Join host Bill Selak and kindergarten teacher Dana Ford as they kick off Season 9 of the Hillbrook School Podcast! This episode dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and education, exploring how AI can enhance teaching practices and empower students.

Bill and Dana discuss their year-long professional development initiative aimed at helping teachers effectively utilize AI tools. They reflect on the positive feedback received from faculty and share their excitement about the potential of AI to support hyper-personalized learning experiences. The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining the human element in education, emphasizing that while AI can assist teachers, it cannot replace the social and emotional connections that are vital for young learners.

Throughout the episode, they highlight practical applications of AI, such as generating customized reading materials and creating choice boards that cater to individual student interests. As they ponder the future of AI in education, Bill and Dana invite listeners to reflect on what they hope AI will make possible for students.

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Dive into the transformative world of generative AI in education! In our latest episode, we chat with Nick Provenzano about how AI can enhance creativity, support neurodiverse learners, and empower students to take control of their learning. Discover practical applications, insights on project-based learning, and much more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to reshape your teaching approach—listen now!

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In this episode, host Bill Selak is joined by Jay Van Buren, co-founder of the Membit augmented reality app and director of the Hub at Hillbrook. Together, they delve into the transformative power of augmented reality (AR) in education, sharing insights on how it enhances student learning and engagement.

Bill recounts an exciting opportunity for Hillbrook as they prepare to host a tour from Taiwan's Ministry of Education. He emphasizes the importance of showcasing student projects in meaningful contexts rather than through traditional presentations. Jay explains how AR allows visitors to experience student work in situ, bridging the gap between digital content and the physical environment. By using AR, students can create immersive experiences that reflect their identities and learning journeys.

The conversation highlights the innovative "Selfinder" project, where students design immersive cylinders that invite others into their personal spaces, fostering empathy and creativity. Jay elaborates on the significance of context in AR, illustrating how digital objects can enhance our understanding of the real world and elevate the learning experience.

As they explore the future of education, Bill and Jay discuss the vital role of creativity and communication skills in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, especially with the rise of AI. They encourage educators to embrace AR as a tool for facilitating deeper connections and engaging storytelling in the classroom.

Join them for a thought-provoking discussion on how Hillbrook School is at the forefront of integrating technology and creativity into the learning process, preparing students for a dynamic future where their voices and ideas can truly shine.

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