Continuing our AI Mini Series, host Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Dr. Muhsinah Morris, the visionary behind Morehouse College’s Metaversity program, to discuss the transformative role of technology in creating equitable, accessible learning environments for all students. Dr. Morris shares her unique perspective on access, going beyond socioeconomic divides to include accessibility for neurodivergent and disabled learners.

The conversation touches on Dr. Morris' personal experiences with invisible disabilities, the challenges of discerning AI’s ethical boundaries, and the immense potential of AI-powered teaching assistants to support students beyond the traditional classroom setting. Whether it's overcoming the stigma of AI use or learning how educators can get hands-on with cutting-edge virtual tools, Dr. Morris advocates for the power of technology to close learning gaps and enhance student achievement.

Tune in to hear more about how AI, accessibility, and innovation are shaping the future of education, and gain insight from Dr. Morris on how educators can embrace these tools to create lasting impact.

Produced by Fullmind

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer chats with Alex Kotran, co-founder of aiEDU, about the current AI hype cycle in education. Alex discusses why we may be both overhyping and underhyping AI, the expected slow progress in the next three years, and the potential breakthroughs over the next eight.

He highlights the risks of AI replacing human jobs and stresses the need for adaptability and resilience in education. Alex also shares practical advice for educators on integrating AI literacy into their classrooms, focusing on effective use rather than expertise.

Tune in to gain insights on preparing students for a future where AI and human collaboration are crucial.

Produced by Fullmind

To kick off our AI in Education Mini Series, we dive deep into the future of education with Mike Yates from the Reinvention Lab at Teach for America. Yates shares his journey of working with tech giants like Google and AWS to empower students to transition from passive consumers of technology to active creators. He discusses the opportunities and challenges AI presents in education, from in-person hackathons to AI model-building tools, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining meaningful human connections in the learning process.

Educators looking to implement AI thoughtfully in their classrooms will appreciate Yates' practical advice on fostering creativity and building student-teacher relationships with the help of technology. Whether you're an educator, parent, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the evolving role of AI in education and the essential human elements that must remain at its core.

Produced by Fullmind

In our latest episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer is joined by Chad Aldeman, founder of Read Not Guess, as they unpack two massive topics; the national teacher shortage crisis and preparing educators in an effective way. Chad shares his perspective on training, recruitment, and retention and potential ways to take them to a higher level. Learn about boosting teacher pay, improving support and development, and using tech to make life easier for educators. Plus, find out how community support can make a huge difference.

Whether you’re in education or just passionate about supporting teachers, this episode gives you an idea of what can be done to make our schools better for everyone.

Additional Resources:

The Condition of Education 2022 - US Department of Education

Recruitment and Retention - Education Week

The National Center for Teacher Quality (NCTQ) - NCTQ

Sold a Story Podcast

Produced by Fullmind

On our latest Learning Can't Wait episode, out host Hayley Spira-Bauer is joined by Amanda Bickerstaff, Founder and CEO of AI for Education as they dive into how AI can be effectively used in today's classroom. This incredibly insightful conversation covers Amanda's personal and professional path, the quick trajectory of AI for Educaiton, and what the future may hold for the company. Hayley and Amanda also unpack how educators can use AI as a tool for many aspects of their day-to-day lives in addition to amplifying their impact in the classroom. Whether you're curious about AI's integrity, its ability to assist educators, or simply want to learn more about Amanda's story, this episode is a must-listen!

Produced by Fullmind

🌟 WELCOME TO SEASON 6 🌟

To kick off this season of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Siya Raj Purohit, from the Education Go-to-Market Team at OpenAI and general partner at Pathway Ventures, for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Siya shares her remarkable journey from being an ESL student to becoming a leading voice in the education and technology sectors. They dive deep into the transformative power of education, exploring how it can change lives and open up new opportunities. Sia also discusses the importance of making learning accessible, practical, and relevant in today's fast-paced world, offering listeners a unique perspective on how education can bridge the gap between different communities and empower individuals to succeed.

The conversation also covers Sia's innovative work on the digital divide, providing a glimpse into the future of education and work. As an expert in both technology and investing, Sia shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of engineering education and the critical skills needed in an AI-driven world. From the future of work to the role of AI in education, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, education, and social impact. Whether you're passionate about education, technology, or investing, you won't want to miss this conversation about the future of learning and the power of knowledge to transform lives.

Read Siya's Book: Engineering America: Teaching a Penguin How to Fly

Read Siya's post on Medium: Why You Should Start Your Career at an EdTech Startup

Produced by Fullmind

On this SPECIAL EPISODE of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer chats with chats with 8th graders from Montgomery County ESC during their lifestyle fair. From interests to student support to advice for incoming middle schoolers, these students use their real life experiences to inform thoughtful conversation. 

Tune in to gain insight on what it's really like to be a middle schooler in Montgomery County and what they hope the next round of middle schoolers remember.

Stay tuned for Season 6 of the Learning Can't Wait podcast coming soon!

Produced by Fullmind

🌟 SEASON 5 IS A WRAP! 🌟

From NYC to rural America, this incredibly powerful season covered it all. In today's episode, our host, Hayley Spria-Bauer recaps all that season 5 held.

Thank you to our wonderful, inspiring guests this season. Your work in the education space is critical to our youth's and our nation's futures!

And, thank you to YOU, our listeners! Stay tuned for what Season 6 will bring to the conversation! 🎧

Check out the Forbes article mentioned in this episode.

Produced by Fullmind

In this episode of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with  Emmanuel George, New York Regional Superintendent at Democracy Prep Public Schools. At the top of the episode, Emmanuel thanks his mother and other family members who helped form his values of humility, respect, and civic-mindedness. Democracy Prep has a large focus on direct participation in civics education from an early age. Students engage in activities that teach them to actively engage with and influence the political system. Partnerships with families and community organizations are also crucial, as these collaborations provide additional support and resources, addressing systemic challenges faced by many students.

When talking about finding great educators for Democracy Prep, Emmanuel emphasizes that a teacher's willingness to improve is more critical than their initial skill level. Additionally, the school focuses on whole child development, offering a well-rounded education that includes arts, athletics, and academic rigor. This comprehensive approach ensures students are academically prepared and equipped with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in life and contribute positively to their communities.

Produced by Fullmind

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, host Hayley Spira-Bauer continues her miniseries on rural education with Dr. Amy Azano, a professor at the School of Education at Virginia Tech and the founding director of Virginia Tech's Center for Rural Education. Dr. Azano shares her journey from a small town in the Shenandoah Valley to becoming a leading scholar in rural education. She discusses how her upbringing shaped her passion for supporting rural educators and students.

Dr. Azano highlights the unique challenges and opportunities in rural education, emphasizing the importance of valuing the cultural and geographical contexts of rural areas. She explains how this understanding should shape educational policies to better serve rural communities.

The conversation also covers the initiatives of the Center for Rural Education at Virginia Tech, including specialized courses, research, and outreach programs like a summer enrichment camp for high-achieving rural middle school students. Dr. Azano underscores the importance of equity in rural education, addressing funding disparities and fostering inclusive environments for all rural learners.

Produced by Fullmind

Learn more:

Teaching in Rural Spaces: Thriving in Classrooms, Schools, and Communities

Lua Project