Week in Edtech 8/26/26: Federal EdTech Evidence Guidance, AI Backlash in Schools, OpenAI’s 55 District Deals, Harvard AI Faculty Avatars, MIT Rethinks Learning, and More! Feat. Carl Madi of Stepful & Manny Smith of EdVisorly
Episode Description
Join hosts Ben Kornell and Alex Sarlin as they break down new federal guidance on edtech evidence and efficacy, the growing backlash against AI and big tech in schools, Harvard's AI faculty avatars, and MIT's evolving approach to teaching and learning in the AI era.
✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:04:47] U.S. Department of Education issues edtech evidence guidance
[00:14:21] AI tutoring research highlights mastery-based learning
[00:16:36] The growing backlash against AI and big tech in schools
[00:19:02] OpenAI announces 55 school district partnerships
[00:20:50] Should big tech be in schools?
[00:29:57] Harvard launches AI faculty avatars for student practice
[00:35:41] MIT rethinks teaching and assessment for the AI era
Plus, special guests:
[00:39:42] Carl Madi, Co-founder and CEO of Stepful, on expanding healthcare career pathways through employer partnerships, AI-powered assessment, and scalable workforce training
[00:56:46] Manny Smith, Founder and CEO of EdVisorly, on modernizing college admissions and transfer through AI-powered enrollment operations and more transparent pathways for students
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Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
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