Deep Learning Dialogues

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett are joined by Dr. Alec Couros to discuss the vital role of "productive struggle" in an era of instant AI outputs. Dr. Couros breaks down the concepts from his viral article, "The Shortcut That Costs Us Everything," warning against a "reverse-Bloom’s Taxonomy" where students analyze AI text without ever learning to compose it themselves. The conversation explores how to "protect the first draft" as a sacred space for human thought and identity. From the risks of "Model Autography Disorder" (MAD) to practical classroom strategies like "Think-Pair-AI-Share," this episode offers a roadmap for using AI as a critical collaborator rather than a replacement for student voice.Episode Links:LinkedInSubstackThink-Pair-AI ShareDr. Alec Couros is a Professor of Educational Technology and Media at the University of Regina and a globally recognized leader in open education and digital citizenship. Throughout his career, he has explored the intersection of technology and pedagogy, recently focusing on the ethical and cognitive implications of generative AI in the classroom. Through his research and popular Substack, Alec advocates for "protecting the human in the loop," emphasizing the importance of preserving the "friction of thinking" and the integrity of the student’s first draft in an increasingly automated world. You can follow his work on Substack or on social media at @courosa.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett are joined by Jordan Figueiredo the principal of St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School. Jordan shares his leadership stance on artificial intelligence, moving beyond simple "guardrails" to foster a culture of curiosity and vulnerability among his staff. The conversation explores how to manage the "ping-pong" effect of innovation and how to establish the psychological safety necessary for educators to move from "shadow use" of AI to shared, open practice. From leveraging "lead learners" in staff meetings to using AI "Gems" for analyzing student achievement data, Jordan illustrates how a human-centered approach to technology can actually amplify relationships and professional practice in a large secondary school.Jordan Figueiredo is the Principal of St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School in Cambridge Ontario. Known for his commitment to building a culture of openness and innovation, Jordan focuses on supporting both student and adult learning through collaborative leadership and professional trust. He is an advocate for "being vulnerable on purpose and out loud," encouraging his staff to experiment with new tools like AI without the fear of failure. Beyond his administrative duties, Jordan is active on Instagram (@jordangfigueiredo), where he shares reels aimed at bringing levity and joy to the role of school leadership. He is currently exploring the potential of AI assistants to streamline school operations and better align with strategic system goals.Episode Resource Links:-WCDSB Zero to Infinity Scale-Tutorial Video: How to create a Gem-Webinar: AI-Resistant Assessment: the ADAPT FrameworkWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett visit St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School in Cambridge, Ontario to speak with the creators and members of the Benny's Innovator Group (BIG). This student-led initiative, facilitated by teachers Lindsay LeBeau and Lisa Wollziefer, focuses on bringing AI literacy to the school community through interactive workshops. The conversation explores the importance of peer-to-peer learning, where students act as "translators" to help both their classmates and teachers understand how to use generative AI tools effectively and ethically. From discussing the "zero to infinity" mindset to sharing the nerve-wracking but rewarding experience of leading a classroom, students highlight how this program is building essential global competencies and fostering a culture of curiosity and human connection in the age of AI.You can read more about the episode here.About Our GuestsLindsay LeBeau: A teacher at St. Benedict who entered the profession after a 15-year career in nursing. She brings her passion for teaching and healthcare to the school and co-founded BIG to empower students to lead through innovation.Lisa Wollziefer: A teacher at St. Benedict who recently transitioned from elementary to secondary education. With a background in the tech and fitness industries, she co-facilitates BIG and is dedicated to using AI to free up time for deeper human connections with her students.Aliaa, Taha, and Umar: Grade 11 students at St. Benedict and leading members of the Benny’s Innovator Group. Driven by interests ranging from software engineering to a general love of learning, these student leaders facilitate workshops that bridge the gap between complex technology and classroom practice, helping their peers and teachers navigate the ethical use of AI.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, educator Rosie Curie and three of her students Savannah, Dani, and Lilly, discuss the evolving role of generative artificial intelligence in the classroom. Moving away from traditional, rigid rules, the conversation highlights a collaborative approach toward AI literacy, transparency and what it the purpose of school and learning. Rosie and her students describe a sketch note lesson about the illusion of an assignment that helps frame the conversation around AI and academic integrity. The conversation then moves into the development of the "Zero to Infinity" assessment framework, created with student and teacher input to provide clear boundaries and examples of appropriate AI use for specific assignments. The episode explores how involving student voices helps bridge the gap between adult policies and the reality of how these tools are used, ultimately framing education as a journey where AI can support, rather than bypass, the vital struggle of learning.Rosie Curie is a secondary school teacher at St. Benedict Secondary School who is recognized for a practice that prioritizes authentic learning. She is an innovative educator who utilizes creative methods, such as hand-drawn sketch notes, to spark deep reflections with her students about the purpose of school and the nature of deep learning. Her collaborative work with Savannah, Dani, and Lilly was instrumental in refining the "Zero to Infinity" AI framework, ensuring the language and visuals were accessible and meaningful for all learners. Rosie’s approach centers on building trust and empathy, helping students navigate the ethical line between AI as a helpful tool and as a replacement for human thought.You can read the full summary article here.Additional resources:The AI Assessment Scale (AIAS): A Framework For Ethical Integration Of Generative AI In Educational AssessmentGenerative AI Acceptable Use Scale Adapted by Vera CuberoWCDSB Zero to Infinity InformationWCDSB GenAI GuidelinesWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett dive into the heart of academic integrity in the age of generative AI. Moving away from the "policing" mindset of AI detectors, they introduce the Zero to Infinity scale, a research-based, WCDSB-specific framework designed to bring transparency to the classroom. The conversation highlights how this five-zone tool was refined with WCDSB teachers and students. By focusing on "formation over automation," the hosts discuss how educators can design assessments that prioritize the human process of learning over the final AI-assisted product. You can read the full summary article here.Explore the resources mentioned in this episode:The AI Assessment Scale (AIAS): A Framework For Ethical Integration Of Generative AI In Educational AssessmentGenerative AI Acceptable Use Scale Adapted by Vera CuberoWCDSB Zero to Infinity InformationWCDSB GenAI GuidelinesADAPT FrameworkWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, entrepreneur and AI literacy advocate Kate Arthur explores the evolving landscape of education, challenging the traditional model of the teacher as a "knowledge keeper". She suggests a transition toward becoming a "chaperone of knowledge" who guides students through a world where AI often serves as the primary information source. The conversation explores the importance of human agency, the physical and environmental realities of the "cloud," and why AI literacy must be treated as essential social infrastructure to ensure data sovereignty and digital equity. By prioritizing human-centric skills like critical thinking, storytelling, and open curiosity, this episode provides a roadmap for helping the next generation navigate a rapidly shifting technological landscape without losing their unique human voice. You can read the episode summary article here.Kate Arthur is a founder and advocate with over 25 years of experience leading social enterprises at the intersection of technology, education, and ethics. As the founder of Digital Moment, she has introduced digital skills to more than one million youth and thousands of educators globally. An advisor to international bodies such as UNESCO and UNICEF, Arthur contributes to the development of inclusive AI policies and has served as a Canadian delegate to the United Nations. She is the author of Am I Literate? Redefining Literacy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence and the forthcoming Algorithm to Adulthood, focusing on the human skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.You can find Kate:LinkedInSubstack On AI & LiteracyWebsiteWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Deep Learning Dialogues explores the seismic shifts in education and global power triggered by the "step change" in agentic AI. Dr. Mark Daly introduces the "Tower of Abstraction," a metaphor for how technology evolves to hide complexity, and argues that teaching foundational skills like coding and essay writing remains essential, not for the final product, but to build the mental "muscles" required to think and structure logic. The conversation moves from the classroom to the global stage, framing "compute" as a strategic national resource akin to oil or steel and highlighting Canada’s potential as an energy and AI superpower. Ultimately, Daly offers a deeply optimistic vision for the future of K-12 education: as machines automate cognitive labor, the human "value proposition" shifts from being "smart" to being kind, authentic, and connected through the arts and community. You can read the full article summary here.Dr. Mark Daley is Western University’s first-ever Chief AI Officer and a Scholar in Residence in AI at NSERC. A respected researcher in neural computation, his career includes serving as Vice-President Research at CIFAR, where he helped lead Canada’s national AI strategy. Mark is a remarkably multidisciplinary scholar, holding cross-appointments in departments ranging from Computer Science and Biology to Epidemiology and Biostatistics. A frequent "guiding voice" for educators , he is known for his early clarity on why AI detection is mathematically impossible and for his Substack, Noetic Engines, where he explores the intersection of technology and humanity. Recently trained in international mediation in Paris , Mark combines high-level executive leadership with a deep commitment to helping students find "mattering" and purpose in an automated world.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett explore the complex intersection of artificial intelligence and human values with Father Philip Larrey. Under the title "The Alignment Problem: Bridging the Gap Between Tech and Tradition," the conversation delves into the philosophical distinction between a machine's ability to "select" and a human's capacity to "choose". Father Larrey shares insights from his extensive work with Silicon Valley leaders and the Vatican, addressing critical issues such as the "black box" of AI decision-making, the ethical implications of the European AI Act, and how ancient wisdom from thinkers like Aristotle can provide a necessary framework for navigating the future of generative AI. Read the summary here.Fr. Philip Larrey, Ph.D., is a Catholic priest and professor of philosophy at Boston College, where his work focuses on the philosophy of knowledge and the impact of the digital era on society. He previously spent over 20 years in Rome, serving as the Chair of Logic and Epistemology and Dean of the Philosophy Department at the Pontifical Lateran University in the Vatican. As the chairman of Humanity 2.0—a non-profit collaborating with the Vatican to promote human flourishing—he is a leading voice in global discussions on AI ethics and has authored several influential books, including Connected World and Artificial Humanity. Based in Boston, Fr. Philip continues to engage with industry giants and international organizations like the United Nations to bridge the gap between technological advancement and ethical responsibility.Find more information about Father Philip Larrey:https://philiplarrey.com/ LinkedInWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Patricia Kosseim discusses the landmark Enhancing Digital Security and Trust Act (EDSTA). The conversation explores the shifting landscape of student privacy in the age of generative AI. Commissioner Kosseim shares use cases regarding unauthorized "Shadow AI" and offers a roadmap for educators to empower students with the data hygiene skills necessary to navigate a transparent digital future. You can read the article here.Patricia Kosseim is the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario. She is a lawyer by profession and has extensive experience as a senior executive working in complex, inter-disciplinary environments, across public, private and health sectors. Through integration of legal practice, public policy and academic research, she has led large teams and major strategic initiatives to address ethical, legal and social implications of emerging technologies. She connects people and creative ideas to advance critical reflection, converge around common goals and work towards practical solutions. In March 2025, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, in recognition of her valuable contribution to Ontario and to Canada.Find further information at:ipc.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ipc.ontario/Resources Mentioned:2025 Global Privacy Enforcement Network sweep focuses on the protection of children’s privacyPrivacy Pursuit! Lesson PlansA Guide to Privacy and Access to Information in Ontario SchoolsDigital Privacy Charter - 12 commitments supporting teachers and studentsYouth ambassador tool kitYouth advisory councilWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, WCDSB Director of Education Annalisa Varano explores the intersection of faith, leadership, and generative AI within the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. Adopting a human-centered vision, Varano emphasizes that AI is a tool designed to enhance the sacred relationship between educators and students. The conversation delves into how WCDSB uses Catholic Social Teachings as a "litmus test" for new technology, ensuring every innovation honors human dignity, promotes the common good, and fosters equity. From reimagining authentic assessments to leveraging AI for administrative efficiency, Varano outlines a strategic roadmap where technology serves the mission of the "whole child," grounding the board’s upcoming Multi-Year Strategic Plan in the pillars of learning, serving, and belonging.You can read the full episode summary here.Annalisa Varano is the Director of Education for the Waterloo Catholic District School Board, bringing over 27 years of distinguished experience in Catholic education to the role. Her extensive career includes 23 years with the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board and global teaching experience in Australia and South Korea. A former President of the Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario, she has led at the provincial level and overseen diverse portfolios including K–12 student success, virtual learning, and experiential programming. Annalisa is a practicing Catholic and strategic leader dedicated to navigating the future of education through a lens of discernment, equity, and innovation.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett explore the practical steps required for educators to move from being "AI aware" to "AI fluent". Guest Meghan Hargrave discusses how to bridge the digital divide by integrating generative AI into K-12 classrooms with a focus on purpose and pedagogy rather than just buzzwords. The conversation covers actionable strategies for using AI as a "thought partner" for tasks such as creating formative assessments and brainstorming for Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Listeners will also learn about the importance of establishing a shared language for AI use within school systems and maintaining a balance between technology and the development of students' authentic personal voices.Read the full summary here.Meghan Hargrave is an educational consultant, coach, and former teacher who specializes in literacy and instructional practices. She is the owner of Meghan M. Hargrave, LLC, where she works with K-12 schools and systems to translate complex research and board demands into practical classroom strategies. As an expert in educational technology, Meghan is the co-author of The Artificial Intelligence Playbook and Teaching Students to Use AI Ethically and Responsibly. Her work focuses on helping educators and caregivers navigate the noise of modern educational technology to support student learning through purposeful, research-grounded tools.You can find Meghan on LinkedIn, Instagram @letmeknowhowitgoes and on her website https://www.meghanhargrave.com/ Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett engage with Giancarlo Brotto, an educator and AI advocate, to explore the intersection of education, artificial intelligence, and ethics. They discuss the importance of viewing AI as a gift that should serve humanity, the varying perspectives of students and educators on AI, and the need for moral discernment in its use. The conversation emphasizes the role of educators in guiding students through the complexities of AI, the necessity of integrating AI into the curriculum, and the importance of vulnerability and co-learning in the classroom. Brotto calls for a collective effort to ensure that faith-based institutions lead the way in navigating AI's challenges and opportunities.Giancarlo Brotto is a dynamic Canadian educator, strategist, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience helping schools and ministries harness technology to better serve students. A former university and secondary mathematics teacher, he transitioned into leadership roles and founded PAVE EDU, a company that guides school systems, governments, and businesses through AI adoption. His work focuses on preparing educators and families to thrive in an AI-infused world by grounding innovation in ethics and social-emotional learning. Within the Catholic community, he is known for his presentation Navigating Faith and Wisdom, where he encourages using a moral compass to encounter AI as a gift that aligns with Catholic social teachings.You can find Giancarlo on LinkedIn and Instagram.Show Links:Encountering Artificial Intelligence pdfhttps://paveedu.org/ http://aireadyschools.caWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, hosts Katrina Gouett and Whitney McKinley welcome Jennifer Addison, Project Manager for the AI for Good Lab at Mila, Quebec’s artificial intelligence institute. Jennifer details the lab’s mission to equip women and gender-diverse individuals with the skills to build machine learning projects, fostering a more inclusive tech culture and inspiring leaders to use AI for social good. The conversation explores the power of curiosity-driven learning and the importance of creating safe, grade-free environments where students feel empowered to ask questions, collaborate rather than compete, and challenge the status quo. They also discuss how K-12 educators can adopt these principles by becoming co-learners alongside their students to navigate the evolving AI landscape together.Jennifer Addison is the Project Manager for the AI4Good Lab at Mila - Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute. The Lab is a 7-week program that equips women and gender diverse people with the skills to build their own machine learning projects. The program is designed to open doors for those who have historically been underrepresented in the AI industry, contribute to a more inclusive and diverse tech culture and to inspire the next generation of leaders to use AI as a tool for social good.Prior to Mila, Jennifer worked in Human Resources at the Business Development Bank of Canada where she contributed to the development and advancement of the corporate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility strategy. With over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector, in the US and Canada, she specializes in developing and implementing programs designed to address and disrupt structural inequities and discrimination experienced by equity-deserving communities.You can find Jennifer on LinkedInWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett are joined by Dr. Jennifer Hove, Director of Data and Reporting at EQAO, to navigate the complex intersection of artificial intelligence and large-scale assessment. Dr. Hove outlines the agency’s "slow and steady" roadmap to AI adoption, emphasizing a human-centered framework where Ontario educators remain the primary drivers of assessment creation and scoring. The conversation explores how EQAO is looking to leverage technology for quality assurance rather than replacement , the challenges of maintaining academic integrity in a digital landscape , and the rigorous review processes ensuring fairness, validity, and bias mitigation. Tune in for an insightful look at how EQAO is building public trust and preparing for the future of education while keeping student equity at the forefront.Dr. Jennifer Hove is the Director of Data and Reporting at EQAO, where she oversees the agency's psychometrics, data science, research, and IT teams to drive digital transformation and generate actionable educational insights. With over two decades of experience spanning academia, government, and the K-12 sector, Dr. Hove is a recognized leader in educational measurement and assessment analytics. She and her colleagues are two-time winners at the International eAssessment Awards, and she currently serves as a board member for the International e-Assessment Association.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, we explore how Indigenous governance and cultural frameworks can guide ethical technology use in education. Sheri Cecchetto introduces the Medicine Wheel as a holistic lens for approaching AI in K–12 classrooms—emphasizing reflection, relationship-building, and responsibility over speed and profit. Together, we unpack themes of digital sovereignty, environmental impact, and the importance of slowing down to make intentional choices about technology. This episode challenges educators to rethink AI literacy by centering Indigenous values and collective care.Sheri Cecchetto is Anishinaabe Kwe from Wabigoon Lake Ojibwe Nation and a field coordinator and sessional instructor in the School of Indigenous Relations at Laurentian University. Her work focuses on Indigenous social work, emergent learning, and decolonizing education. A passionate advocate for Indigenous governance and digital sovereignty, Sherri brings a unique perspective on how cultural teachings can inform ethical AI use. Beyond the classroom, she is an avid beadworker whose art reflects her deep connection to land and community.You can find Sheri on LinkedInLink to "Theory of Water" by Leanne Betasamosake SimpsonWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett sit down with Taryn Michel, an Indigenous educator, law scholar, and community leader, to explore the intersection of Indigenous knowledge systems and artificial intelligence in K–12 education. Taryn shares her journey as a professor in the Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program at Laurentian University and offers insights into Indigenous data sovereignty, ethical AI use, and the importance of relational learning. From the significance of consent and community co-design to the potential of AI tools like Google Lens in supporting cultural revitalization, this conversation invites educators to reimagine AI literacy through the lens of Indigenous values, including the seven grandfather teachings and the medicine wheel. Tune in to discover how AI can become a relational helper—not a replacement—when guided by intention, respect, and heart work.Taryn Michel is an Indigenous educator, legal scholar, and community leader from Michipicoten First Nation and the Martin Clan. She holds a Juris Doctor with an Indigenous specialization from the University of Ottawa and teaches in the School of Indigenous Relations at Laurentian University, where she also contributes to the sociology of law. Taryn’s work centers on revitalizing Anishinaabe law, promoting community wellness, and mentoring Indigenous students to reclaim space in academic and legal institutions. She serves as a band councilor and as president of the board for the N'Swakamok Indigenous Friendship Centre in Sudbury. Deeply committed to ethical, relational approaches to education and technology, Taryn brings a powerful voice to conversations about Indigenous data sovereignty, AI literacy, and the importance of co-designing educational tools with community.You can contact Taryn by email at [email protected] to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, we continue our conversation with Dr. Taima Moeke-Pickering, Director of the School of Indigenous Relations at Laurentian University. This episode explores how educators can ethically and respectfully integrate AI into K–12 classrooms while honoring Indigenous knowledge systems. Dr. Moeke-Pickering shares insights on land-based learning, trauma-informed pedagogy, and the importance of “showing up” with intention and care. This episode is a call to rethink how we teach with technology—grounded in values of sustainability, justice, and self-determination. Whether you're new to AI or deeply immersed, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance for educators navigating the AI twilight zone.Dr. Taima Moeke-Pickering is the Director of the School of Indigenous Relations at Laurentian University. With roots in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and tribal affiliations to Ngāti Pūkeko, Tūhoe, and Ngāti Awa, Dr. Moeke-Pickering brings a deeply relational and global Indigenous perspective to her work. Her research focuses on Indigenous methodologies, decolonization, women’s empowerment, and food sovereignty. She is known for integrating participatory approaches like PhotoVoice and for developing educational frameworks rooted in Indigenous knowledge and self-determination. A passionate educator and advocate, Dr. Taima Moeke-Pickering is committed to transforming education through heart work, cultural safety, and community-led innovation.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful opening to a four-part series, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett sit down with Dr. Taima Moeke-Pickering, Sheri Cecchetto, and Taryn Michel from Laurentian University’s School of Indigenous Relations to explore how artificial intelligence intersects with Indigenous law, land, and sovereignty. This conversation challenges listeners to rethink AI not as neutral, but as deeply tied to land, community, and responsibility. Through Indigenous teachings, legal frameworks, and personal stories, the guests offer pathways for ethical AI use in education—rooted in reciprocity, environmental justice, and the wisdom of seven generations. This episode is a call to educators to center Indigenous perspectives in shaping the future of technology.Our Guests are:Dr. Taima Moeke-Pickering Director & Professor, School of Indigenous Relations, Laurentian UniversitySheri Cecchetto Field Coordinator & Sessional Instructor, School of Indigenous Relations, Laurentian UniversityTaryn Michel Juris Doctor & Lecturer, School of Indigenous Relations, Laurentian UniversityLink: University of Guelph PresentationWant to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Katrina Gouett and Whitney McKinley welcome award-winning journalist and author Jenny Anderson to explore the urgent challenges of student disengagement and the transformative potential of generative AI in education. Drawing from her book The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better, Jenny shares insights into the four dynamic modes of learning—passenger, achiever, resistor, and explorer—and how educators can help students shift toward deeper engagement. Through real stories, audience questions, and practical strategies, this conversation offers a hopeful and actionable roadmap for fostering curiosity, agency, and meaningful learning in an AI-integrated world.Jenny Anderson is an award-winning journalist and author whose work focuses on student engagement and learning science. After spending a decade covering finance at the New York Times, she made a deliberate shift to what matters most: how young people learn. Her new book, The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better, addresses the youth mental health crisis and unprecedented rates of student disengagement. She continues to write for publications including The New York Times, TIME, and The Atlantic, and shares insights with thousands of education leaders through her Substack newsletter, How to Be Brave.You can also find Jenny on LinkedIn.Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, we sit down with Patricia Kosseim, Ontario’s Information and Privacy Commissioner, to explore the critical intersection of student privacy, educational technology, and artificial intelligence. From the challenges school boards face when negotiating with EdTech vendors to the ethical complexities of AI in classrooms, Commissioner Kosseim offers expert insights and practical guidance for educators. We discuss the importance of “privacy empathy,” the role of the IPC in safeguarding student data, and the resources available to help schools navigate this evolving digital landscape with confidence and care.Patricia Kosseim is the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario. She is a lawyer by profession and has extensive experience as a senior executive working in complex, inter-disciplinary environments, across public, private and health sectors. Through integration of legal practice, public policy and academic research, she has led large teams and major strategic initiatives to address ethical, legal and social implications of emerging technologies. She connects people and creative ideas to advance critical reflection, converge around common goals and work towards practical solutions. In March 2025, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, in recognition of her valuable contribution to Ontario and to Canada.Find further information at:ipc.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ipc.ontario/ A Guide to Privacy and Access to Information in Ontario SchoolsDigital Privacy Charter - 12 commitments supporting teachers and studentsYouth ambassador tool kitYouth advisory council Want to know more?You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: [email protected] and [email protected] or on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.