Designing Schools

This week, we tackle a question everyone is asking - can AI be more empathetic than humans? From studies showing people preferring AI-generated therapy responses to the latest advancements in AI’s reasoning and research capabilities, we explore what this means for education, work, and society. We also discuss: The latest AI model updates, including  GPT-4.5  and  Perplexity’s Deep Research How AI...

AI, Power, and Politics: Who’s Really in Control? This week, we unpack the growing intersection of AI, politics, and economic shifts. With AI agents evolving into virtual coworkers, Sam Altman’s latest blog post raises urgent questions about the future of work, democracy, and power. We explore how AI is being used for government efficiency, the potential displacement of jobs, and why policymakers...

In this episode, we explore a troubling paradox - why do AI researchers and developers have such bold ambitions for machines while so many schools and institutions seem to have low expectations for people? We discuss key signals shaping the future of AI, from reasoning models to agents and innovators, and what this means for education, work, and society. Plus, OpenAI’s  Deep Research  and its pote...

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 th...

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 s...

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 adapta...

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 wa...

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 investmen...

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...

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...

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.

This week we cover: How ChatGPT has a new model called Canvas that integrates a Google Docs style experience We talk about the shift in language from computer to companion We discuss recent CA laws on deepfakes and what that means for ethics We share a paper with our favorite definition of AI literacy. Links to Resources AI Literacy Paper OpenAI Canvas Pre-Order Designing Schools The Book When you...

In this video, we talk with Superintendent Jerry Almendarez of Santa Ana Unified School District shares his journey in leadership, and discusses the five critical shifts leaders must make to adapt to AI and future changes, and how leaders can navigate the evolving landscape of AI by fostering a culture of trust, safety, and creativity. __________ Free Webinar: AI Simplified - 3 Steps to Secure You...

This episode covers Sam Altman's blog post,  The Intelligence Age , exploring how AI will transform education, healthcare, and shared prosperity. We discuss Mira Murati's departure from OpenAI, the rise of AI-driven startups, and the increasing role of AI in shaping our future workspaces and personal lives. Sample Prompt Template : "Help me understand the implications of [AI's potential in healthc...

What happens in a world where some students learn AI, and others don't? This week we share the data on the current landscape of how teens are using generative AI, and the role of schools to teach AI literacy. We share reflections from the launch of our WISE Framework, a human-centered approach to teaching AI to young people to foster decision making with integrity. We discuss the latest Canva...

This week we discuss the two big updates with Google's Notebook LM and OpenAI's much awaited model release. With AI models becoming more advanced we discuss the qualities that make humans irreplaceable. Watch Our Free AI MasterClass Click here to register on demand OpenAI - How Professional Writers are Using ChatGPT Link to Article

This week we discuss the two big events happening this week - Apple Intelligence and the AI special with Oprah. We share new initiatives being launched in higher education, and how 1000 autonomous AI agents created their own city. We also discuss how to assess credibility and contextualize the vast amounts of information shared daily. And we close with advice on personal branding in the age of AI,...

Welcome to our latest episode where we explore the integration of AI in our daily routines and its transformative impact on education and personal assistance. Today, we’ll uncover how AI tools are enhancing educational experiences and reshaping home environments with advanced robotics. Join us as we discuss the evolving relationship between technology and daily human interactions, paving the way f...

This week the dilemma with AI detectors continues as a theme in the news this time with growing debate over AI tools, such as paraphrasing detectors, and their impact on education. We explore recent surveys revealing parents' concerns about AI in schools and discuss how AI is shaping the future workforce. Finally, we touch on ethics, intellectual property, and the transformative changes coming...

In this new weekly series Stefan Bauschard and I share the what's happening now and where we might go in the future with AI and what that means for you. This week we discuss topics such as the integration of driverless technology in cities, the potential changes in teaching roles due to AI, and the importance of keeping up with technological trends. Keep The Learning Going Sign up for our free...

Welcome to 'Your Daily SPARK,' where each day we talk about strategies and skills to make you irreplaceable in a world integrated with AI. This week, today's spotlight is on Austin Kleon’s 'Steal Like an Artist.' This book talks about the idea that all creative work builds upon what came before—transforming and remixing existing elements into something new and uniquely personal...

Welcome back to ‘Your Daily SPARK,’ where each day we explore strategies and skills to make you irreplaceable in a world with AI. Today's focus is on a principle from Dale Carnegie's influential book, ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’ This principle is especially relevant today as we integrate AI tools like ChatGPT Teams and Microsoft365 Copilot into our workflows, enabling us to d...

In this episode, we explore how AI can help transform our chaotic schedules into structured, productive days using Nir Eyal's timeboxing strategy. Discover practical tools and methods to integrate AI effectively into your daily workflow for better focus and efficiency. **Sample Prompt Template**: "Hi ChatGPT, today I'm really struggling to keep up with my packed schedule and I feel ov...