In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we’re tackling one of the hottest topics in the world right now—AI, specifically generative AI, and its impact on education.
Elana sits down with EdTech expert and long-time friend, Mary Beth Hertz, who has spent decades thinking critically about the role of technology in education. Known for her thoughtful approach, Mary Beth isn’t swayed by the latest trends or flashy innovations. She asks the tough questions that keep us all grounded—ensuring that technology is always used with the ultimate goal of improving learning outcomes for students.
Together, they dive deep into the current state of AI in education, discussing how it can be leveraged effectively without losing sight of what truly matters: the students. Beyond AI, they explore the broader landscape of EdTech and what the industry must do to better support both educators and learners during these rapidly changing times.
If you're navigating the complex world of EdTech and wondering how AI can play a role in enhancing education, this conversation is for you. Tune in for an insightful discussion that will leave you with practical takeaways and a fresh perspective on the future of technology in education.
Questions Asked:
With so much innovation happening in EdTech, it’s an exciting time to be in the field. What are you most excited about right now? Are there any specific tools, trends, or approaches that you think have the potential to transform the way we teach and learn?
What do you wish EdTech companies and tools focused more on, particularly when it comes to supporting educators and students in meaningful ways?
What advice would you give to educational leaders on how they can better support the integration of technology into the classroom in a way that benefits both teachers and students?"
Why do you think it’s so important for educators to effectively weave these skills into existing lessons, and how can they do so without overwhelming students?
What are some innovative strategies or approaches you’ve seen or recommend for teaching students about the responsible use of technology and media in their everyday lives?
Can you share any successful initiatives or programs you’ve been involved with or have observed that have made a real difference in how students engage with technology and media?"
How do you envision the future of education when it comes to technology integration? What role will emerging technologies like AI, VR, or personalized learning platforms play in keeping students engaged and preparing them for the future?
Here's the full transcript of MaryBeth’s podcast episode.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Code.org (AI Videos) – Used to explain AI concepts to students in a digestible way, including how AI functions.
Ruler (EdTech Tool) – A platform where students can build portfolios with videos, images, and reflections, creating a timeline of their journey.
Blaze (EdTech Tool) – A tool that allows schools to post community partner internships or opportunities for students to sign up and track their participation.
Steve Blank's Startup Methodology – Referenced in relation to startup research, especially conducting stakeholder interviews.
Lean Startup by Eric Ries – Mentioned as part of EdTech methodology discussions.
ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) – Mentioned as a key conference for EdTech networking and learning.
The Raven Boys series by Maggie Stiefvater – A fantasy series that Mary Beth Hertz enjoys for escapism.
The Dreamer Trilogy by Maggie Stiefvater – A follow-up to *The Raven Boys*, also enjoyed by Mary Beth Hertz.
Legend of Korra – The second series in the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe, which Mary Beth Hertz watches with her kids and uses to spark conversations about complex relationships and family dynamics.
Get in touch with MaryBeth: LinkedIn
Elana Leoni, Host
Elana Leoni has dedicated the majority of her career to improving K-12 education. Prior to founding LCG, she spent eight years leading the marketing and community strategy for the George Lucas Educational Foundation where she grew Edutopia’s social media presence exponentially to reach over 20 million education change-makers every month.
MaryBeth Hertz, Guest
Mary Beth Hertz has been teaching young people in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been at the forefront of technology integration in the classroom. She was a 2010 ISTE Emerging Leader, a 2013 ASCD Emerging Leader, 2013 PAECT Teacher of the Year, and is a co-founder of EdCamp Philly and the Edcamp Foundation. Her book, Digital and Media Literacy in the Age of the Internet: Practical Classroom Applications shares her experience and expertise teaching digital and media literacy in K-12 classrooms. She is also the Executive Director of Walkabout Education, championing experiential and work-based learning experience and purpose-driven experiences for young people. Mary Beth believes that young people can do more than we give them credit for and that education serves as the launch pad to young people realizing themselves and their potential in the context of the world and community they inhabit.
About All Things Marketing and Education
What if marketing was judged solely by the level of value it brings to its audience? Welcome to All Things Marketing and Education, a podcast that lives at the intersection of marketing and you guessed it, education. Each week, Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, highlights innovative social media marketing, community-building, and content marketing strategies that can significantly increase reach, relationships, and revenue.
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