Lesson Objectives

• Explore how innovation in education can challenge our existing assumptions

• Consider the role of technology in creating new educational paradigms

• Develop creative thinking about future learning models

Do Now

Before we get started, take a moment to reflect on your own educational journey. What aspects of traditional education served you well? What aspects could have been different? Keep these reflections in mind as we explore new possibilities in education.

What We’re Talking About Today

Today we'll explore how emerging technologies and innovative thinking are pushing us to reimagine what education could look like. While traditional classroom models have served many students well, the future of education might look dramatically different from what we've known. Let's embrace this opportunity to think creatively about new possibilities.

Recently, the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools approved an all-virtual school that uses personalized AI instruction for two hours per day (source here). This has ruffled a few feathers, but that is likely due to the focus of AI personalization and the mention of replacing teachers. This has already been happening for years, though.

Alternative education programs have always used different teaching and delivery models. Shouldn’t AI be able to improve what currently exists? This brings us back around to our main pain point when it comes to technology and education. We are far behind when it comes to adopting, integrating, and building with AI. What’s the solution? Start learning now.

I Do, We Do, You Do

I Do: Here’s What I Worked on Over Break

During these past two weeks of winter break, I worked on my AI Revolution in Special Education presentation. I will be presenting on AI and automation at the ACSA Every Child Counts Symposium on January 14 (!!) Much of the break was spent building out our 75-minute presentation and thinking about what matters most to administrators when it comes to efficiency and streamlining their work.

One of the big ideas I have been tossing around is the idea of an AI case management automated system. Think about it—finding a teacher who is excellent at instruction, has great intuition, cares deeply about students, has strong classroom management, and is good with compliance and paperwork… that is truly like finding a unicorn.

2025 is our year. As a former math teacher, I am very pleased that it is both a perfect square and the sum of the first nine cubes. It’s our year to build solutions. I truly believe the best thing to happen in education will be something that we build together. Something that pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo. Let’s do it.

We Do: Let’s Build This Together

Let's brainstorm our own innovative education model. Follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Start with Student Needs

   • List 3 current challenges students face

   • Identify 2 future skills they'll need

   • Consider various learning styles and preferences

2. Break Traditional Assumptions

   • Challenge the concept of fixed class times

   • Rethink the role of physical spaces

   • Question traditional assessment methods

3. Integrate Technology Thoughtfully

   • Consider how AI could personalize learning

   • Explore virtual and augmented reality possibilities

   • Think about data-driven adaptivity

4. Maintain Human Connection

   • Design opportunities for peer collaboration

   • Plan for mentorship and guidance

   • Create community engagement points

You Do: Your Mini Task for the Week

Now it's your turn! Choose one aspect of traditional education that you think needs reimagining. It could be:

• Assessment methods

• Class scheduling

• Content delivery

• Student engagement

• Progress tracking

Create a brief outline for how you'd transform it using available or emerging technologies.

Think-Pair-Share

• Think of 3 ideas that could transform your classroom tomorrow

• Pair up with a colleague to discuss the practical implications

• Share your ideas with our community of educators and connect with other Edumators who are transforming their classrooms with AI and automation.

Exit Ticket

Ready to explore automation and take control of your processes? Join the FREE 30-Day AI & Automation Email Course for Educators to learn how to build solutions tailored to your needs.

Do you know a parent of a student with special needs that wants to learn how to better advocate for their child? Share our newly launched SPED Code Advocacy Guide blog with them!

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