Closing the AI Literacy Gap: A Conversation with Alex Kotran artwork
AmpED to 11

Closing the AI Literacy Gap: A Conversation with Alex Kotran

  • S1E6
  • 56:08
  • March 3rd 2025

In this episode of AmpED to 11, hosts Brett Roer and Rebecca Bultsma sit down with Alex Kotran, CEO & Co-founder of the AI Education Project (AIEDU), to tackle a pressing issue: the AI literacy gap in schools and what it means for the next generation.

Most students graduate without a basic understanding of how AI works—even as it influences job markets, decision-making, and daily life. Meanwhile, many teachers feel unprepared to integrate AI into the classroom, and underserved communities risk being left even further behind.

Alex shares how his journey—starting in political organizing and later transitioning into AI policy and governance—led him to an alarming realization: schools weren’t teaching students about AI at all. His solution? AIEDU, an initiative focused on making AI literacy accessible to all students—not just the privileged few.

Key Takeaways:

🚨 Why AI literacy isn’t just about coding—it’s about critical thinking, ethics, and understanding AI’s role in society.

🚨 The dangers of leaving AI education out of the curriculum—especially for underserved communities.

🚨 How schools can start integrating AI without massive budgets or advanced tech resources.

🚨 The real-world skills students actually need to succeed in an AI-driven world.

Rebecca’s AI Tip of the Week:

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This conversation is a wake-up call for educators, policymakers, and business leaders—if AI is shaping the future, we need to ensure every student has the tools to navigate it.

🎧 Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the future of AI education—and what we need to do before it’s too late.

AmpED to 11

Innovating Education with AI

Welcome to AmpED to 11, the podcast where AI, education, and technology collide to reshape the future of learning. Hosted by EdTech experts Brett Roer and Rebecca Bultsma, AmpED to 11 brings you the latest insights, trends, and strategies in AI-powered education.

We believe that education should never settle for "good enough." Each episode is packed with cutting-edge news, expert interviews, and actionable insights that will keep you ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of EdTech. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or EdTech professional, AmpED to 11 equips you with the tools to integrate AI into education and drive innovation.

What You Can Expect:

  • AI in Education: Stay up to date with the latest AI tools and trends that are transforming classrooms and educational technology.
  • Expert Interviews: Brett leads in-depth conversations with top educators, innovators, and policymakers to explore how AI is shaping the future of learning.
  • Tech Updates: Rebecca delivers the latest news and updates in AI and education, providing insights into new developments and practical applications for educators.
  • Actionable Tips: Get real-world strategies and tools that you can immediately apply in your classroom or EdTech business to enhance learning outcomes.

Why Listen? In each episode of AmpED to 11, you’ll:

  • Learn how AI is revolutionizing education and how you can stay ahead.
  • Gain practical insights from leaders in education and technology.
  • Discover AI-powered tools and strategies to implement in your classroom or EdTech business.

Meet the Hosts: Brett Roer is an EdTech visionary who excels at uncovering powerful stories in education and building connections with innovators. He’s committed to bridging the gap between technology and educators to enhance learning.

Rebecca Bultsma is an educator and tech strategist with a talent for breaking down complex ideas into actionable insights. She helps educators integrate the latest technology and AI into their teaching, improving engagement and outcomes.

Who Should Listen? AmpED to 11 is perfect for:

  • Educators and administrators looking to integrate AI into their teaching.
  • EdTech professionals seeking the latest industry trends and tools.
  • Tech enthusiasts interested in the role of AI in the future of education.

Join Brett and Rebecca as they turn the dial on education and AI, bringing you inspiring conversations and actionable advice to drive innovation in the classroom. Stay informed, stay inspired, and stay ahead of the curve with AmpED to 11.