#200 AI and Education – episode 2 (with James Radburn)

Craig Barton
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This episode of the Mr Barton Maths podcast is proudly supported by the LUMEN maths curriculum. You can access their free maths resources here: lboro.ac.uk/services/lumen/curriculum

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Episode details

This is the second instalment in a series of episodes examining the role of AI in education. Specifically, I am interested in how AI can save teachers time, help them perform their jobs more effectively, or ideally, both. However, I am also concerned with what schools and learning in general might look like in the future.

On this episode, I am joined by James Radburn. As you will hear, James has devoted considerable time to considering the positive benefits and pitfalls of AI in education. Today, after James shares three practical use cases of AI that all listeners can use, we dive into the tricky areas of AI literacy for both teachers and students. What is the minimum that all teachers and students need to know about AI, and what are the ethical implications?

Episode summary

In this episode of the Mr Barton Maths podcast, Craig Barton interviews James Radburn, a digital innovation lead in education. James shares his journey in the education sector, emphasizing the importance of technology and digital strategies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses his skepticism towards technology while recognizing its potential to enhance pedagogical practices. The conversation delves into the emergence of AI in education, practical applications of AI, and the importance of engaging with research. James also reflects on the value of books versus summaries, highlighting the journey of understanding that books provide. In this conversation, Craig Barton and James Radburn explore the multifaceted role of AI in education, focusing on its ethical implications, practical applications in lesson planning, and the importance of AI literacy for teachers. They discuss the potential dangers of relying too heavily on AI-generated content, the need for transparency in its use, and the balance between efficiency and thorough understanding in teaching practices. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for educators to engage critically with AI tools while leveraging their capabilities to enhance teaching and learning. In this conversation, James Radburn and Craig Barton explore the evolving role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of human oversight, the need for student voice in educational discussions, and the challenges of inequality in access to technology. They discuss the necessity of integrating AI literacy into the curriculum and the potential future of education, balancing technology with essential human interactions. The conversation highlights the importance of fostering a love of learning and ensuring that all students have access to the tools they need to succeed in a digital world.

Takeaways:

  • James Radburn is a digital innovation lead with a focus on technology in education.
  • His career has evolved alongside his children’s growth, reflecting personal and professional milestones.
  • He emphasizes the importance of a digital strategy in schools, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • James is skeptical about technology but believes in its pedagogical potential.
  • He has worked in various roles within education, including assistant head and math lead.
  • AI’s emergence has prompted him to explore its implications for teaching and learning.
  • He uses AI as a thought partner to enhance decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Research engagement is crucial, and AI tools can facilitate deeper understanding of complex topics.
  • Books provide a journey and context that summaries often miss, highlighting the art of writing.
  • Engaging with primary sources is important, but AI tools can enhance the learning experience. AI is a powerful tool for recognizing patterns and generating responses.
  • Teachers should use AI as a thought partner, not a final product.
  • Understanding the limitations and risks of AI is crucial for educators.
  • Transparency in AI use is essential for ethical practices in education.
  • AI can save time in lesson planning but should not replace human judgment.
  • Educators must engage critically with AI tools to enhance learning.
  • The purpose of AI-generated reports must be clear and meaningful.
  • AI can help identify patterns in student data for better insights.
  • Teachers need to be aware of the ethical implications of AI in assessments.
  • Ongoing experimentation with AI tools is necessary to find effective applications in education. The purpose of reporting in education should be actionable and supportive.
  • Incorporating student voice can enhance educational discussions and practices.
  • AI should assist educators, but humans must remain in control of the learning process.
  • AI literacy is essential for students and should be integrated into the curriculum.
  • Inequality in access to technology can widen the educational gap.
  • The future of education may involve personalized learning through technology.
  • Engaging parents in discussions about technology is crucial for student success.
  • Fostering a love of learning is essential for student engagement.
  • Schools need to focus on core foundational knowledge for all students.
  • The role of technology in education should be balanced with human interaction.

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