Future Focus | It's Not a Thinking Problem. It's an Agency Problem. | Week of April 13, 2026

In this episode, Dr. Sabba Quidwai challenges the dominant narrative that AI is eroding students’ ability to think, arguing instead that the real issue is a lack of human agency in how technology is used. Drawing on new research, workplace trends, and classroom insights, she reveals how students and workers alike are struggling not with AI itself, but with systems that fail to empower them. The episode offers a powerful reframe—and practical strategies—for designing learning and work environments that prioritize agency, empathy, and intentional AI use.Timestamps[00:00:00] The Cognitive Offloading Debate BeginsReflections from education conferences and the growing concern that students are “outsourcing” their thinking.[00:03:00] It’s Not a Thinking Problem—It’s an Agency ProblemWhy disengagement predates AI and what research reveals about student experience.[00:05:00] The AI Frontier Is Moving Faster Than We RealizeAnthropic’s unreleased model and what it signals about the future students are entering.[00:10:00] Gen Z’s Emotional Reality with AINew data shows rising anxiety, anger, and lack of control despite widespread usage.[00:14:00] The Classroom Insight That Changes EverythingStudents aren’t cheating—they’re using AI for feedback, but without the framework to evaluate it.[00:18:00] When Agency Is Missing, People Push BackWhy 44% of Gen Z workers are actively sabotaging AI in the workplace.[00:26:00] Five Shifts to Move from Compliance to AgencyPractical strategies for educators, leaders, and parents to redesign AI integration.Resources MentionedLumina/Gallup Gen Z AI Sentiment ReportGen Z Workers Sabotaging AI RolloutsAnthropic Claude Mythos - Project GlasswingRyan Roslansky & Aneesh Raman - Open to Work: How to Get Ahead in the Age of AIExplore More from Designing Schools🤝 Partner with Us: Join the AI Power Circle and collaborate with forward-thinking educators building the future with AI.📘 Get the Book: Designing Schools — a practical blueprint to transform your campus with creativity, leadership, and innovation.🎓 Prepare Your Students for an AI Future: Free Course – AI Skills for College and Career to equip your school community with future-ready skills.For questions, email: [email protected]