Why Banning AI Might Backfire with Elliot Hedman

In this conversation, Elliot Hedman (Build Empathy) shares insights from his research on how students are using generative AI in schools, often in ways that go unnoticed by educators. Drawing on his experience designing digital learning tools for companies like LEGO, McGraw-Hill, and i-Ready, Elliot discusses the limitations of AI detection tools, the rise of paraphrased outputs, and why banning AI may be doing more harm than good. He emphasizes the need to focus on student thinking over polished output and shares healthier, more authentic ways to integrate AI into classroom practice. The discussion also highlights two of Elliot’s free tools, Level Up and Wonder.io, which help students engage more meaningfully in writing and reading through collaborative AI use.