Lesson 105 Homeschooling and artificial intelligence

[INTRO MUSIC]

 

HOST (Elle Cole):

Welcome to the Cleverly Changing Podcast, where we explore the world of homeschooling, parenting, and education. I’m your host, Elle Cole, and today we’re diving into the fascinating realm of artificial intelligence in homeschooling.

HOST (Elle Cole):
Artificial intelligence, or AI, isn’t just about robots and sci-fi movies. It’s a powerful tool that can enrich our children’s education in remarkable ways. We shouldn't be afraid of technology. It is a tool that we should learn how to use responsibly, and the lessons around technology should be taught in an educational setting or within the homeschool setting. Today, I’ll be sharing practical ways families can integrate AI into their homeschool curriculum.

I believe learning is about going on a knowledge adventure. STEM is huge in schools and today's job markets, so our children should be early adopters of how to train machines/computers intelligently.

HOST (Elle Cole):
Let's start with something fundamental—reading. AI-powered reading apps like Lexia Core5 or Epic! Books offer personalized learning paths. They adapt to a student’s reading level, providing targeted activities to improve comprehension and vocabulary.

SCENARIO 1: MORNING ROUTINE

HOST (Elle Cole):
Imagine this: It’s the start of a homeschool day. You’re gathered around the kitchen table, ready to dive into your lessons. But before you begin, why not start with an AI-powered news aggregator like Newsela? This tool provides tailored news articles suitable for different reading levels.

HOST (Elle Cole):
Next, you can select articles relevant to your curriculum, whether it’s history, science, or current events. It’s an excellent way to spark discussions and encourage critical thinking while keeping your kids informed about the world.

SCENARIO 2: STEM ACTIVITIES

HOST (Elle Cole):
For those science and tech enthusiasts, AI can be a game-changer. Have you heard of DIY projects like building a voice-controlled robot or coding with Scratch? These hands-on activities engage kids in the basics of AI and coding.

HOST (Elle Cole):
Platforms like Scratch offer a user-friendly interface that lets kids create animations, games, and interactive stories using coding blocks. It’s a fantastic way to introduce programming concepts while fostering creativity.

SCENARIO 3: PERSONALIZED LEARNING

HOST (Elle Cole):
One of the most remarkable aspects of AI in education is its ability to personalize learning experiences, which should be right in line with homeschoolers self-directed philosophies. Tools like Khan Academy or Coursera leverage AI algorithms to adapt content based on a child’s progress.

HOST (Elle Cole):
So, whether your child excels in math or needs extra help with grammar, these platforms adjust the difficulty level in real time. It’s like having a personal tutor catering to each child’s unique learning pace.

SCENARIO 4: ART AND AI

HOST (Elle Cole):
When it comes to art, AI isn't just about algorithms. Tools like Google’s AutoDraw or Adobe’s Sensei can assist budding artists. They provide suggestions and corrections while sketching or designing, making the creative process more intuitive and enjoyable.

SCENARIO 5: MATH & SCIENCE EXPLORATION

HOST (Elle Cole):
Now, let’s venture into the realms of math and science. AI-powered math platforms like Photomath  (which we missed during season 2) or Wolfram Alpha can be incredible aids. They help solve complex equations and offer step-by-step explanations, turning math problem-solving into an interactive experience. These tools can be especially helpful to parents needing a refresher to remind them how to do complex math problems. I used to watch how-to math videos on Youtube, workout the problem, and then use Photomath to ensure my answer and process were correct.

HOST (Elle Cole):
In science, AI simulators and software like