The Edtech Podcast: Daily Summaries Delivered

#332: Most People Are Using AI Wrong, Are you?

Episode Summary Most people believe they know how to use AI—but are they simply treating ChatGPT like a replacement for Google? In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, Philippa Wraithmell speaks with Joshua, Co-founder and CEO of Mindstone, about what genuine AI competency looks like and why successful AI transformation depends far more on people, behaviour and organisational culture than technology. Joshua shares his journey from launching his first company as a teenager to co-founding SuperAwesome, the child-safety technology company later acquired by Epic Games. He explains how this experience shaped his thinking about digital safeguarding, parental responsibility and the need to help children engage with technology gradually, rather than attempting to protect them through blanket bans. The conversation explores why simply inserting AI into existing tasks rarely delivers meaningful value. Joshua argues that the real opportunity lies in changing how we approach work: asking AI to question us, challenge our assumptions, identify blind spots and support our thinking rather than outsourcing it. They also examine the widening AI skills divide. As experienced users build years of personal context, workflows and AI agents, those who delay may find themselves increasingly disadvantaged. This has major implications for workplaces, schools and universities—particularly when many institutions still respond to AI through prohibition rather than education. From leadership and workforce transformation to safeguarding, sustainability misconceptions and the future of employment, this episode asks an important question: are we preparing people to use AI well, or simply giving them access to the tools? Key Topics What genuine AI competency looks like Why most people are using generative AI incorrectly Using AI to enhance rather than replace human thinking Why AI transformation is a people and behaviour-change challenge The responsibility of senior leaders during AI adoption The growing inequality between experienced and inexperienced AI users Why banning AI in schools can encourage secretive and inappropriate use Building safer, age-appropriate pathways into AI and social media The role of parents, governments and technology companies in safeguarding Misconceptions surrounding AI's environmental impact How AI agents are changing productivity and cognitive workload Preparing people for disruption across employment and education Chapters 00:00 – Welcome and Introduction to Joshua Joshua introduces Mindstone and its work helping non-technical teams use generative AI more effectively. 01:04 – Building a Business at Sixteen From creating websites for family connections to managing a team of students building technology for private banks. 02:08 – Early Start-up Lessons Joshua reflects on a failed start-up, turning down investment and the lessons that led to his next venture. 03:17 – Building SuperAwesome and Protecting Children Online How SuperAwesome developed advertising, privacy and verified parental-consent technology for global children's brands. 04:47 – Safeguarding, Regulation and Parental Responsibility Why Joshua believes governments must avoid removing parental agency when introducing online-safety regulation. 06:46 – Education, Curiosity and Challenging Authority Joshua discusses his school experiences, constant questioning and learning across six different school models. 10:04 – Why Joshua Founded Mindstone The transition from Epic Games into education, learning science and the future of workforce skills. 13:07 – When Skills Expire Before Degrees Are Completed Why the declining half-life of workplace skills raises fundamental questions about traditional education. 14:04 – ChatGPT Changes the Direction of Mindstone How generative AI transformed both the learning process and the skills likely to matter in the future. 15:28 – Why Most People Do Not Know How to Use AI Joshua explains why frequent ChatGPT use does not necessarily equal AI competency. 17:24 – ChatGPT Is Not a Search Engine Why treating AI as a Google replacement represents one of its least valuable applications. 18:17 – A

#331: From Screen Time to Green Time: Can AI Reconnect Children with Nature?

#330 Can AI Help Learners Find Their Future?

Todays Episode In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, Philippa is joined by Harri Davies, UK Head of Growth at Imovem, to explore how careers guidance needs to evolve for a generation growing up in the fourth industrial revolution. Harri shares Imovem's mission to support young people, including those not in education, employment or training, by helping them build confidence, understand their strengths, and see a wider range of future possibilities. The conversation explores how too many students are still placed into narrow boxes — academic or practical, university or apprenticeship, traditional career or alternative path — and why this no longer reflects the reality of today's changing world of work. Together, Philippa and Harri discuss the role of AI in helping young people map their interests, passions, personality and learning preferences to future career pathways. Harri explains how Imovem's careers copilot uses personalised insights, live labour market data, and access to thousands of potential roles to help students connect what they are studying now with the lives and careers they may want to build. The episode also looks at the pressures facing teachers, careers leads and parents as they try to support young people through an increasingly complex landscape of apprenticeships, university routes, emerging industries, portfolio careers and AI-driven change. Harri highlights the importance of making careers information more accessible, engaging and practical, while giving teachers richer insight to support meaningful one-to-one conversations. This is a timely conversation about aspiration, agency, social impact and future skills. It asks how education can move beyond outdated assumptions about success and instead help every young person explore who they are, what they care about, and where they might thrive. About the Guest Harri is a fractional education leader with experience spanning social mobility, EdTech and upskilling young people. A former lawyer, in his role as UK Head of Growth at imovum, he works with schools to navigate increasingly complex career pathways. His work explores how psychology and emerging technology can help pupils feel confident about their future. Head of Growth for imovum: an AI co-pilot for students aged 13-18, used by 100,000 pupils across the UK, Middle East and India Worked with young people for 8 years: building their confidence and coaching/mentoring them to secure best in class graduate/junior city careers Guest Lecturer at Oxford International Education Group - simplified neuroscience for 15-17 year olds paired with AI co-pilot demonstration Keynote speaker and panellist at legal industry events sponsored by Clifford Chance, A&O Shearman NED at University of Bristol, launching the future of work series 'Building a Company of 1' to help students with post graduate prospects as portfolio workers Find them at imovum LinkedIn imovum Instagram Harri LinkedIn Harri Instagram

#329 AI, Sovereignty and the New Education Divide

AI, Sovereignty and the New Education Divide In this thought-provoking episode of The EdTech Podcast, Philippa Wraithmell speaks with Tom Orrell and Cameron Mirza about education, AI, global development and the growing divide between countries that can shape technological change — and those at risk of having it shaped for them. Tom, Deputy Director of Programs at Development Gateway, brings a background in human rights law, digital policy, sustainable development and humanitarian action. Cameron, Chief of Party for the Assas programme in Jordan, brings deep experience from the UK Department for Education and large-scale education reform across the Middle East. Together, they explore how their different professional routes have led to a shared focus on equity, ethics, implementation and meaningful system change. The conversation begins with the human story behind their work: family connections to teaching, personal motivations, and the values that have shaped their careers. Cameron reflects on how his mother's work as a primary school teacher continues to influence his commitment to early-grade education, while Tom shares how his own route through human rights, law and digital policy shaped his belief in critical thinking, rights and international cooperation. At the heart of the episode is the Assas programme in Jordan, which focuses on improving early-grade literacy and numeracy outcomes for young learners. Tom and Cameron discuss why foundational education matters not just for academic success, but for long-term life chances, economic development, health outcomes and social prosperity. The discussion then moves into the realities facing education systems globally. Cameron highlights the scale of the current learning crisis, teacher shortages, student debt, cost-of-living pressures and the increasing strain on public systems. Tom builds on this by exploring how AI and emerging technologies are accelerating change — but not always in a positive direction. AI, he argues, is not inherently good or bad; it is an acceleration force that can deepen harm or expand opportunity depending on the choices made around governance, policy and implementation. A key theme throughout the episode is sovereignty. Tom and Cameron unpack why AI sovereignty is no longer just about where data is stored. It is also about computing power, local infrastructure, culturally relevant datasets, language, regulation, national priorities and the ability of countries to make informed decisions about the tools they adopt. This raises difficult questions about global inequity, especially when most AI models are developed by a small number of countries and companies, while many lower-income nations lack the infrastructure or policy capacity to shape the direction of AI on their own terms. The episode also examines the danger of technology being treated as a quick fix for complex system problems. Cameron argues that the countries most likely to thrive in the next phase of innovation will not simply be those with the most money, but those able to build strong innovation governance systems — connecting government, regulators, universities, private sector partners, infrastructure, entrepreneurs and policymakers into trusted, coordinated systems. Tom and Cameron also discuss their work with sandboxes in Jordan, exploring how countries can safely test new technologies, understand trade-offs, and make choices that align with their own educational, cultural and national priorities. They emphasise that effective innovation is no longer just about technology; it is about coordination, trust, sequencing and the ability to cut through noise. The final part of the conversation turns to leadership. Cameron argues that leaders now need a systems mindset, ethical judgement, entrepreneurial thinking and the ability to operate in ambiguity while staying close to the realities on the ground. Tom reinforces the importance of emotional intelligence, empathy, communication and human connection in an age where technology is becoming increasingly dominant. This episode is a sharp, honest and deeply human conversation about the future of education. It challenges the hype around AI while recognising its potential, and asks what it will take to ensure that technological transformation strengthens education systems rather than widening the divide between them. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 04:13 Shared Vision and Collaboration 08:2

#328 Digital Distractions and AI: Building Safer, More Inclusive Digital Learning

Episode Summary In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, we explore how schools, families and EdTech providers can better support children's wellbeing, inclusion and safety in an increasingly digital world. Louise Dawson shares insights on inclusive education, personalised learning, safeguarding, data protection and the importance of belonging and connection in every learning environment. She highlights how technology can support diverse learners when implemented strategically, with clear policies, strong teacher preparation and a community-wide understanding of digital responsibility. Harrison Parker, Executive Vice President of Linewise, joins the conversation to discuss student wellbeing, screen time, digital distractions, cyberbullying, AI chatbots and the growing challenges schools and parents face in managing children's online lives. He explains how Linewise supports schools and families with tools that help monitor, manage and guide technology use, while reducing friction between children, parents and educators. Together, these conversations explore a vital question for education today: how do we ensure technology empowers learning, protects children and strengthens connection, rather than creating greater risk, distraction or exclusion? Action Items Review and update safeguarding policies to reflect current EdTech use, AI risks and digital wellbeing concerns. Ensure data protection and privacy principles are embedded into EdTech procurement and implementation. Develop a whole-school strategy for technology use that includes inclusion, safeguarding, teaching and learning, and parent engagement. Provide staff training on classroom technology management, digital distractions and emerging AI-related risks. Support parents with practical tools and guidance for managing screen time at home. Create opportunities for families, schools and students to discuss healthy digital habits together. Use data trends to identify early signs of harmful online behaviour, cyberbullying or wellbeing concerns. Embed digital literacy into the curriculum so students understand both the opportunities and risks of technology. Key Topics Digital wellbeing and student safety Inclusive education and personalised learning Safeguarding and data protection in EdTech Screen time management at home and school Digital distractions and classroom management AI chatbots, cyberbullying and emerging online risks Parental involvement in digital safety Technology as a support for diverse learners Teacher preparedness and strategic EdTech implementation Community, belonging and connection in digital education Using data to identify harmful trends and support intervention Collaboration between schools, parents and EdTech providers Guest Names Louise Dawson - Louise Dawson Professional and Management Development Training www.louisedawson.com Harrison Parker, Executive Vice President, Linewise https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrison-parker-02951921 Linewise: https://www.linewize.com/ Key Frameworks and Concepts Universal Design for Learning Data Protection Principles Digital Safeguarding Screen Time Management Digital Literacy Parent-School Partnership AI Risk Awareness Whole-School EdTech Strategy Chapter Outline 00:00 – Introduction to Inclusive Education and Digital Wellbeing Setting the scene for a conversation about EdTech, inclusion, safeguarding and student safety. 03:06 – The Role of EdTech in Supporting Learning Louise Dawson explores how technology can support diverse learners and enable more personalised learning experiences. 05:48 – Challenges in Implementing Technology i

#327 The 'Wolf Pack' Principle: Why Collaboration Will Define the Future of Education

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of education with Ben Whitaker, known as the Ideas Guy. With a background in religious studies and a passion for edtech, Ben dives into the importance of critical thinking, the role of AI, and how technology can transform teaching and learning. This episode offers insights for educators, policymakers, and innovators shaping the future of education. Main Content Ben Whitaker's journey from religious studies teacher to edtech influencer and co-host of the eduFuturist podcast The evolution of Religious Education (RE) and its discursive, philosophy-based approach that fosters deep discussions How skills like critical thinking and examining multiple viewpoints are vital across different disciplines The origins and development of the eduFuturist podcast, focusing on future education and its broad scope beyond schools The ongoing challenge of educational technology usage: why some teachers still don't use simple tools effectively Debunking the myth that technology in education is less effective than traditional methods The concept of a "wolf pack" in education: collaboration and community as the strength of future learning ecosystems How AI and edtech won't replace teachers but will be embraced by those who adapt to change The importance of balancing knowledge and skills, core and extracurricular activities, and a holistic approach to education Future visions: a "pick-and-mix" model where parents and students have increased control over personalized learning pathways The influence of environment and personalization in student success, emphasizing diverse educational settings Ben's new book, "The Ideas Guy," showcasing insights from influential thinkers to inspire lateral thinking The power of understanding and managing neurodiversity like ADHD in education and the idea of superpowers in unique thinking styles Insights from Ben's international travel, including conferences in Cape Town and Bucharest, and the importance of global community building Upcoming initiatives: eduFuturist awards, regional community building, and ongoing projects to shape future education Track List 00:00 - Introduction to Ben Whitaker and his journey from religious studies teacher to edtech advocate 00:13 - The evolution of Religious Education and its discussion-driven approach 00:50 - The role of critical thinking and diverse

#326: Sky, Storytelling AI and the Future of Youth Education with Nishy Lall

Sky, Storytelling, AI and the Future of Youth Education with Nishy Lall In this episode of The EdTech Podcast, Philippa is joined by Nishy Lall, a strategic senior leader with over 15 years' experience shaping large-scale social impact, youth engagement, digital equity and inclusion programmes across the UK, Europe and the US. Nishy leads Sky's youth and social impact work, helping young people fulfil their potential through digital access, creativity, storytelling and real-world industry experiences. Through initiatives such as Sky Up Academy Studios, The Edit, and wider Sky youth programmes, she shares how Sky is opening doors into media, technology and creative careers for young people who may not otherwise see those pathways as available to them. This conversation explores how immersive media experiences, AI, creative technology and industry partnerships can help young people build confidence, communication skills, digital literacy and a stronger sense of belonging. From creating news reports in professional-style studios to using tools such as Adobe Express for storytelling challenges, Nishy explains how Sky's programmes support both teachers and learners by connecting curriculum, creativity and future skills. At the heart of the episode is a powerful message: opportunities shape futures. When young people are given access to the right environments, tools and encouragement, they can begin to see themselves differently — not as a finished article, but as someone with agency, curiosity and potential. Episode Summary Nishy Lall from Sky joins The EdTech Podcast to discuss how Sky's youth programmes are helping young people build confidence, skills and aspirations through digital media, AI, creative technology and real-world industry experiences. The conversation explores Sky Up Academy Studios, where young people step into studio environments, take on production roles, create their own news reports and experience the power of storytelling from script to screen. Nishy also shares the impact of The Edit, Sky's schools-based storytelling challenge developed with Adobe, which gives young people access to creative tools and the opportunity to explore themes such as climate change, diversity, mental health, wellbeing and media literacy. Philippa and Nishy discuss the role of AI in education, the importance of ethical and responsible use, and why young people should be supported to see technology as an enabler rather than a replacement for human creativity. They also explore digital equity, inclusion, teacher support, lifelong learning, creative career pathways and the importance of helping every young person feel that they belong in future-facing industries. Key Themes Sky's youth and social impact work Nishy shares how Sky's social impact programmes are designed to help young people fulfil their potential through digital access, creativity and future skills. Sky Up Academy Studios The episode explores how students visit immersive studio spaces, take on roles such as presenter, editor, director and camera operator, and create their own media content linked to curriculum themes. Digital equity and access Nishy describes digital equity as fairness — ensuring young people have access to tools, experiences and environments that allow them to express themselves and discover new possibilities. AI, creativity and responsible use The conversation explores how young people are already engaging with AI, why prompt literacy and critical thinking matter, and how AI can support ideation and storytelling when used responsibly. Creative technology and career pathways Sky's programmes help students understand the range of roles within media, broadcast, film, storytelling and creative technology, opening up pathways they may never have previously considered. Supporting teachers and curriculum learning The discussion highlights how media production can bring subjects such as history, geography, English, climate education and online safety to life in new and memorable ways. Belonging, confidence and inclusion Nishy shares examples of young people thriving in studio environments

#325 Unlocking the Power of Classroom Cloud: The Ultimate EdTech Solution for Schools

#325 Unlocking the Power of Classroom Cloud: The Ultimate EdTech Solution for Schools Most schools are struggling to keep students safe, engaged, and focused — but what if the right tech could change that? classroom.cloud is transforming classrooms worldwide with a platform that streamlines management, boosts safeguarding, and empowers teachers like never before. In this episode, educators and IT leaders reveal how this innovative tool is saving time, enhancing safety, and boosting student accountability, all while reducing paper waste and administrative overload. Discover how classroom.cloud's rapid deployment process gets lessons started in just three clicks, eliminating tedious log-ins and setup delays. We break down its powerful safeguarding features, including real-time keyword detection in multiple languages, AI-driven risk analysis, and evidence documentation with screenshots and recordings. Learn how these safety tools help teachers monitor and protect neurodiverse students, manage offline content, and respond swiftly to online risks—all seamlessly integrated into existing school ecosystems. You'll hear insights from educators across the globe sharing practical tips: how the platform simplifies onboarding, enhances remote and hybrid learning, and improves overall classroom flow. Topics include its user-friendly interface, robust safeguarding protocols, compatibility with major platforms like Google and Office 365, and its ability to generate detailed reports for leadership and safeguarding teams. Plus, explore future opportunities—like integrating AI feedback loops, developing real-time student-teacher interactions, and enhancing features for digital responsibility and student transparency. Why is it crucial to have a tool that adapts to diverse school environments, from managing BYOD policies to safeguarding across multiple languages? Because every minute saved and every risk mitigated means more focus on what truly matters—quality teaching and safe, inclusive learning. Schools that don't leverage such platforms risk falling behind in safety, efficiency, and engagement. This episode is perfect for school leaders, teachers, and IT professionals eager to cut workload, bolster safeguarding, and create dynamic, tech-powered classrooms. Whether you're considering your first edtech investment or seeking to upgrade your existing systems, the insights shared here will help you make an informed, impactful decision. Join us to explore how classroom.cloud is shaping the future of education—streamlined, safe, and ready for tomorrow's learners. Resources & Links: Classroom Cloud Official Website Google Workspace for Education Microsoft Education Tools NetSupport DNA <a id="menurmb" class= "fui-Link ___1q1shib f2hkw1w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1s184ao f1mk8lai fnbmjn9 f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6