Curiosity should be a feature of school, not a casualty of shortcuts. We sit down with Sam Whitaker, Senior Director of Impact at StudyFetch, to unpack how AI can deepen learning without doing the work for students—and why the difference matters for equity, creativity, and the future workforce. Sam pulls from data on a million student chats, showing that when guardrails are clear, most learners use AI to understand concepts, plan essays, and practice step by step rather than asking for answer...
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Curiosity should be a feature of school, not a casualty of shortcuts. We sit down with Sam Whitaker, Senior Director of Impact at StudyFetch, to unpack how AI can deepen learning without doing the work for students—and why the difference matters for equity, creativity, and the future workforce. Sam pulls from data on a million student chats, showing that when guardrails are clear, most learners use AI to understand concepts, plan essays, and practice step by step rather than asking for answer...
Curiosity should be a feature of school, not a casualty of shortcuts. We sit down with Sam Whitaker, Senior Director of Impact at StudyFetch, to unpack how AI can deepen learning without doing the work for students—and why the difference matters for equity, creativity, and the future workforce. Sam pulls from data on a million student chats, showing that when guardrails are clear, most learners use AI to understand concepts, plan essays, and practice step by step rather than asking for answer...
What if every learner walked into school already believing they belong, can take on tough challenges, and that their ideas matter? That’s the spark we chase as Juan sits down with Dr. Jennifer Barry, CEO of Smart Lab, to unpack a practical, human-centered approach to STEM and STEAM that turns technology from a shiny object into a catalyst for real learning. We dive into a clear definition of STEM identity—belonging, mastery, and impact—and why it must anchor every choice about tools, project...
In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Matt Dalio, founder and CEO of Endless, about the transformative power of technology in education. They discuss the importance of empowering students to become creators rather than consumers, the role of games in learning, and the challenges of integrating technology in classrooms. Matt shares insights on affordability, public-private partnerships, and the essential skills needed for the future workforce, particularly for ...
Personalized learning has been a buzzword for years, but rarely a reality. In this episode, Amir Nathoo, founder & CEO of OutSchool, reveals how technology and human connection are finally making it possible. From breaking out of the industrial-era classroom model to embracing AI as a tool—not a threat—Amir shares bold insights on what real personalized learning looks like and why teachers deserve to be treated like true creative professionals. Whether you’re a teacher craving more freedo...
In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Chris Hull, a former social studies teacher and co-founder of Otus, an all-in-one platform for education technology. They discuss the journey from teaching to edtech innovation, the challenges of integrating technology in classrooms, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. Chris shares insights on how to effectively use data to improve student outcomes, engage parents, and ensure data security. The conversation ...
In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Lindy Hockenbary, an experienced K-12 EdTech advisor, about the integration of technology and AI in education. They discuss Lindy's journey in EdTech, the key elements for successful technology integration, common mistakes educators make, and the importance of digital citizenship. The conversation also explores the role of cell phones in the classroom and the impact of AI on the future of education, emphasizing the need fo...
In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, Juan Rodriguez sits down with Anna Haney-Winthrow, Director of the Institute of Innovative & Emerging Technologies at Florida Southwestern State College. They explore how AI is transforming higher education, from faculty upskilling to algorithm literacy for students. Anna shares insights on how educators can embrace AI rather than fear it, create more engaging learning experiences, and ensure technology is used equitably in the classroom. Whether you...
Heather Olson, Director of Online Teaching and Learning Experience at Florida SouthWestern State College, discusses her journey into education and her philosophy of fostering inclusivity and confidence in online spaces. She highlights the use of tools like Canvas, Notion, Google Learn, Flexi AI, Harmonize, Packback, and Hypothesis to enhance learning outcomes. Olson emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning, flexible policies, and leveraging AI to personalize education. She shares h...
Unlock the future of education with Professor Lance Cummings from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, as he shares groundbreaking strategies transforming the classroom. From applied learning and ungrading to leveraging AI and cutting-edge tools like LeftOS, Lance reimagines education to prepare students for an AI-driven world. Discover how experiential learning, design thinking, and modern digital platforms empower students to collaborate, innovate, and thrive. Explore how AI enhanc...
Abran Maldonado, co-founder of CreateLabs Ventures, takes us on a fascinating journey from the pulsating beats of Hot 97 to the transformative world of education technology. Discover how his experiences as a Gates Scholar and his deep commitment to urban education fused with his love for music to create innovative educational tools. Abran's story is one of turning personal passions into powerful platforms for change, focusing on the development of a hip hop-themed education app that engages s...
Juan Rodriguez hosts a EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together discussing the digital divide in education with AJ Singh, an experienced educator from Lucknow, India. AJ, currently working at Magic Ed Tech, emphasizes personalized learning and inclusive classroom environments. He highlights the use of Google Classroom for improved time management and communication, and addresses challenges like the digital divide by offering hybrid learning and low-cost educational resources. AJ...
Naomi Latini Wolf, a sociology professor and inclusive edtech specialist, discusses her approach to integrating technology in education to create inclusive learning environments. She emphasizes the importance of digital literacy, empathy, and critical thinking. Wolf uses tools like Google's Applied Digital Skills, Canva, Padlet, and AI platforms to enhance student engagement and accessibility. She addresses challenges such as tech anxiety and socioeconomic barriers by offering multiple submis...
Curiosity should be a feature of school, not a casualty of shortcuts. We sit down with Sam Whitaker, Senior Director of Impact at StudyFetch, to unpack how AI can deepen learning without doing the work for students—and why the difference matters for equity, creativity, and the future workforce. Sam pulls from data on a million student chats, showing that when guardrails are clear, most learners use AI to understand concepts, plan essays, and practice step by step rather than asking for answer...
