
Hosted by Lisa Dieker · EN
Welcome to AI Advocates, a podcast focused on helping educators integrate artificial intelligence into their classrooms to save time, support learning, and create more opportunities for students. Hosted by Dr. Lisa Dieker and Dr. Maggie Mosher from the Achievement & Assessment Institute at the University of Kansas, this podcast shares practical tips, tools, and strategies for teachers looking to incorporate AI into their teaching practices safely and effectively.
In each episode, Lisa and Maggie break down different types of AI, including Narrow AI, Generative AI, and the growing field of Superintelligent AI. They share insights on how AI can support both educators and students while helping improve accessibility, equity, and learning outcomes in the classroom.
Whether you’re just starting to learn about AI or looking for ways to use it in your classroom, AI Advocates is your go-to resource for exploring what's possible in education. Tune in for short, bite-sized episodes packed with practical advice, thought-provoking discussions, and a few laughs along the way!

Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher sit down with David Blumenthal to talk about how AI can help make educational research easier and more accessible for educators. David shares the story behind Eddie, an AI powered tool built to help teachers quickly find research-based strategies and support for student learning and classroom challenges.Together, they discuss the growing challenge of information overload, how AI can help educators save time and make informed decisions, and the importance of keeping teachers at the center of learning.This episode offers a conversation about how tools like Eddie help educators spend less time searching for answers and more time supporting students.Listen now and join the conversation.Resources: https://www.eddieai.net/ Social Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher discuss how artificial intelligence can support teacher preparation and classroom creativity, from making syllabi more accessible through layered formats like videos and podcasts to designing “AI-proof” experiential assignments that encourage students to improve their skills in critical thinking, prompting, and problem-solving. During the episode, they introduce their new book, Empowered by AI: 10 Practical Approaches for Today’s Educators, describing it as a short, practical guide that helps educators quickly understand how AI can support their daily work without feeling overwhelmed. Throughout the conversation, they share examples of how AI can assist with tasks such as preparing presentations, tailoring professional development for specific audiences, and helping teachers reflect on whether technology is meaningfully supporting student learning. Organized in a chapter-by-chapter format, the book offers actionable strategies on lesson planning, tutoring, AI-driven feedback, accessibility, gamification, and developing AI fluency. By emphasizing process over specific tools, Lisa and Maggie position the book as a practical companion for educators who want to use AI responsibly, efficiently, and creatively, encouraging teachers to view AI not as a replacement for the human elements of teaching, but as an assistant that helps reclaim time, personalize learning, and strengthen instructional design while keeping educators at the center of the learning process.Purchase here: Empowered by AI: 10 Practical Approaches for Today’s EducatorsSocial Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher highlight free resources and training opportunities where educators and professionals can learn more about artificial intelligence. They share a wide range of accessible resources, from micro-credentials and LinkedIn learning pathways to courses like Elements of AI and AI for Everyone. The conversation features platforms such as Google AI, Microsoft AI for Beginners, Coursera, and tool-specific training, emphasizing the importance of building knowledge in areas like prompting, generative AI, large language models, and responsible AI use. Throughout the episode, Lisa and Maggie encourage listeners to take advantage of free learning opportunities by starting with skills that immediately impact their work and approaching AI with curiosity and a commitment to continuous growth. Resources:LinkedIn Learning - https://www.linkedin.com/learningElements of AI - https://www.elementsofai.comAI for Everyone - https://www.coursera.org/learn/ai-for-everyoneCoursera - https://www.coursera.orgGoogle AI Training - https://ai.google/learn-ai-skillsMicrosoft - https://learn.microsoft.com/en-usSocial Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher predict what the next five years of AI might look like in K–12 education. These predictions include how technology will shape classrooms, educators, and students. They discuss the rapid pace of innovation and the likelihood that AI will become a normalized tool used in schools every day. The conversation highlights both the opportunities and challenges ahead, including the need to prioritize mental health, set healthy boundaries with technology, and ensure AI reduces workload rather than adding stress. The conversation also highlights how students are becoming more fluent with AI and how classrooms may rely on them as leaders in navigating new tools. They anticipate a shift toward more human-centered connections, even as AI becomes integrated in daily life. Throughout the episode, they encourage educators to stay curious, flexible, and grounded in relationships, emphasizing that while AI will evolve quickly, strong human connection and thoughtful implementation will remain at the heart of teaching and learning.Resources:Be My Eyes - https://www.bemyeyes.com/ Social Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher discuss how artificial intelligence can act as a thought partner for educators as they navigate planning, problem solving, and everyday decisions. They explore ways AI can help with tasks like brainstorming lesson ideas, organizing materials, and creating classroom resources, while keeping the teacher’s expertise at the center. The episode includes examples of how educators can use AI to increase efficiency, personalize learning experiences for students, and reduce workload without sacrificing quality or creativity. Throughout the conversation, Lisa and Maggie remind listeners that AI works best when it supports human insight rather than replaces it, encouraging educators to approach AI with curiosity, optimism, and a focus on student learning.Resources:NotebookLM - https://notebooklm.google Gemini - https://gemini.google.com Social Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher kick off season four by addressing common fears and misconceptions about artificial intelligence in education, beginning with the concern that AI will replace teachers. They emphasize that while AI can support tasks such as answering questions and organizing information, it can never replace the relationships, empathy, and human connection that make the classroom special for students. The episode also explores concerns about AI’s environmental impact, with insights on energy use and the role educators play in demonstrating responsible AI use through prompting practices. Throughout the conversation, Lisa and Maggie encourage educators to move beyond fear and view AI as a supportive tool that enhances teaching while keeping teachers at the center of learning. Resources:NotebookLM - https://notebooklm.googleSocial Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

In this episode of AI Advocates, Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher explore how professional development is evolving and how educators can reclaim their time by taking ownership of their learning. They discuss how AI tools and peer collaboration can help teachers reflect on their practice, grow professionally, and improve classroom experiences beyond traditional workshops.This conversation invites educators to rethink what meaningful professional development can look like in a changing landscape with AI.Key insights include:Self-reflection that drives growth: An app called Socrait helps teachers analyze their own classroom interactions by tracking talk time, praise, interruptions, and how often students are called on. Personalized professional development with FLITE STEM Coaching: Lisa highlights how FLITE STEM: Coaching allows educators to tag their own teaching behaviors, reflect on video, and explore more than 770 math and science resources. Teachers can choose short, targeted learning experiences that address their specific needs.Supporting social skills with VOISS Advisor: VOISS Advisor offers educators guidance on teaching and assessing social skills using evidence-based practices. With videos, lesson plans, rubrics, and IEP aligned goals, teachers can build instructions without adding extra stress.Learning from peers: Lisa and Maggie emphasize that some of the best professional development already exists within schools. Short peer-led sessions, classroom visits, and shared conversations often provide more relevant learning than traditional training.Using free AI tools and training: Educators do not need expensive programs to get started. Many platforms offer free tutorials and resources that help teachers explore AI, coding, and instructional tools alongside their students.Resources:Socrait - https://socrait.app/login FLITE STEM: Coaching - https://flitestemcoaching.org/ VOISS Advisor - https://voissadvisor.org/Social Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

In this episode of AI Advocates, Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher dive into the theme of “pivoting” with AI in education. They talk about how educators can go beyond simply asking why we should change and start actively embracing the shift. With relatable classroom examples and moments of humor, Lisa and Maggie unpack how AI can act like a second brain, offering fresh, personalized solutions to everyday teaching challenges.Key insights include:Pivoting with AI: Teachers do not have to wait for the perfect plan to start using AI. Sometimes the best way to adapt is to simply start and adjust as needed.Using AI for Problem Solving: AI can offer quick, fun, and student-centered responses to problems like disengagement or ineffective instruction, turning small frustrations into exciting opportunities.Supportive Tool: AI can function as a supportive tool that helps educators think through next steps, brainstorm ideas, and build out new approaches without replacing their work.Letting Go of Perfection: This episode encourages educators to try, tweak, and learn. Embracing AI does not require perfection, just curiosity and the willingness to pivot.Social Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

In this episode of AI Advocates, Lisa Dieker and Maggie Mosher reflect on what it means to teach in a world where artificial intelligence is everywhere. They ask tough questions like why change and how educators should adapt when AI can write essays, solve math problems, and generate answers instantly. This episode launches a new series focused on change and challenges the idea that content delivery alone defines great teaching. Instead, it encourages deeper thinking about creativity, connection, and human purpose in the classroom. Key insights include:Rethinking the Role of the Teacher: When AI can provide answers in seconds, the teacher's role shifts from information provider to learning guide and critical thinking coach.Leading with Purpose: Educators are encouraged to ask why change matters and how they can stay focused on student growth rather than just keeping up with new tools.Teaching Beyond Content: AI may solve problems, but it cannot replicate relationships, empathy, or personal mentorship. Teachers still play a vital role in student development.Creating Meaningful Engagement: The future of teaching lies in fostering curiosity, creativity, and real-world relevance, not just checking off standards or automating instruction.Staying Curious: Embracing change with an open mind allows educators to grow alongside their students and use AI as a tool rather than a threat.Social Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center

In this episode of AI Advocates, Maggie Mosher and Lisa Dieker reflect on exploring AI tools and strategies for the classroom. Framing the conversation as a roadmap to leveling up AI integration in education, they revisit key themes such as AI as a lesson planner, a STEM simulator, and a classroom collaborator. They also preview their upcoming book and share insights on how educators can continue advancing their AI journey into the next semester. The episode encourages teachers to build on what they have learned and to keep exploring how AI can enhance student engagement, creativity, and support. AI Tools:Magic School AI - https://www.magicschool.ai/Khanmigo - https://www.khanmigo.ai/ SchoolAI - https://schoolai.com/ Diffit - https://web.diffit.me/ EL Bot -https://www.canva.com/design/DAF4ZnhZ8TI/bGhftIi8zBjLuBFANJBP2w/view?utm_content=DAF4ZnhZ8TI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editorSocial Media:X - https://x.com/KUFLITECenterFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-for-Flexible-Learning-through-Innovations-in-Technology-Education/61563791019174/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/aai-flite-center