AI Real Talk: The Curiosity Connection

In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Peter Swimm, a conversational AI technologist. Peter, the founder of Toilville, LLC, discusses his work in designing AI tools, the balance between automation and human touch, ethics in AI development, and shares his thoughts on the integration of AI in various industries. They also explore the cultural impacts of AI and its potential for creating accessible technology.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of Artificial Intelligence, Real Talk (AI with Eli), host Eli Davis sits down with McKenzie Price, Stanford grad, mom of two, and co-founder of the Two Hour Learning platform. McKenzie shares her journey in transforming education through AI-driven, personalized learning, and discusses the impact of life skills, socioeconomic challenges, and innovative teaching methods. The conversation covers the future of education, the role of teachers, and how AI can help unlock every child’s potential.

Key Topics:

• McKenzie’s background and the founding of Two Hour Learning
• The two-hour learning model and its academic results
• Integrating life skills and AI in the classroom
• Personalized learning for diverse student needs
• Addressing socioeconomic barriers and global impact
• Innovative teaching methods and real-world examples
• The evolving role of teachers and the promise of AI in education

Guest:
McKenzie Price, Co-founder of Two Hour Learning, education innovator, and advocate for personalized, AI-powered learning.

• (00:00) - AIRT - McKenzie Price

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones interviews Brent Zirkel, an elementary principal at Mary Welsh Elementary in Williamsburg, Iowa. They discuss how Brent is utilizing AI to create curriculum, making learning more engaging and transparent for both students and parents. Brent shares his experiences, challenges, and successes in integrating AI with education, including building websites, creating learning activities, and more. They also explore the importance of localized curriculum and the role of educators in the age of AI.

• Importance of curriculum being transparent
• Making sure parents know exactly what we are teaching. 
• Web sites for classroom. 
• If you put yourself out there in the public, it motivates you to create more and better things. 
• https://Raidersocialstudies.com 
• AI makes it easier to organize your thoughts and put it in a systemic way. 
• 80/20 in work usage. 
• Middle East Unit
• Gives kids deeper ways to understand what is going on in the world. 
• Not getting kids to understand facts and dates. 
• Helping kids understand and perceive the world and make judgments. 
• American values and patriotism are very important to our community. 
• When you arm teachers with good curriculum you can have good discussions. 
• Greater freedom in the discussion point because it is a discussion, not a “lesson”. 
• Layering with AI - Using multiple technologies that wouldn’t be possible with just one AI. 
• AI Tools used: Suno (music), ChatGPT (art & more), MagicSchool (make it relevant), SchoolAI, assessments
• AI Tools are thought partners. 
• How to be a transformative principal? Good Better Best, Never Let it rest till your good is better and your better is your best. 

About Brent Zirkel:

Brent Zirkel is currently the Elementary Principal at Mary Welsh Elementary in Williamsburg, Iowa, a school of about 650 students.  He also serves as the district ELL Director, Migratory Education Program Director, and Preschool Program Director. Brent has previously served as the Associate Principal at Williamsburg Jr/Sr. High School (7-12) and Fort Madison Middle School (4-8).  Brent taught Spanish at Fort Madison High School for 12 years where he was honored for 5 consecutive years with the Terry Branstad Inspiring Teacher Award for serving as a motivational force to some of Iowa’s top-performing high school students. He has a BA in Geography and Spanish Education, an MS in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Bilingual Education (ELL), and is certified as a Pre-K-12 Administrator and Special Education Supervisor.

Brent is also a co-founder of the Test Kitchen Educational Foundation: a non-profit organization that creates innovative after-school programming for rural communities in Iowa by getting youth excited about learning through engagement in academics, culinary arts, and valuable life skills.  

Brent is married to Michelle, a K-6 Media Teacher, and has two children, Brevin (16) and Bram (10). Brent enjoys spending time with his family. He is an avid fan of Survivor, the TV show, and is a true believer in progress through struggle. Brent sees education as the greatest opportunity to build a better tomorrow by positively impacting the lives of his students today.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Jethro Jones welcomes Adam Geller, the founder and CEO of Edthena. They discuss the new Observation Copilot tool, designed to streamline principals' feedback processes for teachers, and delve into the challenges and solutions regarding teacher observations. Adam shares insights on how this innovative tool bridges the gap, saving valuable time for principals while maintaining meaningful and timely feedback for teachers.

• Observation copilot. 
• Streamlining feedback to teachers 
• Where are your pain points in observing teachers. 
• Making sure chickenscratch notes turn into valuable prose and you can generate valuable ideas.
• Quick turnaround time - Observe today and get feedback today. 
• How is streamlining the observation process transformative
• Human powered notes from the principal. 
• Focus is on reorganizing, not on filling in blanks. 
• Computer’s job is to show the evidence that a principal inputs. 
• System to help a principal make a first draft. 
• This service is free for anyone to use spring 2025. 
• observationcopilot.com free for spring 2025

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Eli Davis welcomes his wife, Dr. Teaira McMurtry, to discuss the impact and use of artificial intelligence in education, personal life, and beyond. They delve into personal stories, professional insights, and practical advice for using AI tools effectively. The conversation covers AI's role in enhancing productivity, ethical considerations, and tips for beginners on how to get started with AI.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Dr. Annette Teasdell, a nationally recognized scholar of urban education and an acclaimed author. Dr. Teasdell shares her journey, experiences, and insights on dyslexia, the transformative power of education, and the use of AI technologies to support students. The conversation delves into the significance of representation in education, the impact of dyslexia on different populations, especially African Americans, and the essential tools and strategies to help students overcome learning challenges.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, Eli Davis welcomes Delquan Dorsey. They delve into their professional journeys, particularly focusing on Delquan's role in Jefferson County Public Schools, where he works on diversity, equity, and poverty initiatives. The conversation transitions to community development efforts, highlighting the importance of digital access and the challenges posed by the digital divide.

The second part of the episode centers on the impact of AI on modern society and its potential to bridge or widen the technological gap. Eli and Delquan explore the future of AI in education, emphasizing the need for AI literacy and critical thinking to navigate the evolving job market. They reflect on the importance of using their knowledge to support community growth.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode, host Eli Davis welcomes his longtime friend Dr. Marlena Ward Dodds. They explore artificial intelligence, particularly its impact on education and inclusivity, the challenges of online learning, and the digital divide. Dr. Dodds shares her insights and experiences with AI, both in higher education and in the broader context of learning and development. They also discuss the ethical implications and biases in AI, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and equitable access to technology.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this first episode of 'Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk,' host Jethro D. Jones introduces Eli Davis, an educator and AI enthusiast, who will be taking over the podcast. The episode delves into the transformative power of AI in education, discussing personal stories and the potential of AI to empower educators and students. Eli shares insights on how AI can act as a tool for organization and creativity, and highlights upcoming guests and topics.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

In this episode of A Vision for Learning, host Jethro Jones interviews Erik Francis, an expert in educational leadership and the creator of Maverik Education AI. Francis discusses the role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and critical thinking. Key points include:

• AI's Limitations: ChatGPT and other AI tools can sometimes produce inaccurate information due to the nature of their sourcing and synthesis processes.
• Depth of Knowledge (DOK):  Francis highlights the need for students to deeply understand their learning, moving beyond surface-level comprehension. He outlines how different levels of DOK correspond to various question types (e.g., "whether" questions indicate DOK 1, while "how" questions indicate DOK 2).
• AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement: Francis argues that AI should be used as a stimulus for learning, not a source of definitive answers. It can offer suggestions, but educators and students must ultimately use their own judgment and critical thinking skills.
• The Importance of Authenticity: Francis believes that the future of AI in education lies in authenticity. Educators and students should "be the brain" and use AI as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, their own thinking and decision-making processes.

• Misinterpretation about DOK and 
• We don’t know the source that chatGPT Is using. 
• OpenAI synthesizing all those hits in Google that gives back information that is not accurate. 
• How deeply do students have to comprehend their learning?
• You can’t just rely on a calculator. 
• The technology doesn’t make things less complex, it makes it easier to do that work.
• There are people who are going to say, “It’s good enough.” 
• Circle the verbs and underline the standards. 
• Assessing on skills and stuff (old way)  vs context (new way) 
• Whether - DOK 1
• How - DOK 2
• Supports - DOK 3
• Two or more - DOK 4
• “Worksheets don’t grow dendrites” - Marcia Tate
• Created this to help teachers expand their instructional talent. 
• AI is a stimulus, not a source. 
• Suggestions, not decisions. 
• Teaching is not just a science, it’s an art. 
• Rogers’ diffusion of innovation. 
• How do we know that our AI stuff is actually good? 
• The Future of AI is authenticity. 
• “Be the brain and make the impact.” 

About Erik Francis:

Erik Francis specializes in providing guidance, support and training to academic leaders and classroom teachers on how to develop rigorous learning environments and deliver engaging educational experiences that engage and encourage students to demonstrate different levels of thinking and understand and use their Depth of Knowledge (DOK) through inquiry and by questioning with good questions. He created Maverik Education AI.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

• Simplify and streamline technology
• Save teachers’ time
• Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
• Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.