The Messy Middle: Navigating Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom
From Deep Learning Dialogues by Katrina Gouett and Whitney McKinley
June 11, 2026 · 45 min · Season 3 · Episode 27
About this episode
The episode discusses the impact of artificial intelligence in education, emphasizing the need for AI literacy from a young age.
In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues , explore the "messy middle" of artificial intelligence in education with guest Jessica Rizk, PhD, OCT. Moving past the polarizing narratives of absolute tech adoption versus complete avoidance, the conversation examines how generative AI is actively reshaping the classroom from the ground up. Rizk highlights the urgent need for foundational AI literacy beginning in kindergarten, illustrating through personal anecdotes how young children form implicit relationships with technology long before formal instructions begin. Together, they explore the critical shift from viewing AI merely as a baseline productivity tool to utilizing it as a human springboard for deeper critical thinking, assessment restructuring, and meaningful conversation. The discussion culminates in a powerful look at public policy, evaluating Canada’s current ranking in AI literacy training and addressing the crucial systemic tension between maintaining agile institutional structures and empowering educators with a coherent, standardized, and supportive framework. Dr. Jessica Rizk is a senior research associate at Signal 49 Research, a pan-Canadian nonprofit…
People in this episode
Hosts: Katrina Gouett, Whitney McKinley
Guest: Jessica Rizk
Topics covered
- artificial intelligence
- education
- AI literacy
- classroom technology
- public policy
Keywords
- artificial intelligence
- education
- AI literacy
- classroom
- technology
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Signal 49 Research, Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Waterloo
Places: Canada
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