How Kahoot! Is Using AI and Gamification to Reignite Student Engagement

What does meaningful engagement look like in today's classroom? And as AI becomes part of everyday teaching, how can technology help teachers inspire curiosity without adding even more pressure to an already demanding profession? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I'm joined by Jon Neale, Growth Director for UK and Ireland at Kahoot!, and one of the UK's most respected voices in education technology. With more than a decade in the classroom before moving into EdTech, Jon brings the perspective of someone who understands both the realities teachers face every day and the opportunities that technology can create when it is used with purpose. Our conversation begins by exploring why student engagement has become more challenging in a world filled with digital distractions. Jon explains why gamification should never be confused with entertainment and how thoughtfully designed learning experiences can encourage participation, collaboration, and confidence without turning education into a competition. We also discuss how Kahoot! has evolved far beyond the classroom quiz that many people know. Today's platform helps teachers create interactive lessons, collaborative learning experiences, and personalised activities that support learners across schools, higher education, workplace learning, and professional development. AI is another major focus of our discussion. Jon shares practical examples of how teachers are using AI to enhance existing lesson materials, generate engaging classroom activities, personalise learning, and identify where students may need extra support before small learning gaps become bigger challenges. Rather than replacing educators, AI is helping teachers spend more time doing what drew them into the profession in the first place: teaching. We also explore one of the biggest challenges facing education today, teacher workload. Jon explains why successful technology adoption starts with confidence rather than features, and why professional development plays such an important role in helping educators choose the right tool for the right situation instead of feeling overwhelmed by an endless stream of new platforms. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, learning and development professional, or simply interested in how AI is changing education, this episode offers practical insight into how technology can create richer learning experiences while keeping people firmly at the centre of education. As classrooms continue to change, what do you think will have the greatest impact on learning: AI itself, or the teachers who know how to use it well?