Searching for Meaning: How Science Teachers Can Inspire Deeper Thinking
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Release Date: 06/18/2025
Is Your Classroom Ai Usage Breaking the Law? Legal and Ethical Insights for Educators and Students
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Intellectual property Lawyer Amanda Conley has an interesting perspective on Ai and all the legal considerations an educator needs to be aware of. In this episode, we dive into the transformative role of AI in education, exploring its potential to revolutionize learning environments. Join us as we discuss the latest trends from major ed-tech conferences, the legal intricacies of AI-generated content, and the ethical considerations educators face. With insights from industry experts, we uncover how AI is reshaping the classroom, from creating personalized learning experiences to addressing...
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How Global Experiences Inspire Local Science Learning
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Fulbright teacher and National Geographic educator, Lisa Werner shares her transformative experiences as a Fulbright Teacher for Global Classrooms Fellow in Senegal, highlighting the stark differences and surprising similarities in educational practices. She discusses the importance of community, connection, and the role of technology in education, while also exploring the intersection of music and science. Lisa reflects on her adventures as a NOAA Teacher at Sea, emphasizing the responsibility educators have to inspire their students through authentic experiences and curiosity-driven...
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Searching for Meaning: How Science Teachers Can Inspire Deeper Thinking
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
MIT Professor Alan Lightman discusses his PBS documentary series 'Searching Our Quest for Meaning in the Age of Science,' which explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and spirituality. He emphasizes the importance of integrating humanities into science education to foster critical thinking and reflection among students. Lightman shares insights on the challenges of engaging modern students, the concept of spiritual materialism, and the emotional power of music and art. He also highlights the restorative effects of nature on the human spirit and the need for a deeper connection with...
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Global Water, Local Impact: Inspiring Young Scientists to Make a Difference
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Dr. Scott Miller from Charity Water joins us and discusses the organization's mission to provide clean and safe drinking water to everyone globally. He highlights the staggering statistics of the water crisis, the technological and financial challenges involved, and the innovative solutions being implemented. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of education and community engagement in addressing these issues, as well as the operational scale of Charity Water's efforts. In this conversation, Scott Miller and Dave discuss the challenges and innovative solutions in water management,...
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Teaching STEM with National Geographic: Wildlife, Conservation, and the Power of Pictures
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
National Geographic Explorer Gabby Salazar shares her journey into photography, starting at a young age and evolving with technology. She discusses the impact of digital advancements on wildlife photography, emphasizing the ethical considerations and authenticity in her work. Gabby highlights the importance of field experiences and citizen science in understanding nature, while also sharing her passion for conservation and future expeditions. In this conversation, Gabby Salazar discusses her work in wildlife conservation and education, focusing on the importance of culturally responsive...
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How Katy ISD is Preparing Students for a Future We Can't Predict
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Tina Hovance, from one of the largest school districts in Texas (Katy ISD), discusses her role as the secondary science coordinator and the implementation of new Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). She emphasizes the importance of planning, mentorship, and community support for new teachers, especially in a diverse district with a large emergent bilingual population. The conversation also touches on the potential of AI in education and the need for policies to guide its use. In this conversation, Dave and Tina Hovance discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by...
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Teaching in the Age of AI: Risks, Realities & Reimagining Learning with Dr. Roman Yampolskiy
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Dr. Yampolskiy is a Latvian computer scientist who has warned of the possibility of existential risk from advanced artificial intelligence, and has advocated research into "boxing" artificial intelligence. Dr. Yampolskiy is mostly known for his work on AI safety, cybersecurity and his many published books In this conversation, Professor Roman V. Yampolskiy discusses the critical aspects of AI safety, the unpredictability of AI responses, and the implications of AI in education and the workforce. He emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and risks,...
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When Science Centers and Classrooms Collide: Innovation in Practice
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
The team from the Science Center of Iowa joins us to discuss various topics ranging from the impact of weather on museum operations to the fascinating world of pterosaurs and the innovative use of AI in education. They explore the ethical implications of AI, the importance of intellectual property in AI-generated content, and the role of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills. The conversation emphasizes the need for human interaction with AI tools and the importance of teaching students how to effectively communicate their ideas to these technologies. In this...
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Can AI Replace Teachers? The Human Side of Education's Future
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
TeachAi expert explains why teachers will still matter Veronica discuss the evolving role of AI in education, the challenges educators face in adapting to rapid technological changes, and the importance of core skills for teachers. They explore concerns about over-reliance on AI tools, the implications of AI in grading and IEPs, and the necessity of human feedback in the learning process. The discussion also touches on cultural nuances, ethics in AI, and the significance of maintaining human interaction in educational settings. Veronica and Dave explore the intersection of...
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PBS’ Miles O’Brien on Aviation Safety: Stats, Perception & Reality
ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged
Is it safe to fly? Recent incidents, media influence, and systemic concerns. Miles O'Brien discusses the current state of aviation safety, reflecting on recent incidents and the underlying statistics. They explore the roles of various organizations like the FAA and NTSB in ensuring safety, the importance of timely investigations, and the normalization of deviance in aviation practices. The discussion also touches on the media's influence on public perception of aviation safety and the complexities of the aviation system, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive measures to...
info_outlineMIT Professor Alan Lightman discusses his PBS documentary series 'Searching Our Quest for Meaning in the Age of Science,' which explores the intersection of science, philosophy, and spirituality. He emphasizes the importance of integrating humanities into science education to foster critical thinking and reflection among students. Lightman shares insights on the challenges of engaging modern students, the concept of spiritual materialism, and the emotional power of music and art. He also highlights the restorative effects of nature on the human spirit and the need for a deeper connection with the cosmos. In this conversation, Alan Lightman and Dave discuss the intricate relationship between nature, science, and technology, particularly focusing on the ethical implications of AI development. They explore the kinship between humans and nature, the exponential growth of technology, and the philosophical dilemmas surrounding knowledge and mystery in science. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to technological advancement, considering both its potential benefits and risks.
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ABOUT ALAN
Alan Lightman is an American physicist and writer. PhD in physics, Caltech. He has served on the faculties of Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and was the first person at MIT to receive dual faculty appointments in science and in the humanities. He is currently professor of the practice of the humanities at MIT. Lightman is the recipient of six honorary doctoral degrees. He is the author of numerous books, both nonfiction and fiction, including Einstein’s Dreams, an international bestseller, and The Diagnosis, a finalist for the National Book Award in fiction. His essays concern the intersection of science, culture, philosophy, and theology. His most recent nonfiction books are Searching for Stars on an Island in Maine, The Transcendental Brain: Spirituality in the Age of Science, and The Miraculous from the Material. Lightman is the host of the public television series “SEARCHING: Our Quest for Meaning in the Age of Science,” based on his books. In 2005, Lightman founded Harpswell, a nonprofit organization devoted to empowering young women leaders in Southeast Asia. In August 2023, Lightman was appointed a member of the United Nation’s Scientific Advisory Board, reporting directly to the Secretary General.