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 applied research organization dedicated to tackling some of Canada’s largest systemic challenges. Deeply rooted in the education sector, she serves as an instructor at both Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Waterloo, and previously a former K–8 elementary classroom teacher. Jessica is a prominent voice in educational policy and tech literacy, authoring the impactful January op-ed, \"Canada’s AI Strategy is missing kids,\" which champions the creation of a national, comprehensive AI education strategy. Melding her extensive academic research with her firsthand experience as an educator and a parent, she provides a uniquely well-rounded perspective on what it truly means to build sustainable human agency and foundational skills in an AI-driven world. You can follow and learn more about Jessica on LinkedIn.
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