ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged

Dr. Yampolskiy is a Latvian computer scientist who has warned of the possibility of existential risk from advanced artificial intelligence, and has advocated research into "boxing" artificial intelligence. Dr. Yampolskiy is mostly known for his work on AI safety, cybersecurity and his many published books. In this conversation, Professor Roman V. Yampolskiy discusses the critical aspects of AI safety, the unpredictability of AI responses, and the implications of AI in education and the workforce. He emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and risks, particularly in relation to human traits and the potential for AI to impact purpose and meaning in life. The discussion also touches on the future of jobs, the role of AI in medicine, and the possibility of personalized AI tutors in education. In this conversation, Dave and Roman V. Yampolskiy, PhD, explore the evolving landscape of education in the context of artificial intelligence. They discuss the importance of human skills, the need for a re-evaluation of learning priorities, and the risks associated with AI development. The conversation delves into the role of verification in AI outputs, the future of AI in education, and the philosophical implications of living in a potentially simulated reality. Throughout, they emphasize the necessity of adapting educational practices to prepare future generations for a world increasingly influenced by AI.

ABOUT ROMAN

Roman V. Yampolskiy holds a PhD degree from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University at Buffalo. There he was a recipient of a four year NSF (National Science Foundation) IGERT (Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship) fellowship. Before beginning his doctoral studies Dr. Yampolskiy received a BS/MS (High Honors) combined degree in Computer Science from Rochester Institute of Technology, NY, USA. After completing his PhD dissertation Dr. Yampolskiy held a position of an Affiliate Academic at the Center for Advanced Spatial Analysis, University of London, College of London. In 2008 Dr. Yampolskiy accepted an assistant professor position at the Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, KY. He had previously conducted research at the Laboratory for Applied Computing (currently known as Center for Advancing the Study of Infrastructure) at the Rochester Institute of Technology and at the Center for Unified Biometrics and Sensors at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Yampolskiy is also an alumnus of Singularity University (GSP2012) and a visiting fellow of the Singularity Institute.Dr. Yampolskiy's main areas of interest are behavioral biometrics, digital forensics, pattern recognition, genetic algorithms, neural networks, artificial intelligence and games. Dr. Yampolskiy is an author of over 100 publications including multiple journal articles and books. His research has been cited by numerous scientists and profiled in popular magazines both American and foreign (New Scientist, Poker Magazine, Science World Magazine), dozens of websites (BBC, MSNBC, Yahoo! News) and on radio (German National Radio, Alex Jones Show). Reports about his work have attracted international attention and have been translated into many languages including Czech, Danish, Dutch, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Romanian, and Spanish.

The team from the Science Center of Iowa joins us to discuss various topics ranging from the impact of weather on museum operations to the fascinating world of pterosaurs and the innovative use of AI in education. They explore the ethical implications of AI, the importance of intellectual property in AI-generated content, and the role of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills. The conversation emphasizes the need for human interaction with AI tools and the importance of teaching students how to effectively communicate their ideas to these technologies. In this conversation, Jolie Pelds and Dave discuss the transformative role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of engaging learning goals, innovative methods for student interaction, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI technology. They explore how AI can enhance project-based learning, assist in data analysis, and foster community engagement while also addressing the environmental impact of AI tools. The discussion highlights the need for educators to adapt to new technologies and create a supportive learning environment for both students and teachers.

ABOUT LINDY

Lindy Trout Turnis is the Innovation Manager at the Science Center of Iowa. She designs and facilitates both high-tech and low-tech, hands-on experiences for visitors in the Innovation Lab, sparking creativity and exploration.

ABOUT JOLIE

Jolie Pelds is the Director of Innovative STEM Teaching at the Science Center of Iowa. She leads programs that connect students and adults with hands-on science learning, focusing on real-world applications and innovative approaches.

ABOUT MARISSA

Marissa Herzberg serves as the Manager of Innovative STEM Teaching at the Science Center of Iowa. She partners with schools and educators to bring inquiry-based, hands-on learning experiences into classrooms and inspire curiosity through STEM.

TeachAi expert explains why teachers will still matter Veronica discuss the evolving role of AI in education, the challenges educators face in adapting to rapid technological changes, and the importance of core skills for teachers. They explore concerns about over-reliance on AI tools, the implications of AI in grading and IEPs, and the necessity of human feedback in the learning process. The discussion also touches on cultural nuances, ethics in AI, and the significance of maintaining human interaction in educational settings. Veronica and Dave explore the intersection of storytelling, technology, and education. They discuss the emotional connections we have with characters in stories, the role of technology in enhancing learning experiences, and the importance of critical thinking in an age dominated by AI. They also touch on the challenges faced by educators in adapting to new technologies, the human element in teaching, and the future of education in a post-pandemic world. The conversation concludes with insights into career readiness and the innovative work being done in computer science education.

ABOUT VERONICA

Veronica Ellis is a researcher, content developer, and educator specializing in educational technology and STEM learning. As Content Development and Research Manager at TeachAI, Veronica designs resources that help students and educators navigate emerging technologies, while working with stakeholders to determine their efficacy. Her work integrates computer science concepts, ethical AI considerations, and instructional practices to support K-12 learning. Previously, she taught middle school science in Chicago Public Schools, where she led professional learning centered on quality teaching for English Learners. Veronica is passionate about making STEM education accessible, ensuring that educators and students have the tools to critically and ethically engage with emerging technologies.

Is it safe to fly? Recent incidents, media influence, and systemic concerns. Miles O'Brien discusses the current state of aviation safety, reflecting on recent incidents and the underlying statistics. They explore the roles of various organizations like the FAA and NTSB in ensuring safety, the importance of timely investigations, and the normalization of deviance in aviation practices. The discussion also touches on the media's influence on public perception of aviation safety and the complexities of the aviation system, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive measures to maintain safety standards.

Learn more about Miles on his website: https://milesobrien.com/

Connect with Miles on Twitter at https://twitter.com/milesobrien

Watch Mile's conference session from Science is Cool 8: https://www.thepocketlab.com/video/scic8/miles-obrien

ABOUT MILES

Miles O'Brien is a veteran, award-winning journalist who focuses on science, technology, aerospace, and the environment.

He is the science correspondent for PBS NewsHour, a producer and director for the PBS science documentary series NOVA, and a correspondent for the PBS documentary series FRONTLINE and the National Science Foundation Science Nation series.

For nearly seventeen of his thirty-two years in the news business, he worked for CNN as the science, environment and aerospace correspondent and the anchor of various programs, including American Morning.

While at CNN, he secured a deal with NASA to become the first journalist to fly on the space shuttle. The project ended with the loss of Columbia and her crew in 2003 – a story he told to the world in a critically acclaimed sixteen-hour marathon of live coverage.

Prior to joining CNN, he worked as a reporter at television stations in Boston, Tampa, Albany, NY and St. Joseph, MO. He began his television career as a desk assistant at WRC-TV in Washington, DC.

O'Brien is an accomplished pilot and is frequently called upon to explain the world of aviation to a mass audience. He has won numerous awards over the years, including a half-dozen Emmys, and a Peabody and DuPont for his coverage of Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath.

In February of 2014, a heavy equipment case fell on his forearm while he was on assignment. He developed Acute Compartment Syndrome, which necessitated the emergency amputation of his left arm above the elbow.

Born in Detroit and raised in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI, he is based in Washington, DC. He has a son at the US Naval Academy and a daughter at Davidson College in North Carolina. He was a history major at Georgetown University.

Exploring technology, AI, simulations, curriculum challenges, and education's future. Professor at Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, Nancy Ruzycki discusses with us the current state of hands-on learning in education, the role of simulations, the impact of AI, and the challenges teachers face with curriculum and technology. Nancy and Dave explore the balance between hands-on experiences and simulations, the importance of data privacy in AI, and the need for teachers to adapt to new technologies while maintaining educational standards. They also discuss the evolving role of AI in education, emphasizing the need for a systematic approach to teaching and learning. They explore how AI can personalize education, the importance of domain-specific models, and the challenges of integrating AI into classrooms. The discussion also touches on the balance between convenience for teachers and effective learning outcomes for students, highlighting the need for better support and training for educators. Nancy's flyer for links and resources for teachers: https://hubs.ly/Q02GFBzY0 Free AI and data science curriculums https://lor.instructure.com/?q=ruzycki Links to free resources and vendors/partners with AI and data science: https://docs.google.com/document/d/129B8CvI0XmenUYoCiC89YBXWY0FP_wPq/edit

Engaged Quality Instruction Through Professional Development: https://equipd.mse.ufl.edu

UF AI Teachers in residence: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15u23tKqgq_ZxcI9B5WCX9vxLX7rQcd57/edit

ABOUT NANCY

Dr. Nancy Ruzycki is an Associate Instructional Professor within the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Her research work is in creating teacher professional development for complex topics in STEM using system thinking and a conceptual modeling pedagogical framework. She also studies mentorship in STEM organizations and informal learning settings. She also holds an undergraduate degree in Chemistry Education and has National Board Certification for Physics. Ruzycki currently works upskilling teachers in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, and has written the Middle School Career and Technical Education Frameworks for AI and Data Science, and the High School Frameworks for Data Science in the state of Florida. She has received over $12 million dollars in funding for her work.

Mentorship, project-based education, real-world science, and fostering curiosity. In this conversation, Taniece Thompson-Smith, seasoned educator and teacher of the years, discusses the importance of work-life balance for educators, the significance of engaging students in science, and the need for civic science literacy. Taniece shares her experiences as the Texas Teacher of the Year, emphasizing the role of curiosity in learning and the importance of teaching strategies that cater to diverse learners. They also reflect on the value of teaching across cultures and the necessity of project-based learning in science education. In this conversation, Taniece Thompson-Smith and Dave discuss the importance of project-based learning and real-world problem-solving in education. They emphasize the need for experiential learning, mentorship, and building a supportive teaching community. The conversation highlights how creating equitable learning experiences can foster curiosity and wonder in students, making science more relatable and accessible. Taniece shares her experiences in the classroom, illustrating how hands-on activities and community involvement can enhance student engagement and understanding of scientific concepts. Linktree: https://linktr.ee/taniecetsmith Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552742454637 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniecetsmith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniecetsmith Twitter: https://x.com/taniecetsmith24 ABOUT TANIECE

Taniece Thompson-Smith is a seasoned educator with 14 years of teaching experience and a military spouse for 19 years. She has taught in seven diverse school districts across the United States, Jamaica, and Japan, highlighting her versatility and dedication to education. Thompson-Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in computer science from Brooklyn College, a graduate-level teacher certification from Rider University, and a Master of Arts in teaching with a specialization in multicultural and social justice education from California State University, Fresno.

Currently serving as a fifth-grade science teacher at Stafford Elementary in Abilene, Texas, Thompson-Smith is committed to providing enriching learning experiences that foster academic development. She actively collaborates with community members and science experts to create interactive learning opportunities for her students. Additionally, she leads district-level and international professional development workshops that integrate science with language arts, emphasizing her dedication to cross-disciplinary education.

Thompson-Smith's passion for education is further evidenced through her mentorship of students. Her outstanding teaching abilities have been recognized through various awards, including Texas Teacher of the Year. Her excellence in teaching has also been recognized by prominent figures such as First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. She was honored at their first State Dinner, honoring educators.

Penn State STEM Educational Specialist shares her teaching strategies.

Dave and Stephanie explore the evolving landscape of STEM education in elementary schools, emphasizing the new STEELS standards in Pennsylvania and the unique challenges that early-grade teachers face when teaching science. They discuss the importance of technology integration, hands-on learning, and fostering curiosity to make science more relevant and engaging for young learners.

A key theme of the conversation is the role of failure in STEM learning—how embracing mistakes can lead to creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. They highlight the need for professional development and administrative support to help teachers feel confident in delivering inquiry-based, active learning experiences.

The discussion also touches on: ✅ The impact of coding and technology in early STEM education ✅ How controlled chaos in the classroom fosters deeper learning ✅ The importance of teacher advocacy in shaping better science education policies ✅ Strategies to equip young students with scientific literacy skills for the future

NSTA 2025 Philadelphia workshop Stephanie is hosting: Department of Navy's Seaworthy STEM: From PreK-12 to STEM Careers Friday, March 28 • 2:40 PM - 3:40 PM Pennsylvania Convention Center - 120 A Seaworthy STEM in a Box revolutionizes PreK-12 STEM education with Dept. of Navy and NGSS activities, fostering science sensemaking and engineering skills. Designed for versatility, these kits and curriculum accommodate various grades and settings. Session lead by DON staff & STEM educators. TAKEAWAYS: Attendees will discover how to integrate Navy-aligned STEM activities into diverse educational environments. With expert-led workshops and comprehensive resources, educators can cultivate problem-solving skills in students, empowering them for future success in science and engineering. SPEAKERS: Melissa Thompson (Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship: No City, No State), Stephanie Klixbull (Penn State University: No City, No State), Debbie Reynolds (Commonwealth Charter Academy: Homestead, PA), Tom Jenkins (National Museum of the United States Air Force: Dayton, OH), Nathan Diehl (Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division: Bethesda, MD) ABOUT STEPHANIE

Stephanie Klixbull is an elementary educator who spent over nine years in the classroom, educating students in science, math, and engineering. Stephanie taught a special STEAM class called IDEA Lab to students in preschool through fifth grade in South Carolina. In 2018, Stephanie received the Max E. Lundquest Outstanding Young STEM Educator Award from the International STEM Educator Association for her work in early childhood STEM curriculum. She was also awarded as the state's Teacher of the Year from the state of South Carolina Independent Schools Association, 2019. Recently, Stephanie completed a national fellowship through the Department of Energy in Washington D.C. as a Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow, 2021-2022. Stephanie was placed with the Department of Defense at Carderock Naval Surface Warfare Center. During her fellowship, Stephanie developed hands-on elementary science lessons and directed educator professional development relative to DoD STEM careers and the realistic engineering solutions centered around the Navy. At Penn State University Stephanie's current role as the Elementary STEM Educational Specialist, (K-8) is to work with research science and engineering faculty to develop and implement professional development opportunities for K-12 STEM educators. Stephanie is thrilled to also be contributing to support elementary science practices and enhance professional development opportunities for all teachers.

BS - Elementary Education - Music & Special Education - University of Northern Colorado M. Ed. STEM Education - Citadel College

Lessons and inspiration from Chrissy and Jay Kleburg on climate impact, wildlife, & conservation.

Documentary producers and conservationists, Jay and Chrissy discuss their journey walking the Texas coastline, the challenges they faced, and the insights gained from their documentary 'Chasing the Tide.' They explore the importance of local ecosystems, wildlife conservation, and the educational impact of their work, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental issues across the globe. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in wildlife discovery and the significance of high-quality educational resources for engaging students in nature. In this conversation, Jay Kleberg discusses the intersection of climate change, local news, and community action in Texas. He highlights the economic implications of environmental issues, the importance of local education in fostering awareness, and the need for storytelling to connect people with their environment. The conversation also touches on the value of oysters in ecosystems and the future projects aimed at exploring and protecting coastal areas.

About the learning resources:

To connect students to the coast, Chasing the Tide teamed up with Anne Marie Fayen, curriculum developer, and PBS LearningMedia to make short film clips and discussion guides aligned to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills and Next Generation Science Standards in both English and Spanish. The learning resources are intended for classroom teachers, informal educators, parents, and learners in grades 3-8 who are looking for science-based learning materials. These resources are available at chasingthetideseries.com/learn and on PBS LearningMedia:

https://klru.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/conserving-aplomado-peregrine-falcons-video/chasing-the-tide/,

https://klru.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/rediscovery-red-wolf-dna-video/chasing-the-tide/

https://klru.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/endangered-sea-turtle-kemps-ridley-video/chasing-the-tide/

About Chasing the Tide:

Conservationists Chrissy and Jay Kleberg hiked Texas' 370 miles of barrier islands over 21 days in October 2023. They embarked on this journey to learn more about the rate of change occurring on the coast, hear from residents and experts about its rich diversity of wildlife, habitats, and history, and understand what the future holds. They captured the adventure on film and produced a six-part series for PBS called Chasing the Tide, which is currently on television stations across the nation and streaming. In addition to the series, they also published a natural history and adventure book that details the journey, production process, and beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast. As part of the project, Jay and Chrissy also teamed up with Anne Marie Fayen, curriculum developer, and PBS LearningMedia to provide short clips and discussion guides for grades 3-8.

The Chasing the Tide book:

https://chasingthetideseries.com/book

ABOUT CHRISSY

Chrissy is a former wildlife field biologist and amateur photographer. She has conducted avian research and reintroduction work with the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Florida, and the Peregrine Fund in Hawaii, Florida, New Mexico, and Texas. She is a co-producer and co-director of the documentary series Chasing the Tide, airing across the nation on PBS stations and streaming.

ABOUT JAY

Jay is the Executive Director of the Gulf of Mexico Trust and previously served as Associate Director of Texas Parks Wildlife Foundation. He co-produced the film Deep in the Heart: A Texas Wildlife Story and was Associate Producer of the documentary The River and the Wall. He is a co-producer and co-director of the documentary series Chasing the Tide, airing across the nation on PBS stations and streaming.

Art, creativity, ai, and hands-on STEM reshape K-12 education Teacher and author, Tim Needles joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of education, particularly the integration of AI and its implications for teaching and learning. They explore the importance of local engagement in education, the role of creativity in STEM, and the challenges of curriculum development. Tim shares insights from his experience as an art teacher and how he has adapted to incorporate technology and interdisciplinary projects. The discussion also touches on the impact of the pandemic on education and the necessity of classroom management skills for effective teaching. In this engaging conversation, Dave and Tim explore the transformative impact of technology and the pandemic on education. They discuss the shift from traditional learning resources to digital platforms, the importance of project-based learning, and the role of AI in shaping future educational practices. The conversation highlights the significance of student perspectives, global collaboration, and the integration of art in STEM fields. Tim shares insights from his experiences with NASA and the exciting opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning through innovative projects. ABOUT TIM

Tim Needles is an artist, educator, performer, and author of STEAM Power: Infusing Art Into Your STEM Curriculum from ISTE with its 2nd edition out in 2025. He has been teaching art and media and acting as a technology integration specialist at Smithtown School District in New York for more than twenty-five years as well as serving as an adjunct college professor. He is a TEDx Talk speaker, an international speaker, and his work has been featured on NPR, in the New York Times, Columbus Museum of Art, Norman Rockwell Museum, Alexandria Museum of Art, Katonah Museum of Art, and Cape Cod Museum of Art.

He's the recipient of the ISTE Making IT Happen award as well as the ISTE PLN's Technology in Action Award and Creativity Award, NAEA's Eastern Region Art Educator Award and ArtEdTech Outstanding Teaching Award, as well as the Rauschenberg Power of Art Award. He's also a board member of NYSCATE and NYSATA, an ISTE Community leader, a NASA Solar System Ambassador, and a teacher leader in the CAN Connected Arts Network PLC.

He has a degree in educational administration and works with several educational technology companies serving as an Adobe Creative Educator Innovator, LEGO Education Ambassador, Discovery Education DEN Star, Google Certified Champion, PBS Digital Innovator, and a National Geographic Certified Teacher among others. He's active on social media at @timneedles.

Students thrive with curiosity, mentorship, storytelling, collaboration, and resilience. Senior Creative Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, Luc Mayrand, shares his journey as an Imagineer, discussing the importance of creativity, curiosity, and teamwork in the creative industries. He emphasizes the need for a clear purpose in career aspirations and the role of technology in enhancing storytelling. Luc also reflects on the evolving nature of education and its significance in preparing future generations for unpredictable career paths. In this engaging conversation, Dave and Luc explore the intricacies of leadership, management, and the importance of collaboration and mentorship. They discuss the dynamics of teaching and learning, the challenges of managing teams, and the necessity of embracing failure as a part of the creative process. Luc shares insights on the value of diverse teams and the unexpected sources of innovation that can arise from fostering a culture of trust and open communication. The discussion emphasizes the significance of reflection, storytelling, and the role of mentors in shaping one's career and approach to problem-solving.

🌟 Imagineering internships - https://sites.disney.com/waltdisneyimagineering/internships/

🌟 Walt Disney Imagineering includes over 100 different disciplines with a broad range in fields of study. Learn more about some amazing Imagineers here: https://sites.disney.com/waltdisneyimagineering/careers/

🌟 Get Imagineering in a box for free https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/hass-storytelling

🌟 Video from ScIC14 with Luc: https://www.thepocketlab.com/video/scic14/the-steam-behind-imagineering ABOUT LUC

As Senior Creative Executive at Imagineering, Luc leads the creation of ideas from the earliest stage, to then sell and develop them into the experiences inside and outside the parks.

Central to the creation of these projects is rapid iteration, a wide reach in partnerships, and fostering deep collaboration in the diverse teams behind the ideas. He has used this approach successfully for attractions, show, resorts, and new business development.

Recent projects include the multi-year expansion of Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland, as well as development for Disneyland Resort California.

Prior to Disney Luc worked on Films, Television and Experiences, in Asia, Europe and domestic locations.

Luc's work and play have been motivated by a lifelong passion for the future, stories, culture, science and design. Luc is originally from Montréal, Canada. He and his family live in Pasadena, California.