Dr Phil Cummins: The Tide Is In — AI Is Here

AI is already changing education. So why are we still trying to hold back the tide?

In this episode, Dan and Ray are joined by Dr Phil Cummins, educator, author, co-host of the Game Changers podcast, and Professor of Practice in Education and Leadership at the University of Sydney.

Phil argues that education needs to stop "pearl-clutching" over AI and start thinking seriously about what it means for assessment, curriculum and the role of teachers. If students are already using AI, how do we design authentic assessment around the knowledge, skills, dispositions, habits and wisdom we actually want them to develop?

The conversation ranges from Phil's beginnings teaching Latin to character education, equity, oracy and the danger of educational fads. At its heart is a powerful argument for the enduring importance of teachers: technology should amplify human relationships, not replace them.

For school leaders, Phil's message is refreshingly straightforward: treat AI as a game, learn to use the tools, and find a way to win the game of AI.

Links for more information

A School for tomorrow, Phil's education consulting/research organisation

Game Changers podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/game-changers/id1503430745

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5WoY7gvWZUWt4Iu3gL2atd?si=41f298a05db2415f

Sydney Character Initiative from the University of Sydney

Phil's latest book, On Character