AI in Edu: News, Tools, & Views (April 11)
Welcome to my weekly digest of AI in education news, tools, and views to help keep you informed. Let’s get started:
Building an Effective Tutor with MagicSchool AI
Edutopia assistant editor Daniel Leonard shows how teachers can customize a free AI tutor that enables students to review the class material on their own time:
Teens are embracing AI — but largely not for cheating, survey finds
A national survey shows most teens are using AI tools like ChatGPT for help with ideas, writing, and studying—not for cheating. While some educators fear misuse, the data suggests students mostly use AI to support learning. Teens are curious and open to AI, but many lack clear guidance on responsible use. Experts recommend teaching digital literacy and ethical AI use in schools to help students use the technology thoughtfully and effectively.
https://www.k12dive.com/news/teens-embracing-ai-largely-not-for-cheating-survey/744797/
Embedding Interactive Lessons with Desmos and PhET in Quizizz
This TCEA article explains how teachers can enhance student engagement by embedding interactive simulations from Desmos and PhET into Quizizz lessons. These tools allow students to explore math and science concepts actively, making learning more dynamic. The integration supports personalized pacing and real-time feedback. The post provides step-by-step instructions for embedding content and emphasizes how combining Quizizz with Desmos and PhET boosts understanding, curiosity, and participation in both virtual and in-person classrooms.
https://blog.tcea.org/embedding-interactive-lessons-with-desmos-and-phet-in-quizizz/
More Teachers Than Ever Before Are Trained on AI. Are They Ready to Use It?
This Education Week article highlights a surge in AI training for teachers, with more educators than ever learning about artificial intelligence. However, many still feel unprepared to use it effectively in classrooms. Challenges include lack of time, guidance, and clarity on best practices. Experts stress the need for ongoing, hands-on professional development and clear policies. Without proper support, training alone may not lead to meaningful integration of AI in teaching and learning.
What Is Colleague AI And How Can I Use It to Teach?
Tech&Learning explains that Colleague AI is a free AI tool designed to support teachers with lesson planning, resource creation, and instructional strategies. It can generate activities, assessments, and differentiated materials aligned to standards. Teachers can input topics or objectives, and Colleague AI provides customizable suggestions. The tool aims to save time and spark new ideas. It’s especially useful for busy educators seeking quick, personalized support while maintaining control over their classroom content and teaching style.
https://www.techlearning.com/how-to/what-is-colleague-ai-and-how-can-i-use-it-to-teach
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Create a podcast with Brisk Teaching (Video)
Most teachers agree AI is a time-saver
eSchoolNews reports that a new survey reveals most teachers believe AI saves them time, especially in tasks like lesson planning, grading, and creating instructional materials. Many report AI boosts productivity and helps personalize learning. However, concerns remain about accuracy, student overreliance, and data privacy. Educators stress the importance of professional development and clear guidelines for effective use. Overall, teachers see AI as a helpful tool when used thoughtfully and with proper training and safeguards.
https://www.eschoolnews.com/digital-learning/2025/04/07/most-teachers-agree-ai-is-a-time-saver/
AI Education Is the New Space Race. Here’s How America Must Respond
The 74 acompares the global race in AI education to the space race, emphasizing that the U.S. must act urgently to lead. It urges major investments in AI curricula, teacher training, and equitable access to AI tools. The authors argue that China is advancing rapidly and that U.S. leadership in innovation depends on preparing all students to understand and use AI effectively across all subjects and grade levels.
And more…
3 Powerful, Hidden Gem Tech Tools - edutopia
Google Cloud Next 25 Updates - Google
Google Docs gets audio overviews
Google Sheets gets AI analysis
'“Workspace Flows” connects Google apps like Forms, Sheets, Chat, along with Gemini & Gems
Google is Winning on Every AI Front - Albert Romero
Open AI and Anthropic are competing to provide U.S. and Canadian college students (limited) free access to ChatGPT and Claude, respectively
Firebase Studio - Google’s new text-to-app tool.
Whiteboard - AI-powered whiteboard to plan, and visualize ideas in real time
Midjourney releases V7 Alpha—featuring sharper images, smarter prompts, and new features.
iWeaver Is An AI Knowledge Management Tool To Help You Remember Everything - Jim Clyde Monge
Runway releases an impressive new video-generating AI model - TechCrunch
Brisk raises $15M after a quick start in school - TechCrunch
SchoolAI Secures $25 Million to Help Teachers and Schools Reach Every Student - GlobeNewswire
Apple Readies New AI Doctor - Bloomberg
How the U.S. Public and AI Experts View Artificial Intelligence - Pew Research Center
Find more AI tools, views, and how-to’s at tomdaccord.com
Find my book AI Tools & Uses: A Practical Guide for Teachers at Amazon
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