In this introductory episode, Jethro welcomes Matt Karabinos as the new host of Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk — formerly A Vision for Learning. Matt shares his background as a recently-practicing classroom teacher and his current work helping schools, educators, students, and administrators make sense of AI in education.

Together, Jethro and Matt explore what makes AI different from past edtech initiatives: it is not just another tool, search engine, or “vending machine.” Used well, AI can become a thought partner that helps teachers reimagine lessons, create new learning experiences, and solve real classroom problems without starting from scratch.

Matt also introduces the mindset behind his CURVE framework, beginning with curiosity. For educators wondering where to start, this conversation offers a simple invitation: be curious, try something small, and let AI help you see new possibilities for teaching and learning.

In this episode

Matt Karabinos’ move from the classroom into regional AI and emerging technology support
Why AI in education needs to stay grounded in real teacher experience
The future direction of Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk
Moving beyond AI as a search engine or “vending machine”
How teachers can use AI to reimagine lessons instead of replacing their own expertise
A practical classroom example: turning a tired morning lesson into an active number-line activity
Why educators do not need to relearn everything or become technical experts
Curiosity as the real entry point for using AI well
Matt’s CURVE framework and the mindset teachers need in this moment
How sharing your learning publicly can become a professional portfolio

Key takeaways

AI is most powerful when used as a thought partner, not just a content generator.
Teachers do not have to throw out what already works; AI can help them adjust, remix, and improve from where they already are.
The best starting point is not technical skill — it is curiosity.
Asking AI for multiple options often produces better results than asking for one perfect answer.
Educators can enter the AI conversation from any level of experience.
Sharing what you are learning can open doors and demonstrate expertise in ways a résumé alone cannot.

Guest

Matt Karabinos is a former classroom teacher and current emerging technology and project specialist. He supports schools and educators as they navigate AI policy, classroom practice, student use, professional learning, and the broader shifts AI is bringing to education. He also runs student programs and regional competitions, including FIRST LEGO League, Scholastic Quiz League, Reading Competition, and Math24.

Find Matt on TikTok: @MrKAllDay

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.

Learn more about Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

Simplify and streamline technology
Save teachers’ time
Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
Improve student performance on state assessments

🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.