Teaching in the Age of AI: How Educators Can Lead the Change

While concerns about AI replacing teachers persist, the reality is far more complex—and filled with opportunity. This technology shift calls for a reimagining of the teacher’s role, where professional judgement, leadership and curiosity take centre stage.

In this episode, Dr Jo Blannin unpacks what generative AI actually is, why it’s more than just a tech tool, and how teachers can lead its meaningful and ethical use in schools. Secondary School teacher Miguel Regalo shares how he and his colleagues are using AI on the ground - from supporting lesson planning and differentiation, to parent communication and professional reflection. 

You’ll also hear how AI tools like ATLAS are being used in initial teacher education, and why the challenge ahead isn’t about keeping up with the technology - but shifting the mindset around how it’s used in, and out of, the classroom. 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What generative AI actually is - and how it works in simple terms.
• How teachers and students are already using AI in practical ways. 
• The ethical concerns around privacy, bias and student data.  
• How AI is shaping assessment, learning design and workload. 
• Where to start if you’re AI curious but not sure where to begin.

Topics we explore:

(00:00) Introduction to Generative AI
(01:57) Big Questions about AI
(02:52) What is Generative AI? 
(06:20) Using AI in the Classroom
(07:36) Ethics, Privacy and Data Safety
(12:18) How Teachers Are Using AI 
(15:16) Understanding and Adopting AI
(18:02) Effective Leadership in School Change
(19:00) How Students Are Using AI
(19:49) Rethinking Assessment with AI
(26:08) Atlas Project: Real-World Teaching Practice
(29:41) Where to Start if You’re AI Curious

Resources: 

• ATLAS (Automated Teaching and Learning at Scale)
  An AI-powered simulation tool used for professional development, including roleplays for parent-teacher interviews, mentoring conversations and behaviour support.
• Monash University - AI Short Course
  Explore Artificial Intelligence courses and delve into the dynamic realm of possibilities. 
• Supporting Teachers and Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence - Research Project (Jo Blannin)
  This project aims to investigate teacher capabilities to respond to, and engage with, Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in their classrooms and online teaching.

Special Guests: 
Associate Professor Jo Blannin
Senior Lecturer, School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusive Education
Faculty of Education, Monash University
Connect with Jo on LinkedIn

Miguel Regalo
Professional Growth & eLearning Leader
Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
Connect with Miguel on LinkedIn

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If you’re interested in hearing more about the short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate study options that Monash Education offers, please visit our website.

We are grateful for the support of Monash University’s Faculty of Education in producing this podcast.