Seminar on Navigating AI in Education: Balancing Innovation with Humanistic and Pedagogical Approaches

Speaker:

Dr. Shuchi Grover, Ph.D.

Looking Glass Ventures | Edfinity,

Director of AI & Education Research

Senior Research Scientist | Chief Learning Officer

Bio:

Dr. Shuchi Grover is the Director of AI and Education Research at Looking Glass Ventures in Austin, TX. She is a computer scientist and learning scientist by training who has been committed to PK-12 computing education in formal and informal settings for over two decades. She has led several US National Science Foundation-funded projects involving research & design of learning that helps develop 21st-century competencies in computing, data science, and AI as well as the integration of STEM, computer science (CS) and data science. She created, co-authored, and edited Computer Science in K-12: A-to-Z Handbook on Teaching Programming, a popular resource for preparing K-12 CS teachers. She advises several national and international efforts related to advancing computing and AI education at the K-12 level. She is the recipient of the 2024 Henry and Beyna David Award from the US National Academies of Science, Engineering and Mathematics.
Grover has a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences and Technology Design (Stanford University), master’s degrees in education (Harvard University) and computer science (CWRU, Cleveland), and bachelor’s degrees in computer science and physics (India).

Title:

Navigating AI in Education: Balancing Innovation with Humanistic and Pedagogical Approaches

Abstract:

Many believe that AI is poised to transform the educational landscape. Educators stakeholders face the challenge of determining the why, whether, and how to harness AI’s potential while preserving the crucial human elements of teaching and learning. This talk examines the delicate balance between technological innovation and pedagogical integrity, drawing on research in the learning sciences, past AI in education research, and practical implementations in K-12 settings. We will explore how those learnings can guide us in examining AI in education with practical guidelines for creating learning experiences in ways that leverage AI while prioritizing student growth and engagement. Special attention will be given to considerations for developing key skills such as data and computational literacy that are foundational and prerequisite to AI literacy. The talk will offer concrete recommendations for educators and administrators seeking to navigate this complex landscape while upholding humanistic values in teaching and learning.