Lesson Objectives

By the end of this newsletter, you'll be able to:

• Identify shared concerns between AI enthusiasts and skeptics in education

• Use a framework to evaluate AI tools through an educator-first lens

• Create collaborative conversations about AI implementation that build bridges instead of walls

• Apply practical prompts to address common educator pain points while maintaining pedagogical integrity

Do Now

Before we get started, take a moment to think about the last time you had a conversation about AI in education. Did it end with understanding, or did people retreat to their corners? This week, we're changing that dynamic.

What We’re Working with Today

Recently, I responded to "An Open Letter from Educators Who Refuse the Call to Adopt GenAI in Education." Instead of dismissing their concerns, I found myself agreeing with much of what they said. The current AI in education movement has serious problems, but that doesn't mean we should abandon the conversation. Today we'll explore how to find common ground and build solutions together.

I Do, We Do, You Do

I Do: Here’s What I Created

This week, I created a framework for bridging the AI divide in education. Rather than trying to convince skeptics to embrace AI, I focused on identifying our shared values:

Shared Concerns We All Have:

• Student data privacy and security

• Maintaining authentic learning experiences

• Ensuring equity and accessibility for all learners

• Preserving critical thinking skills

• Keeping educators in control of pedagogy

• Building tools that actually solve real problems

Tools I used: Deep listening, collaborative dialogue, and a commitment to finding solutions that serve everyone

The result? A pathway for productive conversations that honor both enthusiasm and resistance.

We Do: Let’s Build This Together

Follow this step-by-step guide to create collaborative AI conversations:

Step 1: Start with Shared Values Instead of leading with "Here's this amazing AI tool," begin with "I share your concern about [specific issue]. Let's explore solutions together."

Step 2: Use the Educator-First Evaluation Framework Before recommending any AI tool, ask these questions:

• Was this built BY educators FOR educators?

• Does it address a genuine classroom pain point?

• Does it enhance rather than replace human connection?

• Can educators maintain control over the learning experience?

• Is student data protected and used ethically?

Step 3: Address Critical Thinking Concerns Head-On Use this LLM prompt to create AI interactions that promote rather than diminish thinking:

Critical Thinking AI Tutor Prompt:

You are a Socratic AI tutor. When a student asks you a question, NEVER provide direct answers. Instead, respond with 2-3 guiding questions that help them think through the problem themselves. 

Your responses should:
- Guide students to discover answers through questioning
- Encourage them to examine their assumptions
- Help them break complex problems into smaller parts
- Prompt them to consider multiple perspectives

Example:
Student: "What caused World War I?"
You: "That's a complex historical event with multiple contributing factors. What do you think might cause tensions between countries to escalate into war? Can you think of any specific events or conflicts you've heard about from that time period? How might alliances between countries affect the spread of conflict?"

Always end with: "What sources might help you research this further?"

Step 4: Build Bridges Through Practical Solutions Use this administrative prompt to address implementation concerns:

AI Implementation Assessment Prompt:

You are an educational consultant helping schools thoughtfully implement AI tools. For any AI tool or initiative being considered, provide an analysis that addresses these key stakeholder concerns:

FOR EDUCATORS:
- How does this tool enhance rather than replace teacher expertise?
- What training and support will teachers need?
- How can teachers maintain control over pedagogy and student relationships?

FOR ADMINISTRATORS:
- What are the privacy, security, and compliance considerations?
- What is the total cost of ownership (including training time)?
- How will this be monitored and evaluated for effectiveness?

FOR STUDENTS:
- How does this tool support rather than undermine learning objectives?
- Are there equity considerations for students with different access levels?
- How does this prepare students for appropriate AI use in their futures?

FOR FAMILIES:
- How will this tool's use be communicated transparently to parents?
- What opt-out options exist for families with concerns?
- How is student data being protected and used?

Provide specific recommendations for addressing each stakeholder group's concerns before implementation.

You Do: Your Mini Task for the Week

Now it's your turn! Choose one AI-skeptical colleague (or if you're the skeptic, choose one AI enthusiast). Schedule a 15-minute coffee conversation using this framework:

1. Start by identifying one shared concern about current education challenges

2. Listen to understand their perspective completely before sharing your own

3. Use the Educator-First Evaluation Framework to assess one tool together

4. End by brainstorming one small solution you could build or advocate for together

The goal isn't conversion… it's collaboration.

Think-Pair-Share

• Think of 3 concerns about AI in education that both enthusiasts and skeptics might share

• Pair up with a colleague who holds a different view than you about AI implementation

• Share your bridge-building conversation results with our community of educators and connect with other Edumators who are transforming their classrooms with AI and automation.

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