Episode 319: Rob Nelson

Episode 319: AI, Education, and Moving at Human Speed with Rob NelsonIn this powerful episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with educator, writer, and higher ed tech veteran Rob Nelson to explore the real story behind AI in education. Rob challenges the “move fast and break things” mentality and calls for a more human-paced, thoughtful approach to integrating AI in classrooms.We explore what it really means to Tinker Toward Utopia, how large language models are reshaping student learning (when used intentionally), and why educators must resist pressure from hype-driven platforms. This episode is packed with clarity, caution, and hope for anyone navigating the fast-moving world of AI in education.Links to the publications I mentioned. Henry Farrell's blog, Programmable MutterTinkering Toward Utopia by David Tyack and Larry CubanA Voice from the South by Anna Julia CooperAnd, of course, Rob's BlogWebsite: ailogblog.com 👇 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Rob’s background in higher ed 04:00 – AI adoption: Hype vs. reality 09:00 – Duck-Rabbit duality: Two ways to see AI 12:00 – Using LLMs to support—not replace—teaching 25:00 – The danger of humanizing AI too much 28:00 – The AI Fight Club: Polarization in the space 33:00 – Why rushing into AI contracts can backfire 38:00 – Tinkering toward utopia: A better path forward 44:00 – Final reflections & rapid-fire Q&A🙏 Special thanks to our amazing sponsors who help make these conversations possible:📚 Book Creator – Empowering student voice and creativity. 💬 EDU Aide – Simplifying communication, saving educators time. 🌐 Yellowdig – Building communities that spark meaningful learning.Please show them some love!🔗 Catch more episodes at: www.myedtech.life ☕ Support the show: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2395968/support💬 Let’s keep changing education—at the speed of people.Stay Techie! Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myedtechlife.substack.com