Episode Details

In Episode 85, the Stunt Brothers dive deep into AI and wonder whether we need to hit pause.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly making its way into classrooms, but does AI actually help students learn?

In Season 3, Episode 2 of  After the Bell, the Stunt Brothers—Martin Stuible and Roy Hunt—go on a field trip and talk with Ben Humphreys, a Vancouver parent, computer programmer, and co-founder of PACES Vancouver (Parents for AI Caution in Educational Spaces).

Ben brings a unique perspective to the conversation. With a background in computer science and programming, he isn't opposed to technology. His concern is whether schools are moving too quickly to introduce  generative AI and AI chatbots into classrooms without enough evidence that they improve student learning. 

It took many years to understand the dangers of the smart phone and only now are we learning the truth about social media algorithms that are used to target our youth. Are we going to make the same mistakes again? Now is the time to think deeply about AI and ponder whether we need to pause.

At the heart of the conversation is a simple question:
Just because a technology exists, does that mean we should use it in the classroom?

Ben argues that schools should first identify the problem they are trying to solve—and then determine whether AI is actually the best solution.

It’s a timely conversation for teachers, parents and anyone interested in the future of education and AI in schools.

And, of course, the Stunt Brothers couldn't make it through an episode about technology without experiencing a little AI-related chaos of their own!

Key Topics

• The introduction of Microsoft Copilot into schools
• Why PACES Vancouver is calling for a two-year pause
• What current research says about AI and student learning
• Whether AI makes homework easier but learning weaker
• Cognitive offloading and the importance of students doing the thinking themselves
• The value of handwriting, note-taking and productive struggle
• AI, student mental health and social connection
• What school districts around the world are doing about AI
• Whether schools should slow down and rethink their approach to educational technology

Learn more about PACES 

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