In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Lindy Hockenbary, an experienced K-12 EdTech advisor, about the integration of technology and AI in education. They discuss Lindy's journey in EdTech, the key elements for successful technology integration, common mistakes educators make, and the importance of digital citizenship. The conversation also explores the role of cell phones in the classroom and the impact of AI on the future of education, emphasizing the need for educators to adapt and embrace these tools for enhanced learning experiences. In this conversation, Lindy Hockenbary discusses the transformative impact of AI on education, emphasizing the need for AI literacy among educators and students. She highlights the misconceptions surrounding AI, particularly the fear of cheating, and advocates for a deeper understanding of AI's capabilities. Lindy also addresses the ethical considerations of using AI in schools, the importance of equity and access in educational technology, and the critical role of professional development for teachers to adapt to these changes effectively. In this conversation, Lindy Hockenbary discusses the integration of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between students and AI. She advocates for a shift from Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) to Responsible Use Policies (RUP) to foster a positive learning environment. Lindy also explores the future of AI in education, highlighting the emergence of agent AI and the need for educators to adapt their teaching strategies. She provides valuable insights on emerging trends in EdTech and offers practical advice for educators looking to enhance their tech integration strategies. Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…

In this episode of EdTech Empowerment , Juan Rodriguez sits down with Anna Haney-Winthrow , Director of the Institute of Innovative & Emerging Technologies at Florida Southwestern State College. They explore how AI is transforming higher education, from faculty upskilling to algorithm literacy for students. Anna shares insights on how educators can embrace AI rather than fear it, create more engaging learning experiences, and ensure technology is used equitably in the classroom. Whether you're an educator looking to integrate AI or just curious about its impact on education, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. 🔹 AI in higher education 🔹 Faculty upskilling & tech integration 🔹 Algorithm literacy for students 🔹 Ethical AI & student privacy Tune in now and join the conversation on the future of learning! Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…

Heather Olson, Director of Online Teaching and Learning Experience at Florida SouthWestern State College, discusses her journey into education and her philosophy of fostering inclusivity and confidence in online spaces. She highlights the use of tools like Canvas, Notion, Google Learn, Flexi AI, Harmonize, Packback, and Hypothesis to enhance learning outcomes. Olson emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning, flexible policies, and leveraging AI to personalize education. She shares her strategies for reducing grading fatigue and increasing student engagement, such as using ungrading and providing multiple ways for students to demonstrate their learning. Olson also stresses the importance of accessibility, help-seeking behaviors, and embracing technology to humanize online learning. Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…

Unlock the future of education with Professor Lance Cummings from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, as he shares groundbreaking strategies transforming the classroom. From applied learning and ungrading to leveraging AI and cutting-edge tools like LeftOS, Lance reimagines education to prepare students for an AI-driven world. Discover how experiential learning, design thinking, and modern digital platforms empower students to collaborate, innovate, and thrive. Explore how AI enhances creativity, problem-solving, and engagement, making learning more dynamic and career-focused. Tune in to this episode for a compelling look at reshaping education to inspire the next generation of creators and critical thinkers. Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…

Abran Maldonado, co-founder of CreateLabs Ventures, takes us on a fascinating journey from the pulsating beats of Hot 97 to the transformative world of education technology. Discover how his experiences as a Gates Scholar and his deep commitment to urban education fused with his love for music to create innovative educational tools. Abran's story is one of turning personal passions into powerful platforms for change, focusing on the development of a hip hop-themed education app that engages students through cultural connections. Listeners will uncover the exciting opportunities being forged at the crossroads of tech, media, and education. From the founding of CreateLabs Ventures alongside Grady to the launch of the New School app, designed to make learning relatable, this episode highlights how technology can bridge gaps in underserved communities. Learn about the creative strategies Abran and his team employ, like pop-up tech events and unconventional hiring practices, to foster inclusive growth and development. Concluding with a forward-thinking dialogue on AI and AR in education, we introduce Clara, the AI ambassador inspiring young minds. Through real-world examples, Abran discusses how AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance educational equity and support personalized learning experiences. This episode offers insights into how embracing technology not only empowers educators and students but also prepares future generations for the challenges ahead, emphasizing the collective effort required to innovate and transform education. Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…

Juan Rodriguez hosts a EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together discussing the digital divide in education with AJ Singh, an experienced educator from Lucknow, India. AJ, currently working at Magic Ed Tech, emphasizes personalized learning and inclusive classroom environments. He highlights the use of Google Classroom for improved time management and communication, and addresses challenges like the digital divide by offering hybrid learning and low-cost educational resources. AJ stresses the importance of digital literacy for both students and teachers, advocating for continuous professional development. He also underscores the role of companies like Magic Ed Tech in providing accessible, inclusive digital learning solutions and staying updated with the latest educational technology trends. Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…

Naomi Latini Wolf, a sociology professor and inclusive edtech specialist, discusses her approach to integrating technology in education to create inclusive learning environments. She emphasizes the importance of digital literacy, empathy, and critical thinking. Wolf uses tools like Google's Applied Digital Skills, Canva, Padlet, and AI platforms to enhance student engagement and accessibility. She addresses challenges such as tech anxiety and socioeconomic barriers by offering multiple submission options and scaffolding digital skills. Wolf also highlights the role of AI in personalizing education and the need for ethical use and data privacy. She advocates for continuous learning and the creation of socially conscious innovators. Send us a text Support the show EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms. Let’s bridge the digital divide, together! Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!…