How AI is Transforming Education: Navigating Innovation, Ethics and Security

In this episode of EdTech Elevated, Lisa March speaks with Dr. Federica Fornaciari, Academic Program Director at National University, about the ethical implications of AI in education. Dr. Fornaciari explains how AI tools not only solve problems but often redefine them, shifting the focus from critical thinking and creativity to engagement metrics and measurable outcomes. She highlights the importance of ethical AI development, urging creators to anticipate unintended consequences, address bias, and design systems that prioritize student privacy, autonomy, and equitable access.

The conversation explores the risks of commodifying student data and the need for transparency and accountability in EdTech. Dr. Fornaciari emphasizes that AI-powered educational platforms should inspire curiosity and deeper learning rather than simply maximize engagement. She encourages EdTech developers to collaborate with educators, ethicists, and policymakers from the outset to ensure technology supports meaningful learning experiences. 

Sponsored by Partner in Publishing:

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Bookmarks:

 00:00 Introduction to EdTech Elevated

01:00  Introducing Dr. Federica Fornaciari

01:24  AI in Education: Solving Problems or Redefining Them?

03:09  Unintended Consequences of AI in Learning

03:50  Bias in AI: Whose Values Shape the Tools?

04:30  The Portfolio of Risks Approach in AI Development

05:09  Democratization of AI: Opportunity and Responsibility

06:05  Ethics in AI: Shaping Minds, Not Just Learning Experiences

07:47  Balancing Accuracy vs. Engagement in AI Tools

10:00  Autonomy and Equality: AI’s Double-Edged Sword

12:02  How AI Can Widen or Bridge Educational Gaps

13:44  Commodification of Privacy: How Data Becomes Currency

15:26  AI and the Erosion of Privacy in Education

18:03  Data Responsibility: Trust, Consent, and Security in EdTech

20:42  Securing Student Data: Privacy by Design Principles

22:56  The Engagement Trap: Motivation vs. Clicks in AI Learning

28:57  Ethical AI Development: Transparency, Fairness, and Collaboration

31:48  Dr. Fornaciari’s Teaching Approach: Preparing Students for AI Challenges

34:00  The Evolving Role of Educators in an AI World

36:25  Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead

Resources:  

Lisa March 

Federica Fornaciari, Ph. D. 

Partner in Publishing Website