EdTech Situation Room by Jason Neiffer and Wes Fryer-logo

EdTech Situation Room by Jason Neiffer and Wes Fryer

Education Podcasts

where technology news meets educational analysis

Location:

United States

Description:

where technology news meets educational analysis

Language:

English


Episodes

EdTechSR Ep 321: AI Integration Insights

3/16/2024
Welcome to episode 321 (“AI Integration Insights”) of the EdTech Situation Room from March 6, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (aicentrist.com) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com) explored the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its profound implications for education and technology. Amidst the scenic backdrop of the NCTIES conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, and the anticipation of spring break, the co-hosts delved into pressing topics that captivate the attention of educators and tech enthusiasts alike. The conversation kicked off with insights into the significance of AI integration in educational settings, reflecting on how these technologies are reshaping teaching, learning, and professional development. The co-hosts examined the latest developments in AI legislation, highlighting its impact on educational technology and policy. The discussion ventured into the realm of digital privacy, with a focus on recent executive orders aimed at curbing the sale of personal data to foreign entities, underscoring the ongoing challenges and ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and security. A highlight of the episode was the exploration of innovative AI tools and platforms, offering a glimpse into the future of education and the potential of AI to enhance learning experiences. Dr. Neiffer shared his experiences with AI integration in the Montana Digital Academy, while Dr. Fryer provided insights from his role as a middle school media literacy and STEM teacher. In light of the NCTIES 2024 conference, the co-hosts discussed the importance of collaborative professional development and the exchange of ideas among educators. The episode also touched on broader implications of AI on educational practices, the dynamics of digital education, and the role of technology in addressing contemporary challenges in the education sector. "Geeks of the Week" included notable mentions of the latest AI-driven educational tools and resources, offering valuable insights for educators aiming to leverage technology in enhancing learning environments. However, the specific "Geeks of the Week" links from this episode are not provided here. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow us on Facebook, Mastodon and Substack, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:07:36

EdTechSR Ep 320 Privacy and Platform Shifts

3/16/2024
Welcome to episode 320 ("Privacy and Platform Shifts") of the EdTech Situation Room from February 21, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer and Dr. Wesley Fryer, joining from their diverse locales of Montana and North Carolina, dove into a rich dialogue exploring the evolving landscape of digital privacy, the shift in platforms due to new technological integrations, and the profound implications for educators and learners. In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, the co-hosts unpacked the potential of AI in revolutionizing not just educational practices but also the broader societal interactions, drawing attention to the pressing issues of digital droughts affecting agricultural economies and the potential for wildfire risks. The discussion ventured into the realms of policy, with insights into legislation aimed at protecting youth online, and the innovative strides in virtual reality, highlighting the quest for immersive learning environments. As digital citizenship continues to be a pivotal theme, Fryer and Neiffer emphasized the importance of navigating the complexities of tech integration with foresight and ethical consideration. "Geeks of the Week" included an exploration of perplexity AI as a tool for enhancing research and the groundbreaking developments in virtual reality, pointing towards a future where education transcends traditional boundaries. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow our @EdtechSR page on Facebook, mastodon.education/@edtechsr on Mastodon for updates, subscribe to us on Substack, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:03:21

EdTechSR Ep 319 Tech Titans Testify

3/16/2024
Welcome to episode 319 ("Tech Titans Testify") of the EdTech Situation Room from January 31, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (aicentrist.com) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com) delved into a variety of current topics at the intersection of technology, education, and policy. Discussions kicked off with an exploration of the unusual weather patterns affecting the United States, including an unprecedented heatwave followed by a forecast of more snow, showcasing the bizarre weather phenomena exacerbated by climate change. The conversation quickly pivoted to pressing cybersecurity concerns, highlighting FBI warnings about potential Chinese cyberattacks on U.S. critical infrastructure. The episode also covered the testimony of tech CEOs before Congress, where topics ranged from social media's impact on youth to digital privacy challenges and the responsibilities of tech companies in moderating content. In a lighter vein, Dr. Fryer shared exciting updates from the Webb Space Telescope, offering a glimpse into the universe's marvels and the scientific community's latest discoveries. The episode further discussed the rise of artificial intelligence, its implications for education and security, and the innovative uses of AI in creating new educational content and tools. Reflecting on the digital landscape, the hosts touched upon the evolving role of smart speakers and the potential shifts in browser technologies, pointing to a future where technology is increasingly integrated into our daily lives and learning environments. "Geeks of the Week" included a nod to the Hardfork podcast for its insightful analysis of media and journalism's digital transformation and the Voices of DARPA podcast, shedding light on defense research projects that could influence future educational technologies. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow our @EdtechSR page on Facebook, mastodon.education/@edtechsr on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:08:44

EdTechSR Ep 318 Deepfake Democratic Threats

3/15/2024
Welcome to episode 318 (“Deepfake Democratic Threats”) of the EdTech Situation Room from January 24, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (aicentrist.com) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com) on a comprehensive exploration of the latest developments in artificial intelligence, copyright laws, and the impact of technology in education and society at large. The conversation kicked off with a deep dive into Meta's investment in Nvidia AI chips, underscoring Mark Zuckerberg's commitment to bolstering AI capabilities with billions of dollars. This move signals a significant shift towards more advanced AI integrations across various platforms and services. In the realm of AI and intellectual property, the hosts discussed the new certificates for copyright-compliant AI, highlighting the challenges and controversies surrounding AI-generated content and its compliance with copyright laws. Despite these efforts, notable tools like ChatGPT have faced scrutiny for potential copyright issues. A concerning trend in the misuse of AI technology was addressed through the discussion of a fake Joe Biden robocall, which misled voters in New Hampshire. This incident illustrates the growing problem of deepfake technologies and their potential to disrupt democratic processes. The hosts also delved into the legal and ethical dimensions of AI, discussing perspectives on whether training generative AI models on copyrighted works constitutes fair use. This topic sparked a debate on the future of intellectual property in an AI-dominated landscape. From an economic viewpoint, a MIT study shed light on the limitations of job automation by AI, suggesting that only a fraction of tasks involving vision are economically viable for AI automation. This finding prompts a reevaluation of AI's impact on the workforce and the need for a balanced approach to integrating these technologies. On the technological front, updates to Google Chrome and ChromeOS were discussed, including new generative AI features and enhancements aimed at improving user productivity and focus. The hosts also touched on Google’s latest AI video generator, Lumiere, capable of creating whimsical scenarios featuring cute animals, showcasing the lighter side of AI advancements. Apple's recent developments were a hot topic, with discussions on the App Store rule changes, the sale of Vision Pro headsets, and innovative features like Stolen Device Protection to safeguard iPhones against theft. The conversation also highlighted Apple's plans to integrate generative AI into iPhones, emphasizing the company's strategic direction towards embracing AI technology. In education, the release of Microsoft's AI-powered reading tutor as a free resource marked a significant milestone in leveraging AI to enhance learning experiences. The update to the National Ed-Tech Plan, its first since 2017, was praised for its forward-looking vision in integrating technology into education. Finally, the hosts reflected on the dire consequences of accessing forbidden content in North Korea, as highlighted in a BBC report, and the vulnerabilities of cash apps in facilitating theft, underscoring the broader societal implications of technology adoption and security. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow our @EdtechSR page on Facebook, @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:06:25

EdTechSR Ep 317 Digital Privacy Predicaments

2/18/2024
Welcome to episode 317 ("Digital Privacy Predicaments") of the EdTech Situation Room from January 17, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (AIcentrist.com) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) delved into pressing issues surrounding digital privacy, the ethical implications of AI in education, and the latest advancements in EdTech tools and platforms. Highlights of the discussion included the evolving landscape of digital privacy laws, innovative uses of AI in the classroom, and the potential impacts of new technology policies on educators and students. The episode also covered key updates from major tech companies and their influence on educational technology. "Geeks of the Week" featured insightful resources and tools beneficial for educators. Although the specific "Geeks of the Week" links from this episode are not provided here, they typically include cutting-edge educational tools, tips, and articles shared by Jason and Wes, contributing to the professional growth of educators and the enhancement of learning environments with technology. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:06:10

EdTechSR Ep 316 AI Legislative Insights

1/25/2024
Welcome to episode 316 (“AI Legislative Insights”) of the EdTech Situation Room from January 10, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (aicentrist.com) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed a range of topics focusing on the intersection of technology, education, and policy. Key discussions included the latest developments in AI legislation and its impact on educational technology, in-depth analysis of current tech trends, and thoughtful debates on various EdTech policies. The episode also delved into the broader implications of AI on educational practices and the dynamics of digital education. 'Geeks of the Week' included the Everyday AI Podcast, Beeper (software which integrates multiple chat apps) and the AI Resource Guides from EdTech PlayDate CLT. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:10:47

EdTechSR Ep 315 Debriefing Our AI PlayDate

1/10/2024
Welcome to episode 315 (“Debriefing Our AI PlayDate”) of the EdTech Situation Room from January 3, 2024, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (AIcentrist.com) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after), along with their special guest, Dr. Heather Kaiser, delved into a variety of thought-provoking topics. Dr. Kaiser, drawing on her experience as an online fifth-grade teacher, shared valuable insights on the effectiveness of Learning Management Systems and strategies for engaging students in virtual classrooms. The conversation then shifted to the burgeoning role of AI in education, exploring innovative AI tools and their potential to revolutionize teaching and learning. Highlighting the gamification of education, Dr. Kaiser shared how she incorporates tools like Classcraft, enhanced by AI technologies, to create immersive and engaging learning experiences. The episode also touched upon the significance of collaborative professional development and the sharing of resources, with a focus on "EdTech PlayDates" as a platform for such interactions. Discussions on emerging technologies brought to light new developments like ARM-based processors in Microsoft devices, Microsoft Co-Pilot, and their implications for education. The co-hosts also addressed pressing issues like the mental health impacts of social media on adolescents, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures and responsible technology usage. To conclude, the "Geeks of the Week" segment featured a variety of tools and resources. Dr. Kaiser recommended Mizu and Snorkel for creating interactive learning experiences, while Dr. Neiffer highlighted Sunno, an AI-powered music creation tool. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of AI, technology, and education, providing valuable insights for educators navigating the digital landscape. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:08:44

EdTechSR Ep 314 Tech Giants' AI Race

12/21/2023
Welcome to episode 314 (“Tech Giants' AI Race”) of the EdTech Situation Room from December 20, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed the rapid advancements and implications of AI technologies, particularly the intensifying competition among tech giants in the AI space. The episode delved into the latest developments in AI-powered tools and services, exploring how these innovations are reshaping the landscape of information access, content creation, and digital interaction. Additionally, the conversation touched on the ethical and societal challenges posed by these technologies, including concerns about privacy, misinformation, and the potential for misuse. Amidst these discussions, the show also highlighted the importance of media literacy and critical thinking skills in navigating the increasingly AI-driven world. "Geeks of the Week" included the Vivaldi web browser, "Seven Things We Learned Analyzing 515 Million Wordles" by the New York Times, and Vanity Fair's " and Inside The New York Times’ Big Bet on Games." Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:06:08

EdTechSR Ep 313: Navigating AI Regulations

12/15/2023
Welcome to episode 313 ("Navigating AI Regulations") of the EdTech Situation Room from December 13, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed a range of topics central to the intersection of technology and education. The conversation highlighted significant developments in artificial intelligence, focusing on the ethical implications and social impact of these advancements. They explored the role of AI in educational contexts and the importance of digital literacy, especially for younger audiences. The episode delved into the latest technological innovations, particularly those in AI and related fields. Neiffer and Fryer also discussed the critical aspects of policy and regulation surrounding AI, addressing new laws and their potential impact on both education and society at large. The influence and role of social media platforms in education were scrutinized, underlining the need for effective digital literacy and safety practices. In addition to these discussions, "Geeks of the Week" included the DotSocial Podcast by Mike McCue, VCam for Mac (Beta), and a post about "Using LLMs locally on iPad or iPhone." Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:04:47

EdTechSR Ep 312: A Very Techy Holiday

12/8/2023
Welcome to episode 312 ("A Very Techy Holiday") of the EdTech Situation Room from December 6, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (@wfryer@mastodon.cloud) dived into their annual holiday gift guide, offering a wealth of suggestions for tech enthusiasts. The hosts explored a variety of categories, including family memories, cooking, meat smoking, tech gadgets for both Apple and non-Apple users, auto-related technology, and kitchy nerdy items. They shared personal insights and recommendations, making it easier for listeners to pick the perfect tech gifts. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of preserving oral history and family memories, providing tips and tools for capturing these invaluable stories. "Geeks of the Week" included ClipDrop and Wes' Social Media Text Prepper on GitHub. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:05:08

EdTechSR Ep 311 AI's Evolving Landscape

12/1/2023
Welcome to episode 311 (“AI's Evolving Landscape”) of the EdTech Situation Room from November 29, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) explored a range of topics primarily centered around the evolving world of artificial intelligence. Key discussions included the latest advancements in AI and their implications for both education and broader societal contexts. The episode delved into the ethical considerations of AI deployment, particularly focusing on transparency and ethical AI use. An interesting segment covered how AI is revolutionizing traditional sectors, like weather forecasting, providing more accurate and timely predictions. Additionally, the conversation turned to practical applications of AI in everyday life, such as the development of AI-powered tools for crafting more effective emails. The hosts also discussed the importance of local AI models and their potential to offer customized solutions tailored to specific regional needs and contexts. In the “Geeks of the Week” segment, Dr. Neiffer and Dr. Fryer shared their latest tech finds and recommendations, highlighting tools and resources that leverage AI in innovative ways. These included LM Studio (for running Large Language Models locally,) Wes' "Dear John" letter abandoning Twitter at least, and the upcoming MediaEd Forum (online conference) in mid-January 2024. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:06:47

EdTechSR Ep 310 OpenAI's Educational Impact

11/17/2023
Welcome to episode 310 (“OpenAI's Educational Impact”) of the EdTech Situation Room from November 15, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (@wfryer@mastodon.cloud) dived deep into the world of AI, with a special focus on OpenAI's advancements and their implications in education. Jason shared valuable insights from his recent presentation on AI at the National Rural Education National Forum. The episode covered the latest from OpenAI, including ChatGPT-4 Turbo and its fine-tuning programs, and how AI is reshaping educational materials and personalizing learning experiences. They also explored broader topics like social media, digital citizenship, and the ethical dimensions of AI in technology. The episode wrapped up with their personal experiences in experimenting with AI and the "Geeks of the Week" segment, featuring intriguing AI tools and applications. These included Snipd (an AI powered podcastching app) and Wes' "Text Prepper" social media post chunking web app. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:03:46

EdTechSR Ep 309 AI Integration Explored

11/11/2023
Welcome to episode 309 (“AI Integration Explored”) of the EdTech Situation Room from November 8, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer and Dr. Wesley Fryer discussed a wide range of topics predominantly focused on AI's integration into various aspects of technology and education. They covered the latest developments in Apple technology, including the new M3 chips and Macbook Pros. The conversation also touched upon Microsoft updates, particularly the integration of AI tools directly into Windows 11 and the release of Microsoft co-pilot for business users. In the realm of social media, they discussed the implications of changes in platforms like Twitter and the impact of these changes on historical record and fact-checking. The conversation then shifted to AI's growing influence in education, with discussions about the use of AI tools like Canva for classroom activities, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in educational settings. Security and privacy concerns associated with technology were also addressed, including a discussion about air tags being used by police departments to track stolen vehicles. For their "Geeks of the Week" segment, Dr. Fryer highlighted his "Media Literacy Roundup" on his Substack, and Dr. Neiffer shared his rediscovery of NFC tags and their versatile applications. The podcast concluded with reflections on the potential and challenges of AI integration in various domains, emphasizing the need for ongoing exploration and understanding of these rapidly evolving technologies. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:10:01

EdTechSR Ep 308 Exploring AI in Education

10/27/2023
Welcome to episode 308 (“Exploring AI in Education”) of the EdTech Situation Room from October 25, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed a range of topics, focusing on the integration and implications of AI in education. Wes Fryer shared insights from his teaching experiences in Matthews, North Carolina, covering web design, computer applications, media literacy, and computer programming. Jason Neiffer talked about his involvement in meetings for the Montana Digital Academy discussing distance learning and AI, emphasizing the necessity for educators to engage with AI tools. Key discussions revolved around AI, including teachers' awareness and concerns, and the need to focus on the learning process with AI in classrooms. The conversation touched upon technology news, AI experiments, and the ethical challenges posed by AI in educational settings. Social media's influence on students and legal issues surrounding Meta were also discussed, along with the time teens spend on social media and the critical role of parental involvement. The episode featured conversations about AI's role in generating academic content, and its integration in tools like Gmail for better email management. The episode concluded with a focus on Google's AI-enhanced search features and the significant challenges AI presents in the educational landscape. "Geeks of the Week" included the Duck Duck Go web browser, Native iOS Voice Dictation in Chrome, Google’s SGE, a "Minecraft Mars Colony" coding project, Wes’ new background video, and Wes’ AI Tips and Tricks Google Doc. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:07:08

EdTechSR Ep 307: AI-Driven Education Insights

10/13/2023
Welcome to episode 307 (“AI-Driven Education Insights”) of the EdTech Situation Room from October 11, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed a range of pressing topics in the intersection of technology and education. They delved into the latest developments in AI and its impact on educational practices, with a specific focus on how AI tools are transforming teaching methodologies and student engagement. The episode also covered the recent advancements and the educational applications of the Raspberry Pi 5, emphasizing its significance in the Maker movement and STEM education. Furthermore, the hosts explored the evolving landscape of tech policy, highlighting key legislative changes that affect both educators and students. They provided insights into the shifting paradigms of social media monetization, discussing how these changes influence digital literacy and online behavior among students. The episode also touched upon the advancements in voice technology and the critical aspect of user security, particularly in educational settings. "Geeks of the Week" included Librarian AI: "Discover your next favorite book Powered by AI," a podcast interview with one of Wes' middle school students who moderates commercial livestreams, and support for Mastodon Lists in Flipboard. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:05:58

EdTechSR Ep 306 Multimodal AI: Ethical Dilemmas

10/2/2023
Welcome to episode 306 (“Multimodal AI: Ethical Dilemmas”) of the EdTech Situation Room from September 27, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed a broad spectrum of topics at the intersection of technology and education. Key discussions included the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly multimodal capabilities of ChatGPT and the ethical concerns surrounding technologies like Clearview AI. Jason Neiffer shared his insights on the iPhone 15 Pro, delving into its features and potential drawbacks. The episode also covered social media developments, notably Twitter's Community Notes feature aimed at mitigating misinformation. Further, the hosts examined the integration of AI in various platforms, such as Google's Bard and Microsoft's recent projects, highlighting the swift progress and expansive potential of AI in everyday applications. Real-world perspectives were provided through Jason's experiences with student groups and Wesley's classroom interactions, offering practical viewpoints on technology usage. The episode wrapped up with the "Geeks of the Week" segment, with Wes sharing the Ezra Klein Show podcast from September 12, 2023, "America’s Top Librarian on the Rise of Book Bans, the Amazon Prime movie, “A Million Miles Away," and Jason sharing the AI website TheresAnAIforThat.com. Our show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and a custom GPT on ChatGPT 4, as well as options for our show title! Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:06:58

EdTechSR Ep 305 USB-C Apple Evolution

10/1/2023
Welcome to episode 305 (“USB-C Apple Evolution”) of the EdTech Situation Room from September 13, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (@wfryer@mastodon.cloud) delved into a range of exciting and significant topics in the tech world. Key discussions included the ongoing evolution of Apple's products with a special focus on their transition to USB-C, reflecting a major shift in their design philosophy and user interface. The episode also highlighted advancements in AI and its burgeoning role in education, underscoring both the opportunities and challenges it presents to educators and students alike. Further, the hosts explored the broader tech landscape, discussing the current state of technology markets and the challenges facing tech companies as they navigate a period of correction and change. The conversation also ventured into the thrilling realm of space exploration, showcasing the latest developments and missions that continue to push the boundaries of human knowledge and capability. Ethics in technology, particularly regarding AI, formed a crucial part of the discussion, with insights into the latest guidelines and ethical considerations that are shaping the development and deployment of AI technologies. Throughout the episode, Dr. Neiffer and Dr. Fryer provided their expert analysis and perspectives, making complex topics accessible and engaging for their audience. "Geeks of the Week" included "AI Guidelines for Students" (from Wes) and the AI-powered meme generator "www.supermeme.ai" (from Jason.) Join us for this insightful episode as we explore the intersections of technology, education, and society. Stay savvy and safe!

Duration:01:07:44

EdTechSR Ep 304 Privacy Laws, Please!

9/30/2023
Welcome to episode 304 (“Privacy Laws, Please!”) of the EdTech Situation Room from September 6, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed exciting developments and educational impacts related to artificial intelligence (AI). They highlighted new AI-powered tools like Claude and Poe that summarize documents and provide customized assistance. Jason explained how these tools have streamlined his workflow, saving him hours of time processing information. The hosts also addressed concerns about generative AI, including the creation of inappropriate content. They analyzed the complications arising from open access to AI models. In addition, Jason and Wes talked about new Google Workspace features involving AI, like automated meeting summaries. They speculated on the future integration of AI into platforms like YouTube and Zoom. Shifting focus, the pair addressed updates involving

Duration:01:05:40

EdTechSR Ep 304 Privacy Laws, Please!

9/30/2023
Welcome to episode 304 (“Privacy Laws, Please!”) of the EdTech Situation Room from September 6, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed exciting developments and educational impacts related to artificial intelligence (AI). They highlighted new AI-powered tools like Claude and Poe that summarize documents and provide customized assistance. Jason explained how these tools have streamlined his workflow, saving him hours of time processing information. The hosts also addressed concerns about generative AI, including the creation of inappropriate content. They analyzed the complications arising from open access to AI models. In addition, Jason and Wes talked about new Google Workspace features involving AI, like automated meeting summaries. They speculated on the future integration of AI into platforms like YouTube and Zoom. Shifting focus, the pair addressed updates involving Apple products, Huawei smartphones, and connected cars and privacy. They emphasized the need for privacy regulations. Discussion also centered on censorship and content moderation on social media platforms. Wrapping up, Jason and Wes shared their “Geeks of the Week,” including a TED talk from Sal Khan about AI in education, a podcast on political impacts of AI, and Khan Academy's AI platform, Khanmigo. The show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechSR on Twitter and @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and claude.ai, as well as options for our show title!

Duration:01:05:40

EdTechSR Ep 303 Happy Birthday Google!

9/17/2023
Welcome to Episode 303 (“Happy Birthday Google!”) of the EdTech Situation Room from August 30, 2023, where technology news meets educational analysis. This week, Dr. Jason Neiffer (@techsavvyteach) and Dr. Wesley Fryer (wesfryer.com/after) discussed a range of technology topics, analyizing the latest news at the intersection of education and technology. They covered the 25th Birthday of Google, developments in artificial intelligence, including Google's new image generation tool in Google Slides, a watermarking technique from Google to help track AI-generated images, and Ideogram, a powerful new free AI image generation tool Neiffer discovered. Fryer shared insights on military AI, highlighting the US Air Force's plans to use autonomous drone "wingmen" alongside human pilots. The hosts also talked about upcoming Apple announcements, anticipating the likely release of the iPhone 15. They weighed the potential benefits of switching to USB-C charging and the need for schools to adapt. Social media topics included Facebook's staff cuts impacting content moderation, lawsuits against tech companies related to student mental health, and the risks of election misinformation with weakened oversight. In other news, hosts highlighted the new US Cybersecurity Trustmark for IoT devices and Google's plans to integrate AI writing assistance across Chromebooks. For their "Geeks of the Week," Fryer shared a tutorial on using Voice Memos for student oral history projects, and Neiffer highlighted a deal on the MacBook Air M1, praising its speed and value. The show was live-streamed and archived simultaneously on YouTube Live as well as Facebook Live via StreamYard.com. Please follow @edtechSR on Twitter and @edtechsr@mastodon.education on Mastodon for updates, and join LIVE on Wednesday nights if you can. All shownotes are available on edtechSR.com/links. AI Disclosure: An initial draft of this episode summary was generated using youtubetranscript.com and claude.ai, as well as options for our show title!

Duration:01:05:34