In this episode of the Reading Inspires podcast, host Erin Bailey sits down with Dr. Shannon Kane, an assistant clinical professor and literacy expert, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and literacy education. Dr. Kane shares her unique journey from international development to K-12 education and higher ed, and discusses how she and her colleagues began investigating the role of AI in teaching. The conversation delves into the varying comfort levels with AI among pre-service and in-service teachers, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating new technologies into the classroom. Dr. Kane emphasizes the importance of intentional training and ethical, critical engagement with AI, both for educators and their students.

The discussion covers practical applications of AI in education, such as supporting foundational reading skills, differentiating instruction for multilingual learners, and scaffolding the writing process. Dr. Kane and Erin address equity concerns, noting the need for accessible AI tools and thoughtful policy decisions to ensure all students benefit. They also reflect on the evolving capabilities of AI, the importance of teacher and student agency, and the critical role of feedback in reducing bias and improving technology. The episode concludes with Dr. Kane sharing how reading inspires creativity, connection, and courage, leaving listeners with a hopeful vision for the future of literacy and technology in education.

About Dr. Shannon Kane:
Shannon M. Kane, Ed.D., serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Teaching,Learning, Policy, and Leadership at the University of Maryland. Her academic and professional endeavors focus on literacy education, teacher preparation, and teacher professional growth. Dr. Kane’s career beganin the field of international development, where she worked on initiatives centered on women’s empowerment and access to education. She later joined the inaugural DC Teaching Fellows cohort, teaching in both traditional public and public charter schools in Washington, D.C. Her professional experience includes time as an instructional coach, curriculum developer, professional development consultant, school leader, teacher-researcher, and adjunct faculty member. Dr. Kane holds a doctorate in Reading, Writing, and Literacy from the University of Pennsylvania, as well as master’s degrees in International Development and in Elementary Education/TESOL. Her research examines multiple dimensions of literacy and teacher development, including K–12 literacy instruction with an emphasis on critical literacy, the preparation and mentoring of teachers as literacy practitioners, the integration of technology into literacy pedagogy, the role of classroom discourse in literacy learning, and the ways identity shapes literacy practices and experiences.