGee's passion for educational equity and her balanced approach to AI implementation is truly inspiring. We kick off the conversation by learning about Dr. McGee's remarkable journey in education, from her math teacher roots to her transformative work as a district leader. She shares her philosophy of "cautious advocacy" when it comes to AI, emphasizing the need for transparency, data privacy, and teacher empowerment.Dr. McGee offers practical insights from her experience leading AI integration in the San Benito school district. Her Greyhound Astro project is a model for how to thoughtfully pilot AI tools with teacher input at the center. We also explore the pressing challenges around student data and the importance of vetting EdTech partnerships carefully.Throughout our discussion, Dr. McGee underscores the potential for AI to bring more humanity to education. Her vision is one where AI supports greater creativity, personalization, and equity for all students. She reminds us that while AI is a powerful tool, it's ultimately about how we choose to harness it in service of student success.Don't miss this episode packed with wisdom and inspiration whether you're an educator, administrator, or simply passionate about AI's role in education.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction 2:10 - Dr. McGee's background and journey in education8:48 - The positive impact of ChatGPT and generative AI12:14 - Being a cautious advocate for AI in education17:40 - Concerns around student data privacy and third-party access 22:28 - Current state of AI implementation in schools26:23 - Importance of transparency from EdTech companies32:43 - Dr. McGee's approach to AI implementation in the San Benito school district43:06 - Bringing humanity back to education with AI47:27 - How to connect with Dr. McGee50:55 - Edu-Kryptonite: Perfectionism 53:00 - Billboard message: All students can achieve success53:40 - Passion for creativity in service of othersWant to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

Transforming College Curricula One Corporate Project at a TimeHave you ever wondered how we can bridge the gap between higher education and the skills companies are looking for in new hires? In this live replay, I speak with Sally Ricker, CEO of The Project-Based Learning Company, about her innovative online platform that connects university students with real-world corporate projects. Through Sally's program, students develop critical 21st-century skills like collaboration, communication, creativity, and problem-solving by working on projects sourced directly from major companies. The top projects are showcased in a journal that corporate recruiters can use to find the best-emerging talent. Sally shares her vision of transforming higher education curricula to focus on applied learning experiences that prepare students to excel from day one in their careers.Whether you're an educator looking to bring more real-world relevance to your courses, a student seeking meaningful learning opportunities, or a corporate leader interested in cultivating your future workforce, you'll find valuable insights in this conversation. TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Introduction 2:30 - Sally's background in STEM education and the CAPS program7:03 - Making real-world connections in education 10:36 - Bridging the skills gap between higher ed and corporate needs13:43 - Sally's vision for an online corporate project portal17:59 - The power of portfolios and hands-on learning 22:57 - How the corporate project portal will work27:27 - Creativity as a crucial skill in the age of AI32:30 - Pilot programs and future plans for expansion 37:27 - Reimagining the college curriculum around projects41:10 - Creating a showcase of top student projects 43:05 - Providing equitable access and opportunity 46:37 - Where to learn more and get involved48:07 - Fonz's closing questions for SallyWhat did you think of Sally's project-based learning platform? How do you think real-world projects could enhance the university experience? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6066160593272832--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportPeel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show