This week, we dive deep into the promises—and pitfalls—of AI-powered tutors in K-12 education. Visionaries like Sam Altman and Sal Khan predict that AI could revolutionize the classroom, but how close are we to that reality? Khan Academy’s Khanmigo is already in action, working as a non-judgmental “study buddy,” while other startups race to create similar tools. But not everyone’s convinced.
Robert and Haley dig into the big questions: Will AI truly deliver personalized learning at scale, or are we just caught up in another tech hype cycle? We hear from skeptics like Robbie Torney of Common Sense Media, who draws parallels between AI tutors and past overhyped ed tech like “blended learning.” Meanwhile, companies like Buddy.AI tackle critical needs like language learning, but face tough questions around child privacy and regulation.
We explore why educators remain cautious, with only 6% of AI-using teachers tapping into intelligent tutoring systems. And yet, student-driven adoption of AI mirrors past trends seen with platforms like YouTube. Is this a sign of real change or just another passing fad?
Join us as we break down the promises, pitfalls, and the critical role of human teachers in the age of AI. If you’re curious about the future of education or just worried about the next generation’s screen time, this episode is for you.
