Curiosity Is the Entry Point: Matt Karabinos on AI in Education
Download MP3Matt Karabinos joins Jethro Jones to introduce Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk and explore how curiosity, teacher experience, and AI as a thought partner can help educators reimagine teaching and learning.
In this introductory episode, Jethro welcomes Matt Karabinos as the new host of Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk — formerly A Vision for Learning. Matt shares his background as a recently-practicing classroom teacher and his current work helping schools, educators, students, and administrators make sense of AI in education.
Together, Jethro and Matt explore what makes AI different from past edtech initiatives: it is not just another tool, search engine, or “vending machine.” Used well, AI can become a thought partner that helps teachers reimagine lessons, create new learning experiences, and solve real classroom problems without starting from scratch.
Matt also introduces the mindset behind his CURVE framework, beginning with curiosity. For educators wondering where to start, this conversation offers a simple invitation: be curious, try something small, and let AI help you see new possibilities for teaching and learning.
In this episode
- Matt Karabinos’ move from the classroom into regional AI and emerging technology support
- Why AI in education needs to stay grounded in real teacher experience
- The future direction of Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk
- Moving beyond AI as a search engine or “vending machine”
- How teachers can use AI to reimagine lessons instead of replacing their own expertise
- A practical classroom example: turning a tired morning lesson into an active number-line activity
- Why educators do not need to relearn everything or become technical experts
- Curiosity as the real entry point for using AI well
- Matt’s CURVE framework and the mindset teachers need in this moment
- How sharing your learning publicly can become a professional portfolio
Key takeaways
- AI is most powerful when used as a thought partner, not just a content generator.
- Teachers do not have to throw out what already works; AI can help them adjust, remix, and improve from where they already are.
- The best starting point is not technical skill — it is curiosity.
- Asking AI for multiple options often produces better results than asking for one perfect answer.
- Educators can enter the AI conversation from any level of experience.
- Sharing what you are learning can open doors and demonstrate expertise in ways a résumé alone cannot.
Guest
Matt Karabinos is a former classroom teacher and current emerging technology and project specialist. He supports schools and educators as they navigate AI policy, classroom practice, student use, professional learning, and the broader shifts AI is bringing to education. He also runs student programs and regional competitions, including FIRST LEGO League, Scholastic Quiz League, Reading Competition, and Math24.
Find Matt on TikTok: @MrKAllDay
Video
Watch or download the video version on Descript: https://share.descript.com/view/sKTaiMpOmI2
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Learn more about Renaissance:
Learn more about Renaissance:
As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.
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