#56 Wide Walls, Not Narrow Hallways: How to Build Agency in a World of AI with Eric Hudson

AI is reshaping education—but how do we ensure it enhances learning without eroding foundational skills, student agency, or global competence?

Pain Points:

• “How do we balance AI-assisted learning with essential human skills?”

• “What’s the role of teachers in an AI-driven future?”

• “How do we ensure AI is a tool for agency, not a crutch?”

🔥 Our guest, Eric Hudson, is an expert in learner-centered education, AI literacy, and global learning. As a former Director at Global Online Academy, he’s seen firsthand how digital tools can empower students—when used with intention.

🎤 Key Topics Discussed:

• The balance between foundational skills and AI-powered learning

• Why decision-making & agency are the most important AI-era skills

• The vulnerability spectrum: Knowing when AI should—or shouldn’t—step in

• AI’s impact on global learning and cross-cultural education

• Lessons from Global Online Academy: How passion-based, tech-enabled learning works

Guest Links:

📍 Eric Hudson’s Substack: Learning on Purpose

References & External Mentions:

• Global Online Academy (GOA) – globalonlineacademy.org

• Scratch (MIT Media Lab’s Lifelong Kindergarten Group) – scratch.mit.edu

• UNESCO AI & Education Guidelines – UNESCO

• International Baccalaureate (IB) AI Guidance – ibo.org

Host Links:

 Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.