The Case Against Rushing AI in School with Pip Sanderson

Pip Sanderson, from the National Institute of Teaching in England, brings a refreshingly balanced perspective from the front lines of AI and education. While many edtech enthusiasts rush to implement AI solutions, Pip challenges us to consider what's at stake in our pursuit of technological efficiency and how we might preserve the human essence of learning. In this thought-provoking conversation, Pip and Paul explore the real impacts of AI on students' cognitive development and the importance of preserving struggle in the learning process.

From the ethical considerations of AI-powered teaching tools to the critical importance of metacognitive skills, this episode offers a nuanced look at technology's role in education. Pip shares insights from recent research suggesting that while AI tools may improve short-term understanding, they potentially limit the development of higher-order thinking skills essential for long-term success. Parents and educators alike will find valuable guidance on navigating today's technology landscape with children's best interests at heart.

You'll Learn:

• Why the push for "efficient learning" through AI might be undermining crucial cognitive development
• How research shows AI tools may improve short-term understanding but limit higher-order thinking skills
• The importance of preserving "desirable difficulty" and struggle in the learning process
• Why boredom plays a crucial role in child development that technology often eliminates
• How to evaluate the real benefits versus potential harms of AI in educational settings
• The danger of schools adopting AI solutions without sufficient understanding of the technology
• Practical advice for parents navigating technology decisions with their children

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Cognitive Resonance
• Books by Bernie Neville
• "ChatGPT impacts student engagement from a systematic review and meta-analysis study" by Yuk Mui Elly Heung and Thomas K.F. Chiu

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