Empowering Student Voice by Building AI Ethics Frameworks

Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping education's future, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and cutting-edge Educational Technology Trends. In this conversation, Greg Mertz, Director of Innovation at New England Innovation Academy, discusses NEIA's unique educational environment with its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. He explains how the school integrates AI into its curriculum, the vital role of community engagement when navigating new technologies, and the creative spaces where students explore their passions. Mertz highlights the school's teaching approach that encourages experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the importance of equipping students with tools for success in our rapidly changing world. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

• Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
• Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
• Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:

• NEIA seamlessly integrates innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the curriculum.
• The academy empowers students to discover their passions and create meaningful impact.
• AI serves as an educational enhancement tool rather than a replacement for teaching.
• Engaging the community is essential when determining AI's appropriate role in education.
• An AI ethics board actively monitors technology's impact within the school environment.
• The school views generative AI as a diverse toolset that enhances learning opportunities.
• Creative spaces are democratized—available to all students regardless of program enrollment.
• The culture embraces "failing forward," encouraging students to learn from their mistakes.
• Curriculum development prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility for the entire student body.
• NEIA promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration to enrich learning experiences.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to New England Innovation Academy
• 02:47 Innovative Learning Environment and Curriculum
• 05:31 Navigating AI in Education
• 08:06 Community Response to AI Integration
• 10:59 Generative AI and Its Applications
• 13:37 Creative Spaces and Student Engagement
• 16:12 Tools and Techniques for Student Projects
• 18:59 Curriculum Integration Across Grades
• 21:59 Conclusion and Future Engagement

About our Guest: Greg Mertz Greg Mertz is Director of Innovation at New England Innovation Academy. As a maker, outdoor enthusiast, and educator, Greg enjoys the challenges and rewards that come with wearing a myriad of hats. Greg entered the field of education over twenty-five years ago and brings to NEIA a wide range of...