Leveraging AI for Powerful Learning: The Promise and the Peril (Julie Mathiesen)

Let’s learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI) so we can explore the powerful possibilities and potential challenges of this transformational technology.  AI elicits a range of reactions, exciting for some, intimidating for others, and perplexing for many. We will aim to demystify AI by exploring what it is, and what it isn’t so that we can leverage this tool to power learning and customize the learning experience. Attendees will gain insights into AI’s potential to transform learning and propel the Ideal Learning Experience.  We will also explore the  societal challenges and potential peril this revolutionary technology may pose. We must ensure students are prepared for a future intertwined with evolving technology, making this knowledge building keynote a must-attend for everyone looking to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of technology in education.

Julie Mathiesen is a recognized thought leader in the field of educational technology and transformative learning methods. As a distinguished Bush Foundation Leadership Fellow and an alumna of Pepperdine University’s Educational Technology doctoral program, she brings a wealth of expertise to the field. Her career began in the classroom, teaching high school biology and art, which laid the foundation for her subsequent leadership at agencies dedicated to enhancing educational experiences through innovative technologies. Dr. Mathiesen’s approach is deeply influenced by her commitment to customized learning, ensuring her presentations not only showcase current technological advancements but also practical, attainable strategies for personalized education.  Dr. Mathiesen is dedicated to transforming traditional learning environments into dynamic, learner-centered spaces that accommodate individual needs and foster educational excellence.

Stronger Together: Where Technology and Learning Converge (Dr. Matthew X Joseph)

In today’s educational landscape, technology is not just a tool; it’s a catalyst for transformation. This keynote delves into the dynamic synergy between EdTech and leadership, showcasing how visionary leaders can harness its power to cultivate student empowerment.

We’ll explore how EdTech transcends traditional boundaries, empowering students to become active agents in their learning. Through personalized experiences and adaptive platforms, students are equipped with the autonomy to explore, create, and innovate. Our discussion extends beyond mere technology adoption; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation where every student feels empowered to embrace challenges and drive their learning journey, igniting a spark of excitement and curiosity.

Leadership plays a pivotal role in this evolution. We’ll dissect strategies for educational leaders to effectively integrate EdTech, ensuring alignment with pedagogical goals and student needs. From providing professional development opportunities to cultivating a supportive ecosystem, effective leadership sets the stage for EdTech to flourish as a tool for student empowerment.

Let’s ignite a passion for innovation and equip our students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Join veteran school and district leader Dr. Matthew X. Joseph on a journey of innovation in action. Together, let’s unleash the transformative power of technology to ignite the spark of curiosity, cultivate the seeds of empowerment, and nurture the leaders of tomorrow.

Dr. Matthew X. Joseph is the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning in New Bedford, MA. He is also the CEO of X-Factor EDU consulting and publishing. Experiences such as Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation, elementary school principal, classroom teacher, and district professional development specialist have provided Matt with incredible insights on how to support teaching and learning best and led to nationally published articles and opportunities to speak at multiple state and national events. He is the author of multiple books focused on collaboration in education.  His master’s degree is in special education, and he has an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Boston College.  Follow him on X at @matthewxjoseph, and visit his website at www.xfactor.link

We hope you can join us this summer when we plan to provide keynote messages, interactive whole group & breakouts sessions that focus on customizing learning within an artificial intelligence society.

Find more details here. Please help us spread the word!!

We welcome a variety of stakeholders including teachers, learning facilitators, instructional support staff, school leaders, parents, and vendors who are producing products that facilitate the work learning communities are doing to design the Ideal Learning Experience. 

We look forward to an engaging conversation among hard working and passionate educators who are transforming the learning experience they provide ALL learners. 

Future LLC Sessions: Dec. 11, Jan. 8 & 22, Feb. 5, Feb. 12, March 4 & 18, April 8, May 6 & 20, June 3

All sessions will start @ 10:30

This will be a full day, online book study using Susan Brookhart’s book: “How to Give Effective Feedback To Your Students 2nd Edition”  Our one day mini-summits are designed to provide content, time to process with others, and conclude with creation of an implementation plan. It is nice when there are a variety of learning communities represented so there are conversations among and across a variety of learning facilitators/teachers, and leaders, but by the end of the day we will group participants together within their own systems so they can develop a plan. If there is only one person from a system attending we will group them with similar participants and encourage them to build an individual plan. These conversations often show educators why it is important to adopt different grading/feedback structures. 

When I asked what structure has been the easiest to change, leaders talked about implementing a proficiency scale, grouping in a small elementary school, lunch/recess choices as a way for learners to practice self regulating and voice and choice, K-2 badging that has reinforced a focus on learning goals vs activities and assignments, multi-age grouping and explicit instruction of habits of mind.

It occurred to me how important it has been for these leaders to be patient and persistent.

The goals of our work session are to bring these effective implementers together to share what they are doing and give them time and feedback to build a resource that can be used within all our member systems.