Interview with PBS NewsHour Classroom discussing ed tech integration in a social studies classroom and its impact on work at Samsung, focusing on transforming teaching, demonstrating adaptability, and Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow competition.
Here is a summary of key interview themes:
Early Adoption of EdTech: discussion on embracing educational technology early, using tools like computers, tablets, and interactive displays to enhance learning retention.
EdTech Builds Confidence: leveraging technology to enable quieter, introverted students to participate via tools like digital parking lots, backchanneling, and microblogging, eventually building confidence to share more openly.
Timeless Teaching Practices + Tech: emphasis on effective traditional methods (like apprenticeship models) remaining valuable, but tech, like AI assistants, have the potential to enhance a teacher’s ability to support more students individually.
Teaching AI Use Responsibly: Students should first develop foundational skills (reading, writing, critical thinking) in class, then use AI tools at home for co-creation and editing—mirroring thoughtful instructional practices.
Our “Pencil Moment” Analogy: Just as past educators questioned how to integrate pencils, today’s teachers are asking similar questions about AI. Technology adoption is a long-standing part of education.
Samsung’s “Solve for Tomorrow” Program: Celebrated as a philanthropic initiative where students tackle local issues connected to global challenges, guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Local Problems, Global Impact: Solving issues like food deserts teaches students that their local solutions can benefit global communities facing similar problems.
Modeling Innovation and Agency: Teachers trying new tech should model vulnerability and perseverance, showing students the value of taking risks, learning through failure, and pushing through uncertainty.
Teaching Life Skills Through Struggle: Letting students witness real-time problem-solving and failure (e.g., tech not working) helps teach adaptability, resilience, and critical life skills that transcend academic content.