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April 07, 2025

The Good, the Bad, and the Political Evidence and Public Policy in Education

by InstructureCast

A man smiling while using a cell phone, appearing engaged and happy in a casual setting.

In this episode of EduCast 3000, co-hosts Melissa Loble and guest host Tracy Weeks engage with education leader Karl Rectanus to discuss the evolving landscape of EdTech, the impact of AI, and the importance of community collaboration in education. They explore personal learning moments, the role of policy in education, and the need for innovative technology solutions. Karl shares insights on building trust within the education sector and offers advice for future entrepreneurs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on student outcomes and the need for evidence-based decision-making in education.

Takeaways:

  • Personal learning moments can shape one's approach to education.
  • Political changes impact education at state and local levels.
  • Innovative technology solutions are emerging in various school districts.
  • AI presents both opportunities and challenges in education.
  • Building trust among stakeholders is crucial for effective collaboration.
  • Future entrepreneurs should focus on impact-centered organizations.
  • Educators must stay grounded amidst rapid changes in policy and technology.
  • Global perspectives on education reveal opportunities for leapfrogging traditional methods.
  • Community collaboration is essential for driving educational innovation.


Links:

  • EDSAFE AI: https://www.edsafeai.org/ 
  • SAFE Framework: https://www.edsafeai.org/safe 
  • EDSAFE AI Industry Council: https://www.edsafeai.org/industry-council 
  • Federal Investment as a percentage of public education expenditure
  • Education Research & Development (R&D)
  • Alliance for Learning Innovation: https://www.alicoalition.org/ 
  • AERDF: https://aerdf.org/ 
  • National AI Literacy Day: https://www.ailiteracyday.org/ 
  • South Carolina focus on evidence - INST presser - https://www.instructure.com/press-release/south-carolina-department-education-selects-learnplatform-instructure-provide-local 
  • Colorado AI Impact Taskforce: https://leg.colorado.gov/committees/artificial-intelligence-impact-task-force/2024-regular-session 
  • North Carolina listening sessions: https://www.dpi.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2025/02/24/state-superintendent-maurice-mo-green-host-public-listening-and-learning-sessions-across-state 
  • 4 Levels of Evidence:
  • US Department of Education’s Guidance: https://www.ed.gov/sites/ed/files/fund/grant/about/discretionary/2023-non-regulatory-guidance-evidence.pdf (see next to last page for table)
  • Results for America: https://results4america.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RFA_Redefining-Evidence-in-Education_5.30.24a.pdf (see page 9 )
  • Prince William County on Teacher Retention: https://x.com/TeachUpbeat/status/1896641989061579023 
  • SxSWedu More Steak than Sizzle - EdTech Insiders piece: https://edtechinsiders.substack.com/p/sxsw-edu-2025-brought-more-steak 

What is Educast 3000?

Ah, education…a world filled with mysterious marvels. From K12 to Higher Ed, educational change and innovation are everywhere. And with that comes a few lessons, too.

Each episode, EduCast3000 hosts, Melissa Loble and Ryan Lufkin, will break down the fourth wall and reflect on what’s happening in education – the good, the bad, and, in some cases, the just plain chaotic. This is the most transformative time in the history of education, so if you’re passionate about the educational system and want some timely and honest commentary on what’s happening in the industry, this is your show.

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