Teach Smarter

AI isn’t just changing how students complete assignments—it’s forcing colleges to rethink everything from course design to institutional purpose. In this episode, Dr. Nik Janos, sociology professor at California State University, Chico, joins Pete and Stephanie to talk about what higher ed needs to confront in the age of AI. From assessment systems written before the internet to the collapse of the TA pipeline, they explore what’s becoming obsolete, what still matters, and how backward design can help educators rebuild with intention.

AI tools like ChatGPT, MagicSchool, and SchoolAI are becoming go-to lesson planners for busy teachers. But are they actually building strong instruction? In this episode, Pete and Stephanie dig into new research that says not quite. They unpack what these tools are getting wrong, why it matters, and how educators can start using AI with more intention and less guesswork.

In this conversation, Elliot Hedman (Build Empathy) shares insights from his research on how students are using generative AI in schools, often in ways that go unnoticed by educators. Drawing on his experience designing digital learning tools for companies like LEGO, McGraw-Hill, and i-Ready, Elliot discusses the limitations of AI detection tools, the rise of paraphrased outputs, and why banning AI may be doing more harm than good. He emphasizes the need to focus on student thinking over polished output and shares healthier, more authentic ways to integrate AI into classroom practice. The discussion also highlights two of Elliot’s free tools, Level Up and Wonder.io, which help students engage more meaningfully in writing and reading through collaborative AI use.

In this conversation, Dr. Michelle Kassorla discusses the integration of AI in the writing classroom, emphasizing the shift from teaching against AI to teaching with it. She highlights the importance of formative assessment, the need for a focus on process over product, and the significance of teaching voice, tone, and audience awareness. Dr. Kassorla also addresses the challenges of AI's limitations, the necessity of transparency in AI use, and the distinction between academic integrity and academic dignity. The discussion concludes with insights on how AI can enhance critical thinking and prepare students for the future of writing.

In this episode, we’re joined by Julie Foss of True Nexus Consulting to cut through the noise around AI in education. Julie brings two decades of experience as a teacher, leader, and consultant—and she’s not here to hype the latest tool. Instead, we talk about what really matters: strategic implementation, change management, and how to align AI with the actual goals of your school or district.

In this episode, Pete and Stephanie dive into Notebook LM, a Google AI tool designed to help users synthesize information from multiple sources. They explore its key features, practical applications in education, and how it can support teachers in implementing curricula more effectively. The discussion also highlights Notebook LM’s interactive mode, which allows users to engage dynamically with the generated content. The episode wraps up with a podcast segment created on Notebook LM during the conversation.

Join us as we dive into the world of AI-powered language learning with Brent Warner, an award-winning community college professor and tech innovator. Brent works globally with teachers and organizations, offering practical strategies to help Multilingual Learners (MLLs) harness technology for clearer communication. A blogger for TESOL International, co-host of The DIESOL Podcast, and author of the soon-to-be-released EdTech for Multilingual Learners: 48 Fun & Flexible Activities for Every Classroom (ISTE), Brent shares how AI can transform fear into fluency. Discover how tools like ChatGPT empower shy students with private, judgment-free speaking practice, bridge personal goals, and inspire teachers to rethink tech in the classroom. Tune in for insights that make language learning smarter—and more human.

In this episode of Teach Smarter, Pete Siner and Stephanie discuss key insights from the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) 2025, exploring the latest advancements in AI for education. They break down how AI tools should enhance—not replace—teaching, the importance of professional development, and the Think Smarter framework for creating personalized student pathways. The conversation also tackles skepticism toward AI, ethical considerations, and the challenges educators face in navigating new technology. With a focus on practical, teacher-friendly solutions, Pete and Stephanie reflect on the biggest trends from FETC and what they mean for the future of education.

How can we transform ordinary lessons into extraordinary learning experiences? In this episode, we're joined by John Sammon and Tara Koehler, veteran educators and STEAM Professional Development Specialists from the Wappingers Central School District in New York. Together, they share their innovative strategies for blending Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Project-Based Learning (PBL) to empower both teachers and students.

As co-authors of The Tapas Approach to Project-Based Learning: A Culinary Map for Educators on the Transformative Power of PBL, John and Tara provide actionable insights into their “Tapas Approach,” which helps educators create meaningful, bite-sized PBL experiences. They also reveal how AI is transforming both instructional strategies and student learning outcomes in their district.

Connect with John and Tara:

Check out their book, The Tapas Approach to Project-Based Learning: Amazon link

In this solo episode of Teach Smarter, Stephanie dives into how AI can help educators focus on their own growth—personally and professionally. Drawing from a powerful gardening metaphor, she shares how tools like ChatGPT can guide teachers through the January doldrums, mapping out tailored professional development plans. Whether you're looking to grow in your teaching role or explore education-adjacent opportunities, this episode is packed with practical strategies and AI insights to help you cultivate your own garden.