Guest post by Harikrishna Kundariya, cofounder and director of esparkBiz Technologies. Opinions are those of the guest blogger.
Introduction
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to detect and cease cyber security risks and threats, and if this is not possible, precautionary actions should be taken before the threat is triggered. AI cyber security solutions review and analyze the code used in the virus and develop and apply an antivirus solution. The two codes are stored on databases of previous threats and attacks. The detection and preventive actions used, as well as analyses of new and covert threats camouflaged as innocuous payloads, and actions before the deadly payload is released.
Available cyber security software applications use algorithms and codes to detect malware and viruses with specific destructive code patterns. This detection is not guaranteed and new variants of viruses and hacking exploits are missed. They enter the IT system and hijack or destroy it. A report from Cybercrime Magazine indicates that the costs associated with cybercrime are projected to rise to $19.5 trillion each year by 2025.
How AI Assists in Identifying Threats and Swift Incident Response
AI agents, also called AI bots, are small software programs, with special tasks and routines embedded in either/both, software and/or hardware components. They are programmed to identify vulnerabilities in software programs that hackers tend to exploit. Malware is also found in emails and attachments, illegal sites such as adult and gambling, gaming sites and apps, and others.
These agents also guard and listen to access points’ login areas and virtual ports where software programs connect to the hardware. They also study connection requests from users and/or other software programs, analyze fake or harmful connection requests sent by hackers, and block them.
The AI agent identifies the illegal traffic from its AI learning and training database and stops the request. The request is further analyzed and stored in the training database, which serves as a knowledge repository. This information is shared with other verified cybersecurity agencies.
Using AI for Protection
Many cyber security actions detailed in this section are already available in anti-virus solutions. However, AI systems carry out the detection faster and the response is more accurate.
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or event! Submit the Contact Form.
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Since the early 2000s, education has had to evolve with the rapid integration of technology into the classroom. From the general use of computers and laptops for schoolwork to the rise of smartphones and tablets in the classroom, teachers have had to be agile to keep up with these changing trends. Unfortunately, despite these advancements, many teachers struggle in their jobs, leading to a mass exodus in recent years. In August this year alone, Statista reported that 51,000 teachers and other educational staff quit their jobs in the United States. As the education sector is struggling to find teachers to replace them, artificial intelligence (AI) could be the next advancement that not only changes how students learn but also improves the teaching profession by making the job easier. In a guest post by Matthew Rhoads, Ed.D., he wrote that AI can improve teachers’ workflow by providing opportunities for them to optimize their workflow and instruction in the classroom. Below are 7 ways that AI will make teachers’ jobs easier.
Grading
One of the biggest reasons for teacher stress and burnout is the extra work they must do in addition to teaching. Grading is one of the most time-consuming tasks and is often done outside of regular school hours, eating into a teacher’s work-life balance. As discussed in A Look Back at AI in Education, AI grading tools can automate this process. AI can appraise student work instantaneously with very little human input needed, thereby increasing the time teachers can spend on other aspects of their job as well as increasing their free time. These tools also provide much faster feedback to the students, which in turn will help with engagement.
Roleplaying
One factor of AI that will provide a new dimension to how students learn about different subjects is Generative AI (GenAI). MongoDB details how GenAI is based on foundation models that can perform tasks like classification, sentence completion, the generation of images or voice, and synthetic (artificially generated) data. This means that teachers can use AI to educate students through roleplaying. Gabriel Rshaid, co-founder and director at The Learnerspace & The Global School, writes on LinkedIn that GenAI systems that can impersonate a famous, historical, or even current person as well as replicate historical situations. He argues that not only will it foster critical thinking, but it will also elevate the level of interest and engagement for students. Lack of engagement in lessons is regularly touted as a common issue in modern classrooms, leading to added stress for teachers.
Foreign Language Teaching
Language learning in the classroom can be very difficult for teachers due to the lack of one-on-one time with students. With AI, students can speak to a Language Learning Model such as ChatGPT or an AI interlocutor to create a dialogue that is exactly pitched at their level. In a previous post on AI Literacy, we asked a student about the benefits of using AI for language learning. She replied: “The chatbot was very helpful. Immersing yourself with technology that helps you learn Spanish or any other language can help a lot. You have real-time conversations, and the chatbot expands the conversation so you can learn even more about the language. It also helps you become more comfortable speaking!” As students engage with the AI on their own terms, foreign language teachers will have more time to address individual needs.
Plan Lessons
Like grading, a good amount of time outside teaching is spent planning lessons due to the amount of research and reinvention needed. AI can streamline and optimize this process by not only creating new plans from scratch very quickly but also analyzing past lesson plans to cater to the teacher’s own preferences and style of teaching. Curriculum standards also change very frequently, and AI can be used to ensure that the lessons are updated with the latest requirements. This decreases the time teachers spend on planning lessons and increases their ability to work with students.
Personalized Learning For Students
One of the major issues that makes a teacher’s job difficult is not being able to adapt their teaching methods for individual students. It is not possible for teachers to create personalized learning plans for each student in their classroom, which can lead to some students getting left behind and resulting in a lack of engagement. AI-powered adaptive learning platforms can analyze students’ strengths and weaknesses and provide personalized lessons and study paths.
Improve Classroom Management
While AI will revolutionize how teachers can adapt their lessons to students to improve their learning outcomes, another important aspect of AI that will make a teacher’s job easier is classroom management. A Medium post notes how “one of the most pressing challenges for teachers has always been classroom management,” with discipline being one of the most difficult aspects of the job. When it comes to class management, AI can create a more harmonious classroom environment by being able to “detect when a student is distracted, struggling with a concept, or even feeling unwell.” This will allow teachers to immediately intervene and address the issues before they escalate and result in classroom disruption.
Reduce Burnout
As the above benefits show, AI can have a positive impact on many different facets of teaching to make the job easier. By improving each of the above aspects, AI will reduce overall burnout in teachers, which is having a massive impact on the industry. HMH’s 9th Annual Educator Confidence Report found that burnout is a critical issue, with 82% of educators citing that what they need most is a more balanced workload. Education and students are changing fast, with one teacher noting that “today’s student is different from students even five years ago.” AI will not only allow teachers to keep up, but it will also reduce their workload and give them more time to focus on their students. This will make their job easier and improve their work-life balance, which will hopefully stem the number of teachers leaving the profession.
About Rachelle
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
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This article was created in collaboration with Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth and Jooble. Opinions are those of the guest writer.
In particular, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is invigorating each line of business, opening up enormous potential for persons trained in AI and associated areas. If your goal is to become an AI developer, you are positioning yourself for terrific job growth, with an average salary of an AI engineer of $160,000 per year in the US, according to Jooble. To help you get started on your AI journey, we provide some tips on essential steps and skills that will help you make it through the course.
Where can Artificial Intelligence be applied?
Artificial Intelligence is a branch of study and application of computing systems that manifest attributes associated with human intelligence to perform tasks that would otherwise necessitate human input. Compared to other SCH software, AI systems can learn from data, and its performance can be refined without needing rewiring. AI is an emerging and growing sector that has penetrated almost all industries across the globe, including the service industry, medical, and financial. For example, 50% of companies plan to invest in machine learning engineers and data departments focused on AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of upskilling the workforce to meet future demands.
AI can simply be a chatbot, up to a complex intelligent model based on neural networks used to make predictions and sophisticated analyses. By far one of the core constructs of AI is the notion that algorithms learn from data input — a key component in the creation of programs that get smarter with time.
The Role of AI in Modern Industries
The United States and China lead in AI investments, making them prime hubs for AI development and job opportunities. AI integration is becoming crucial in various industries as businesses increasingly implement AI technologies to reduce costs and boost productivity. In sectors such as healthcare and automotive, AI solutions are driving a revolution through automated processes, big data analysis, and the development of smart systems, reshaping the way these industries operate. As Ulrich Spiesshofer said, “The countries with the highest robot density have among the lowest unemployment rates. Technology and humans combined in the right way will drive prosperity.”
AI also assists in creating individualized services and goods. For example, generative AI is already altering marketing and entertainment with its ability to design or write content/results based on data. AI processes can even predict consumer behavior, becoming valuable assets for businesses. The demand for AI experts who can learn and apply AI in real-life scenarios is rapidly increasing.
Most Important Things You Need to Learn for a Career in AI
To embark on your AI learning journey, it’s crucial to have a structured learning program and acquire a strong foundation in the following skills:
Computer Science: Learn Python, R, and Java as they are the most used programming languages in AI and data-related fields. Depending on the project or this level of work, knowledge of these languages will be required to deal with AI solutions.
Mathematics and Statistics: Khan says that knowledge of math is ESSENTIAL for AI, and examples of such skills are linear algebra, probability, and statistical methods.
Machine learning and Deep learning of Artificial Intelligence Concepts: Learning about another class of AI, known as machine learning, will enable you to understand how machines learn and optimize from data.
AI Tools and Libraries: Analyze artificial intelligence for business and learn some helpful tools and libraries, such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, for building models.
Main Technologies of the field of AI
AI technology encompasses various fields with new advancements in AI revolving around the existing structure. Key technologies that play a pivotal role include:
Natural Language Processing (NLP): Under the NLP study, machines are capable of learning how to handle human language which is much more useful in other advanced technologies like artificial intelligence digital assistants such as the use of chatbots.
Computer Vision: This field allows users to understand and interpret visual data and is crucial for fields such as healthcare, the automotive industry, and security.
Deep Learning: This superior artificial intelligence method is modeled on the action of the human brain and allows a machine to recognize patterns in the data.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an AI Expert
1. Select Your Right Line of Study
There are multiple opportunities to learn with the help of AI in 2024, from online courses to a university degree. First of all, choose the program that will suit you best if you are eager to master AI as a beginner or if you are eager to obtain an AI degree. There are many universities as well as online centres offering classes from the fundamentals of artificial intelligence to advanced artificial intelligence classes containing concepts such as deep learning and neural networks.
Vacancies in AI presuppose a solid educational background, and thus, the reception of the education that inscribes AI as learning from data, machine learning, and AI engineering is essential.
2. Where to Get Experience in AI Projects
AI learning libraries and tools are essential for gaining practical experience and understanding artificial intelligence. To truly become an AI engineer, working on AI projects is mandatory. The best way to practice is by contributing to AI-related projects whenever possible, participating in hackathons, or providing suggestions for open-source projects. These activities help solidify your knowledge of AI concepts and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. As Stephen Hawking warned, “Success in creating AI would be the biggest event in human history. Unfortunately, it might also be the last unless we learn how to avoid the risks.” To be a good AI engineer, it’s crucial to continuously gain new knowledge, study daily, and stay updated with the latest advancements to ensure responsible and safe development of AI technologies.
Minimum Qualifications Required for AI and Data Science Professionals
First of all, certifications in the world of AI are very important when it comes to the development of your profession, as many jobs in AI require some proof of your knowledge. Not only do they prove that you are worth your salt, but they also provide you with the necessary leverage to go for a job.
AI certifications that help where to take your AI career
Developments in AI or any related field certification will make you a better candidate for employment. AI certifications from globally technologically advanced companies such as Google, Microsoft, or IBM can let you highlight your strong points in specific areas of interest, such as machine learning, data science, or AI tools. These certifications will give you ways to get on your plan for learning AI and assist you in gaining mastery from the entry-level AI to the expert level.
A number of AI Learning Plans and Learning Systems we currently have are accredited by the respective industries they belong to.
Proprietary AI programs, like Coursera and edX, offer complete programs with necessary learning experiences. These courses are developed in collaboration with professionals in the field, and the topics include different aspects of AI and its applications. Such programs are helpful for beginners in AI and for people who already have some experience in the field but would want to learn more about the development of more complex topics in AI.
Whether you’re a complete newcomer or an advanced AI practitioner looking to elevate your career, these programs will guide you along your AI path. With over 95% of executives agreeing that generative AI will revolutionize AI applications, its use is extending into new domains such as product design and customer engagement, making this an exciting time to dive deeper into AI.
Conclusion
The journey to learn AI proficiency in this exciting field, its process, and its course can be thrilling yet sometimes frustrating, especially when grappling with machine learning concepts. However, with the right skills, relevant education, and practical experience, you can become an AI engineer, helping shape the future of AI and data science. As Fei-Fei Li aptly said, “Artificial intelligence is not a substitute for human intelligence; it is a tool to amplify human creativity and ingenuity.” Across industries, businesses are increasingly employing artificial intelligence, driving demand for AI specialists with highly rewarding salaries. This makes it the perfect time to begin your journey into this promising and rapidly growing field and continue to adopt AI technologies.
About Rachelle
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
**Interested in writing a guest blog for my site? Would love to share your ideas! Submit your post here. Looking for a new book to read? Find these available at bit.ly/Pothbooks
************ Also check out my THRIVEinEDU PodcastHere!
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Guest post written By: Maurie Beasley, M.Ed. Counseling (Edited by Jim Beasley)
Cheating in school — it’s the topic that’s always been there, lurking in the shadows of every classroom and exam hall. For decades, we’ve known it happens, but we often look for the quickest explanation: students are lazy, technology makes it easier, end of story. But here’s the thing: cheating is not just a modern phenomenon, nor is it just about slacking off or taking advantage of new tools like AI. The real reasons why students cheat run much deeper, and if we’re serious about addressing the issue, we need to understand those reasons first.
Let’s be clear: cheating isn’t just some bad habit students picked up recently. It’s been around long before ChatGPT was on the mind of any engineer. And despite the attention AI has brought to the issue, the reasons students cheat are essentially the same as they’ve always been. So why does it persist, and what can we do about it? Let’s take a closer look at these reasons.
Pressure to Perform:
Students today are walking a tightrope, balancing academic expectations, extracurricular activities, and even part-time jobs. The pressure to perform is immense, and it’s no surprise that some students feel they can’t afford to fall.
Let me tell you about my daughter. She was the salutatorian of her high school class. She missed being valedictorian by a hair — a hair that could have been as little as a hundredth of a point. The only B she ever received was from a teacher who told her that grades don’t matter. Her response? “Great, then give me the one point I need to make an A in the class, or better yet, write me a letter explaining to the admissions board at UT Austin that grades don’t matter and being number 2 in my class is ok.” She knew that being valedictorian meant having your first year of college paid for in Texas. My daughter is honest, sometimes to a fault, but several times I was even tempted to tell her to “cheat” a little. That’s the kind of pressure students are under, and when the stakes are this high, cheating may seem like a way to stay on that tightrope, even if just barely.
Fear of Failure:
Beneath that pressure lies an even more pervasive issue: fear of failure. The fear of letting down parents, teachers, and even themselves can be overwhelming. When failure isn’t seen as an opportunity to learn but rather as a personal catastrophe, cheating becomes a tempting escape route. It’s not about cutting corners for the sake of it; it’s about avoiding the crushing weight of perceived inadequacy.
Beneath that pressure lies an even more pervasive issue: fear of failure. The fear of letting down parents, teachers, and even themselves can be overwhelming. When failure isn’t seen as an opportunity to learn but rather as a personal catastrophe, cheating becomes a tempting escape route. It’s not about cutting corners for the sake of it; it’s about avoiding the crushing weight of perceived inadequacy.
And this fear isn’t just hypothetical. As a counselor, I’ve seen it manifest in tragic ways. I’ve had to make Child Protective Service calls because parents have beaten their children for not performing well enough in school. When failure comes with such dire consequences, is it any wonder some students feel they have no choice but to cheat?
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Guest post by Rachel Wood, PhD Candidate studying AI and the future of work, education, and relationships: LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/rachelwoodphd
Opinions expressed are those of the guest blogger.
Every night at bedtime, I sing songs with my son. We snuggle close as the lyrics “lullaby and goodnight, go to sleep…” dance off our lips. Lately, he has begun asking me to make up songs about various important objects in his life- blue blankey, mister fox, and big excavators. I sing songs on the spot that tie melodies to his little world of things. One night, out of his mouth comes “sing a song about Ms. Davey”. Delightfully surprised, I met this request with a smile in my heart because of how it exemplified the fondness he feels toward his school teacher.
Educators are irreplaceable. They are far more than academic messengers; they serve as overseers of students’ psychological wellbeing. Learning has been and always will be a social experience. We learn from teachers, from peers, from successes, from mistakes, and from interactions with others. Sure, we learn our academic material, but more so, we learn social and relational skills. We begin to learn our place in the world as we rub shoulders with others. Relationships are the foundation for motivation and learning (McKay & Macomber, 2023). Educators offer numerous key psychological and relational nutrients, two of which are object constancy and friction. These unique human components are increasingly important to instill in students amidst a world of proliferating emerging technologies.
Object Constancy
Definition: object constancy begins when the “empathic parent holds a vision of the future child and in various ways mediates this vision to the child. The child, in identification with it, can then grow. By internalizing aspects of the parent, the child also internalizes the parent’s image of the child…a primary concern for a teacher is the aiding in the growth and development of another. The idea that teacher’s capacity to imagine future growth, anticipate something for the student, hold that in mind for them, and offer that vision is a reflective way of expanding possibilities and potentialities for them. Perhaps in this way, the successful, authentic, and autonomous student begins in the mind of the teacher” (Danze, 2022, pg. 149).
As overseers of students’ psychological and emotional development, educators contribute to the formation of students’ object constancy. Object constancy is a psychological concept describing how we acquire our internal voice. When we are young, parental figures, family members, and teachers speak into us and speak over us. The tone and content of these voices become embedded in our developing identities. Over time, and with enough repetition, these voices become our own internal voice. For better or for worse, what we hear in our early developmental stages sticks with us. Object constancy is when we internalize external voices, making them our own inner dialog.
Educators contribute to students’ developing object constancy on a regular basis; recognizing achievements, applauding kindness, and course-correcting missteps. Teachers even have the privilege of helping rewire negative voices ringing in students’ ears. Neuroplasticity is the science that reveals how we can change our thoughts, feelings, and actions, unlearning that which is detrimental and instead, learning what is beneficial. A consistent, encouraging voice from a teacher can act as a counterpoint to disparaging voices that may be lingering in students’ minds. Just as educators help students internalize positive voices, they also create opportunities for students to learn from challenges.
Friction
Definition: friction is “shap[ing] learning as people with different backgrounds and skill sets engage with each other on real problems if these people are provided with the right context. Productive friction is particularly valuable at boundaries because it exposes people to different ways of seeing problems and the potential solutions” (Ward et al., 2011).
All human relationships contain some degree of friction. Friction is the concept of learning through challenges. Friction may be small or great, it may be above or below the surface, and it may be beneficial or consequential. Friction is a necessary element of relationships because it teaches us to consider others, compromise, and reduces our tendency toward self-absorption. Educators encourage, yes, but they also challenge. Both are equally important. Excellent educators can gauge the individual balance for each student between encouragement and challenge. This both affirms students as they are and calls them forward to who they can be.
AI and Educators
Definition: Artificial Intelligence, AI is broadly defined as giving a computer human-like capabilities, such as understanding, problem-solving, and reasoning (Enholm et al., 2022).
Object constancy and friction are two components of relationships that cannot be replaced by emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). Sure, on a superficial level you could prompt a Generative AI Large Language Model to mimic these relational elements, but they come naturally in human interactions. There are specific use cases for AI that can offer support in the form of augmentation for teachers who are overwhelmed with work yet longing to return to what led them to education in the beginning: the opportunity to positively influence students through relational connection. There is a place for AI in the classroom that does not threaten but enhances the role of the teacher. Drawing the conclusion that we must choose between teachers and AI is a false dichotomy. Augmenting work with AI can serve as a catalyst to redesign the vocational identity of educators. This ever-present help can afford teachers the opportunity to once again return to a primary role of relational facilitator and guide. Bringing AI into the classroom cannot and will not replace educators, but it may open the door for administrative burdens to lighten and therefore relational dynamics to increase.
The vital role of educators extends beyond the confines of academic instruction, shaping students’ emotional and psychological landscapes through concepts like object constancy and friction. Just as the simple yet profound request to “sing a song about Ms. Davey” highlights the deep bond students form with their teachers, it underscores the immeasurable value of human connection in education. Successful integration of AI into the classroom is predicated upon the fact that technology complements, not replaces, the relational essence of teaching. Leveraging AI to assist with administrative tasks allows educators to return to their core mission: fostering meaningful relationships that guide and shape students’ development. So tonight, as we sing about Ms. Davey, and by extension countless other educators, may AI serve as a tool to enhance impact, and bolster ongoing service in the name of young minds.
References
Danze, E. (2022). How the psychoanalytic use of object constancy and internalization can inform our understanding of the teacher/student relationship. ACSA 110th Annual Meeting. https://www.acsa- arch.org/proceedings/Annual%20Meeting%20Proceedings/ACSA.AM.110/ACSA.AM.1 10.20.pdf?v=2
Enholm, I. M., Papagiannidis, E., Mikalef, P., & Krogstie, J. (2022). Artificial intelligence and business value: A literature review. Information Systems Frontiers, 24(5), 1709-1734. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10796-021-10186-w
McKay, C., & Macomber, G. (2023). The Importance of Relationships in Education: Reflections of Current Educators. Journal of Education, 203(4), 751-758.
Ward, C. J., Nolen, S. B., and Horn, I. S. (2011). Productive friction: How conflict in student teaching creates opportunities for learning at the boundary. International Journal of Educational Research, 50(1), 14-20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2011.04.004
Interested in guest blogging or Rachelle’s consulting services?
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In collaboration with Noodle Factory, all opinions are my own.
As an educator constantly seeking innovative methods to enhance learning and teaching, my exploration recently led me to an exciting platform: Noodle Factory. When I find a new tool, especially when it comes to AI, I love sharing my experiences so that other educators can get started.
It has been fun exploring its various options and, in particular, its standout features, such as Walter+, the AI teaching assistant designed for grades K through 12. Walter+ is designed to help educators enhance and transform the learning experiences they provide for students. Noodle Factory makes it easy to get started by providing guidance, being available for questions, and even doing a demo! For any educator wondering where to begin with AI in their classroom, I definitely recommend exploring Noodle Factory and seeing the impact on student learning. Giving students a chance to learn about and interact with AI is important.
Why AI in Education Matters
The integration of AI in education is reshaping how educators deliver the content and impacting how students engage with the material. With purposeful use and the right pedagogical practices, AI tools can assist educators in various ways. It can help to personalize learning, automate grading, and create engaging, interactive content while complementing traditional teaching methods. Noodle Factory provides tools that are not just innovative but also intuitive and effective for use in the classroom. Especially as educators seek more efficient ways to deliver instruction and provide feedback to students, knowing how to leverage the power of AI is key. Noodle Factory offers innovative tools that enhance both learning and teaching processes.
First Experiences with Noodle Factory
When I first started with Noodle Factory, I was quite surprised by how easy it was to generate personalized learning resources for students. By uploading some of my teaching materials onto the platform, I saw how Walter+ tailored these resources into personalized learning experiences. I was impressed with its AI-driven dialogue system, which engages students in meaningful conversations and helps enhance their overall comprehension and retention of the content.
Using AI-powered tools such as Walter+ to create personalized learning experiences has been a game changer. I uploaded my teaching materials and waited briefly while Walter transformed them into interactive, engaging learning modules specific to my students’ needs. Noodle Factory’s ability to generate context-aware conversation flows and also, its ability to provide multilingual support enables educators to effectively reach students coming from different language backgrounds.
My favorite Noodle Factory Features
There are great features in Noodle Factory that will significantly impact teaching and students’ learning:
AI-driven Personalized Learning: Walter+ adapts to each student’s learning pace, helping to promote a more inclusive and effective learning environment.
We know that in order to accommodate students’ diverse learning needs, we have to understand where they are in the learning process and provide authentic, meaningful, and timely feedback. When this is possible in real-time, teachers can adjust, and each student can receive tailored educational experiences, which we know is crucial for learning. It provides students with instant, constructive feedback, which is key to fostering their academic growth.
Automated Grading and Feedback: We know that grading can take a great deal of time, especially when providing specific feedback for students. With Noodle Factory, educators can save time and provide students with immediate, actionable feedback, helping them understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This, of course, means that teachers can spend more time working directly with students, too!
Engaging and Interactive Content Creation Tools: With the various options available, I am able to boost student engagement. Noodle Factory’s tools enable me to transform traditional lessons into more interactive sessions that spark students’ interest and foster deeper learning. Student engagement, which can be a challenge, is now an area that we can boost because of the tools available to us.
Results: Positive Impact on Teaching and Learning!
By using Noodle Factory, educators will see a boost in student engagement and learning performance. Noodle Factory helps with our productivity through its features, such as automated grading and real-time insights into students’ progress. Being able to grab a quick glimpse into where students are in the learning journey is so helpful for targeting our instruction as needed. Gathering feedback from students is also important as it helps us to know what works for them and how to enhance their learning experiences. It also assists with providing a personalized approach through an interactive learning environment.
The real-time performance tracking and flexible assessment modules help teachers tailor their teaching strategies in real time to best meet individual student needs. Give Noodle Factory a try today and see the impact it makes in your classroom, for students, and for your work as an educator!
Interested in experiencing this transformative tool? Great news! I’m offering an exclusive code for my readers to try the premium plan (Educator Plus) on Noodle Factory. Discover how Walter+ can enhance your teaching and provide your students with an unmatched educational experience. And be sure to let me know how it goes for you!
P.S. Check out my podcast episode, where I chat with the Co-Founders of Noodle Factory Yvonne and Jim! Listen here!
About the Author:
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or your event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
**Interested in writing a guest blog for my site? Would love to share your ideas! Submit your post here. Looking for a new book to read? Find these available at bit.ly/Pothbooks
************ Also check out my THRIVEinEDU PodcastHere!
Join my show on THRIVEinEDU on Facebook. Join the group here.
In collaboration with MatataStudio EDU, Opinions are my own
The Nous AI Set is one of MatataStudio’s standout products. I have used all of their other great products in my classroom and have been amazed by what you can do with the Nous Set!
I had a chance to stop by their booth while attending and presenting at ISTE 2024 in Denver. It was awesome to see all of their fabulous products for students of all ages! It was also great to speak with their amazing team and learn about the options and new resources that are coming from MatataStudio for students! Thank you, Vivian!
[At the booth during ISTE, so many awesome learning resources to explore!]
Nous AI is designed to provide students with an understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and enable them to build their knowledge through the various activities they can choose from and complete independently! What makes Nous different is its modular design. Students can choose how to design it, which allows it to support a variety of AI technologies and functions. Students can learn about machine learning, neural networks, machine vision, speech recognition, and autonomous driving capabilities, and more. It also offers tools like MatataChat and a range of other AI applications that are available right on its touchscreen.
The robot comes with a metal structure, and it is also compatible with building block structures, so it is a versatile tool for boosting creativity and problem-solving in its assembly and through robotics projects. The expandable electronic module system allows students to customize and enhance their projects, fostering a sense of ownership and creativity and leading to more authentic learning. Whether it’s programming with graphical interfaces or diving into Python programming, the Nous AI Set provides students with a comprehensive platform to explore the world of AI and have fun while doing so.
Engaging in Design and Engineering Thinking
What I appreciate about the Nous AI Set is how it encourages students to engage in design and engineering thinking, which helps them develop a greater interest in the learning process. In my classroom, I’ve seen students become deeply involved in designing, building, and testing their projects. A hands-on approach to learning is essential for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for future careers in STEM fields and beneficial in so many areas.
The Nous AI Set allows students to iterate on their designs, test different solutions, and refine their projects as they go. This iterative process is key to helping students build essential skills such as resilience and problem-solving. When students learn to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as obstacles, it provides them with skills that will benefit them now and as they prepare for the future. By focusing on the learning process rather than just the final product, students develop a deeper understanding of the principles of engineering and design.
Why should you explore Nous AI?
The Nous AI Robot is a transformative tool for STEAM education and works well in any classroom. MatataStudio offers options for each grade band and provides educators with a comprehensive and engaging way to teach AI and coding to all students. Its modular design, dual programming capabilities, and extensive learning resources make it suitable for students of varying skill levels and interests.
There are many possibilities, and with the Nous AI Set, we can help better prepare students for the future. As an educator who has seen the great impact on student collaboration in building the robot and the ideas that students generated, I recommend the Nous AI Robot for any classroom looking to incorporate AI and robotics into their curriculum, especially as a fun, impactful way to start a new school year! And explore new ideas and challenges throughout the year.
Whether you have years of experience or are new to teaching AI and coding, the Nous AI Robot provides the tools and resources to create a dynamic and interactive learning environment. The focus on hands-on learning and building connections to real-world applications ensures that students not only learn but also experience the exciting world of AI and robotics. There are so many tutorials available to help educators and students get started!
Real-World Applications
The Nous AI Robot is not just a learning tool; it also provides students with insights into real-world AI applications. For example, students can dive in and learn about AI through its activities focused on image recognition, speech recognition, and autonomous driving. Students can see how AI technologies are used in everyday life. These opportunities help students see the relevance of what they are learning, and hopefully, it will inspire them to pursue careers in AI and technology. It is so easy to use with its programmable touchscreen, which sparks curiosity for learning!
Project-based learning (PBL) is a great way to engage students in authentic, meaningful, and real-world learning. It is an essential component of the Nous AI curriculum. Students engage in projects that require them to build and then apply their knowledge of AI, programming, and engineering. The projects help reinforce AI concepts through practical application, which makes learning more effective, memorable, and fun for all students!
The Right Resources for Educators
MatataStudio doesn’t just provide innovative tools—they also offer fantastic learning resources to support educators and students. Educators can access online tutorials and curriculum guides, and various professional development resources are available. MatataStudio ensures that educators have everything they need to effectively integrate the Nous AI Set into their classrooms. These resources are invaluable in helping educators guide their students through the various functionalities of the robot, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of AI and programming.
I had a chance to explore these guides, and everything educators need to get started is available!
The curriculum guides provided by MatataStudio align with CSTA (Computer Science Teachers Association) and ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) standards, as well as the 5 Big Ideas in AI, ensuring that the content is relevant and aligned with best practices in education.
As a STEAM educator who greatly values bringing STEM to all classrooms and learning about AI, I appreciate the resources provided because they are incredibly helpful for educators who want to plan and deliver lessons that are engaging and educational for all students.
With these options, educators don’t have to worry about spending a lot of time looking for the right resources and lessons to dive in. MatataStudio provides everything you need to get students started and let them take the lead! Create and innovate in our classrooms!
About the Author:
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader and served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. She was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024 by EdTech Digest, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or your event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
**Interested in writing a guest blog for my site? Would love to share your ideas! Submit your post here. Looking for a new book to read? Find these available at bit.ly/Pothbooks
A slight update of my first post on AI in 2018. Image above generated by AI.
Over the past seven years, I have focused on learning more about artificial intelligence. Initially I thought I understood the meaning of AI. But I did not.
In early 2018, I noticed that AI was becoming an increasingly popular topic of discussion in the blogs that I was reading and in social media posts. When I first started thinking of AI, I had a flashback to the 2004 movie I, Robot, which starred Will Smith. In the movie, set in 2035, robots filled public service positions and were able to think like humans and take action. Then, I thought about virtual assistants such as Alexa and Siri. But what is AI, and how do we use it daily?
What is AI?
A quick Google search turns up more than 615 million results. AI is computer code that displays some form of intelligence, learning and problem-solving in what has been referred to as a “super intelligence.” AI “learns” on its own, and makes adjustments and improvements based on past iterations. As AI becomes “smarter,” its knowledge base grows, and it is able to complete more tasks. Digging a little deeper, I found #AskAboutAI, a research project launched by Getting Smart, which identified over 100 applications of AI.
Shehzad Najib, CEO and co-founder of Kinteract, told me a few years ago: “You shouldn’t notice that AI is working. You should notice that life is easier and you’re saving time.”
Keep that in mind. Here are a few ways that we interact with AI daily:
Communication: We all use email and receive a lot of spam. AI is used to streamline the amount of spam allowed through filters, and it continues to learn over time as you mark items as spam.
Travel: If you use driving apps such as Uber or Lyft, you have experienced machine learning, a form of AI that determines your estimated arrival time. In the airline industry, “human-steered” flight time is estimated to be about seven minutes, leaving the rest to autopilot, which is AI.
Social networks: Most people are engaging in some form of social media use. Years ago, Facebook shared results of how AI successfully detects spam but was not as successful at detecting hate speech or cyberbullying. When photos are used in social media, AI uses facial detection to suggest a name for photo tagging. If you’ve wondered how it recognizes your friends and family without even typing a name into the platform. It learns over time.
Shopping: Many people use Amazon and similar services. They are quite helpful, and who doesn’t appreciate it when suggestions are provided for other items of interest? AI analyzes your prior data and makes decisions based on your preferences over time.
Fraud protection: When making purchases online or in person, systems analyze your purchasing trends and locations and can immediately flag and send alerts for unusual transactions.
Were you familiar with all of these AI uses? Thinking back to Shehzad’s statement, these do save time and often go unnoticed because they are just performing what they have been programmed to do.
What can AI do for education?
One of the most interesting articles that I read during my initial research, came from an article in Forbes, which highlighted 10 ways to use AI in education. Looking at these, how much has changed? Remember, this article is from nearly 10 years ago, which was the original post before its update in 2017.
AI can automate basic activities in education, such as grading.
Educational software can be adapted to student needs.
AI can point out places where courses need improvements.
AI tutors can help support students.
AI-driven programs can give students and educators helpful feedback.
AI is altering how we find and interact with information.
AI could change teachers’ roles.
AI can make trial-and-error learning less intimidating.
Data powered by AI can change how schools find, teach, and support students.
AI could change where students learn, who teaches them, and how students acquire basic skills.
Regardless of the technology we choose to explore and use in education, we have to focus on the technology’s purpose. What are the benefits of using AI? Is it practical to use AI?
Time is always a consideration, and when it comes to providing authentic, meaningful, and personalized learning experiences for our students, we need to make the most of it. AI can make an impact here.
For example, students and teachers can connect and have instant access to resources that meet their specific needs. AI will make decisions based on responses and interactions.
AI can save teachers time in grading and help to provide differentiated instruction that adjusts as students continue to work through class materials. AI analyzes data faster, so teachers can act on it faster and, again, have more time to work with students.
We must actively explore the resources that are being shared in the education world today. There are many blogs, books, podcasts, webinars, and other learning opportunities for educators. We have so many digital tools available to choose from. Have fun exploring but be mindful of not just the possibilities, but always focus on our responsibilities as educators.
If you want to learn more, check out recent Edutopia and Getting Smart blogs. Many AI books are available, including my recent book. Keep on learning and growing, and don’t be afraid of not being the expert. We are all learning as we go!
About the Author:
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or your event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
**Interested in writing a guest blog for my site? Would love to share your ideas! Submit your post here. Looking for a new book to read? Find these available at bit.ly/Pothbooks
************ Also check out my THRIVEinEDU PodcastHere!
Join my show on THRIVEinEDU on Facebook. Join the group here.
Over the past few years, we have seen many changes in education. We live in an increasingly digital world that involves rapid technological advancements through emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). The technologies are not only impacting our lives as educators, but they are impacting the world of work our students will enter.
To best prepare our students, educators must constantly adapt and evolve to keep up with these changes. However, there are challenges when it comes to these technologies: a lack of professional learning opportunities, not enough time to participate, and uncertainty about the best options for learning. Bringing in new technology can also feel like adding to an already overflowing plate.
Beyond the basic technology skills that educators need for every day teaching, they also need to be knowledgeable about emerging technologies, particularly AI, and how to bring them into their classrooms. With these technologies impacting our work, especially with the capabilities of AI to generate content and concerns about the impact of this technology on our work, it is essential that educators receive training. Over the past five years, my work has focused on collaborating with teachers to get them started with emerging technology including, more recently, AI. Here are some things that work when designing AI-related professional learning.
AI professional development for educators
Professional development focused on implementing classroom technology goes beyond simply training educators to use it and apply it to their curriculum. It requires rich and personalized learning experiences that will engage educators and enable them to see the possibilities for amplifying learning through educational technology.
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or your event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
**Interested in writing a guest blog for my site? Would love to share your ideas! Submit your post here. Looking for a new book to read? Find these available at bit.ly/Pothbooks
************ Also check out my THRIVEinEDU PodcastHere!
Join my show on THRIVEinEDU on Facebook. Join the group here.
In collaboration with MatataStudio EDU, All opinions are my own
When it comes to STEAM courses (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), especially in the past year and a half, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics has increased. AI can no longer be thought of as a passing fad or trend; instead, it is a necessity for students in all classrooms.
For many years, I didn’t think I could bring these opportunities to my students; however, I have realized that to best prepare all students, every educator needs to include activities that help students develop their skills in these growing areas.
As a Spanish and STEAM teacher, I bring in a variety of learning experiences for all students to engage in innovative learning opportunities. Over the past three years, we have really enjoyed working with the robots and coding resources from MatataStudio, and we were thrilled to get the newest model, the Nous AI Set! My motivation for selecting this was the focus on AI, one of my key areas of interest for the past seven years! I also love seeing how students respond to the new tools we use, how they dive in and collaborate, and what they create! Remember, we just need to get them started and then see where the learning journey takes them and learn from their experiences, too!
With Matata, we started by testing the Tale-Bot Pro, VinciBot, and now Nous AI Set. What I value the most is that there are tools for all learners of all levels. Even though I teach an 8th-grade STEAM class, we still explore the different robots to understand the students’ learning experience. Now, we are excited about the Nous AI Set and the variety of ways you can build and learn from it!
What is Nous AI?
The Nous AI Set is a modular AI educational tool that will revolutionize how educators teach their students about coding and AI. As an 8th-grade STEAM educator, I had the opportunity to explore this innovative tool. It is always fun to dive in and see the benefits and then share our learning with other educators. It helps others know what to expect and how to get started, answers some common questions, and hopefully provides some ideas, too! We will look at its capabilities, its educational value, and how it can be a game-changer in the classroom.
Benefits and Features
The Nous AI Set will support comprehensive AI education for both primary and secondary schools. It offers a wide range of AI technologies and functionalities. This robot is designed to be suitable for students aged 12 and up. The focus areas for working with the Nous AI Set are for developing computational and design thinking skills and problem-solving skills. In addition to these 21st-century and in-demand skills, it will also help students develop their digital literacy skills, which are essential in today’s advancing digital world.
Key Features and Capabilities of the Nous AI Set
Modular Design and Compatibility
At first, I did not realize the different options for creating the robot. With the Nous AI Set, multiple options are available. It has a highly modular design that is compatible with various structures and electronic modules. Through different options, it helps to spark creativity and allows students to build and program a wide range of projects. Whether students design simple robots or dive into creating more complex AI-driven tasks, the possibilities are endless! And student engagement and motivation in learning increases!
Programming that meets your needs!
Something that I really appreciate about the Nous AI Set is its dual programming capability. Beginners can start with block-based programming (Blockly) to learn basic AI functions such as face detection and image classification. As they progress, students can transition to text-based programming (Python), exploring advanced AI concepts like machine learning, neural networks, and autonomous driving.
[We built it this way first]
Teach students about Machine Learning
MatataStudio’s Nous AI Set covers fundamental AI topics, including machine learning, computer vision, and speech recognition. It supports AI model training and data collection. When students learn through a more hands-on approach, they can connect with and understand complex AI concepts by engaging in practical application and meaningful and relevant learning. Working together, they develop these essential skills and have fun learning!
[Trying to figure out how to assemble it, letting students take the lead!]
The Right Resources!
MatataStudio provides extensive learning resources for all of its products. Educators know that they are supported through access to online tutorials, e-books, and even video-based courses. The resources are beneficial because not only do they support educators, but they also help guide students through the various functionalities of the robot, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of AI and programming.
Engaging in Design and Engineering Thinking
The Nous AI Set’s design encourages students to think, process information, solve problems, and think like engineers. Students can design and build their projects, test different solutions, and iterate on their designs. We want students to focus on the ongoing learning process rather than a finite product. This learning process promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for future engineers, scientists, and other in-demand STEM-related fields.
What I love about the Nous AI Set is that there are so many choices available and tutorials to help you get started! See some examples below.
Improving Digital Literacy
Being digitally literate is crucial in today’s digital age. By using the Nous AI Set, students improve their digital literacy by engaging in programming and AI applications. They have opportunities to learn how to use technology creatively and responsibly, which will best prepare them for future digital challenges.
From passive to active learning!
The Nous AI Set offers a variety of interactive activities that make learning more engaging and fun. Students shift from being consumers of learning to becoming more active creators. Activities like MatataChat and MatataDraw allow students to explore basic computer vision and speech recognition. These activities lead to discussions between students and will spark curiosity about learning. The activities are not only educational but also highly engaging, keeping students motivated and interested.
[Working on a project and following the steps closely to see all of its capabilities.]
Real-World Applications
The Nous AI Set is not just a learning tool; it also provides students with insights into real-world AI applications. For instance, through activities involving image recognition, speech recognition, and autonomous driving, students can see how AI technologies are used in everyday life. This exposure helps them understand the relevance of what they are learning and inspires them to pursue careers in AI and technology.
Why should you explore Nous AI?
There are so many possibilities, and with the Nous AI Set, we will better prepare students for the future. As an educator who has seen the collaboration in building and the ideas that students generated, I recommend the Nous AI Set for any classroom looking to incorporate AI and robotics into their curriculum.
About the Author:
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of nine books including ‘In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or your event! Submit the Contact Form.
Follow Rachelle on Twitter(X) and Instagram at @Rdene915
**Interested in writing a guest blog for my site? Would love to share your ideas! Submit your post here. Looking for a new book to read? Find these available at bit.ly/Pothbooks
************ Also check out my THRIVEinEDU PodcastHere!
Join my show on THRIVEinEDU on Facebook. Join the group here.
Learning as I go: Reflections & lessons learned 