Vicki Davis, creator of the Cool Cat Teacher blog, shares how AI is reshaping the learning landscape, and how teachers can ensure it helps, rather than hinders, students.
I’d love to hear a little bit about your journey and how you started as the Cool Cat Teacher. How has it evolved over time?
I started teaching in 2002 and began blogging in 2005. While brainstorming blog names, I was inspired by my students; they called me “Miss Vicki” and suggested “cool cat teacher” since we were the Wildcats. I thought it fit, as Vicki Davis is a pretty common name.
In my first year blogging, I was nominated for a Top Teacher Blog award and later won. I also co-created a global collaborative project that was featured in Thomas Friedman’s “The World is Flat” and won the Online Learning award from ISTE in 2006. That early recognition helped me start speaking about teaching and tech, with educators finding my resources helpful. I’ve since traveled the world, including a recent talk in Saudi Arabia on digital health and wellness. I’m still a part-time teacher, teaching AP Computer Science Principles, introductory computer science, and a computer apps class. I cover coding in Python, marketing, and even film, preparing students with essential modern skills. My favorite thing is interviewing other educators. Since 2017, I’ve hosted the 10 Minute Teacher Podcast, with over 7 million downloads and 860 episodes. I love connecting with other teachers and sharing knowledge.
What are some of the biggest challenges teachers are currently facing when it comes to integrating technology into classrooms?
In 2024, a major focus is integrating AI effectively in classrooms since students are using it at home. Studies show AI can improve homework performance but may hinder test results. For instance, apps like Photomath became popular during the pandemic, allowing students to solve math problems without truly learning the concepts. Many now struggle, unsure of how to improve without relying on AI.
AI can be helpful for tasks like language learning and programming. However, teachers must guide students in using it correctly. AI-generated lesson plans, for example, need the teacher’s expertise to be truly effective. Students also recognize the dilemma: They want good grades but feel they miss out on learning when relying too heavily on AI. I tested some AI feedback tools that can serve as “pre-graders” for students’ work, allowing them to revise before submitting. However, students must actively engage with the feedback instead of letting AI make corrections for them.
A key point is to not anthropomorphize AI; it’s a tool, not a human. Trusting AI too fully can be misleading since it relies on human-trained data. I teach students to customize GPT models to get specific feedback, helping them understand AI’s proper role. The goal remains teaching core skills like problem-solving and organization, with AI as a supportive, not central, tool.
What are some tools or platforms that have helped you improve classroom management and student engagement?
After 23 years of teaching, classroom management, for me, is now more about integrating tools like Nearpod and Quizizz to check student understanding frequently. I use formative assessments every 8 minutes to ensure everyone follows along, especially for complex topics like binary numbers. This approach helps identify students who may struggle silently.
Project-based learning also deepens understanding. My students create their own apps, which requires them to analyze, create, and link knowledge from different subjects. They learn valuable skills like user research, teamwork, and problem-solving. For instance, they design apps through a Shark Tank-style project, learning both technology and collaboration.
Today’s teaching focus is not just knowledge but higher-order skills, as AI can handle basic tasks. Students need to develop creativity, emotional intelligence, and teamwork, which are essential for the real world. In my tech classes, I even discuss the impact of narcissism on teams, helping students understand the importance of valuing others. I also project lessons directly onto students’ screens, as many don’t wear glasses and miss out on board content. Providing this accessibility and fostering engagement through real-world connections helps students see relevance in what they’re learning. AI supports this by helping adapt lessons to students’ interests, making learning more engaging and purposeful.
Other than AI, are there any other emerging education technology trends that you believe are reshaping the future of education?
In “The Future is Faster Than You Think,” Peter Diamandis notes that AI accelerates change, especially in AR and VR. My students already create in 3D environments, which is crucial for modern tech skills. Video creation is also vital; students need to learn storyboarding and production, as video is now as important as essays for communication.
I’m teaching “transliteracy,” helping students manage notes across apps like OneNote and Evernote to build personal knowledge bases. This skill is critical for future success, allowing students to capture and organize their learning, especially in an age of information overload. AI can support learning, but I require students to document its use to promote accountability. Good note-taking helps prevent knowledge from disappearing, something I want them to understand through tools like Evernote, which I’ve used for years.
Finally, this generation is incredibly lonely, and tech must not replace human connection. Students need real interactions, not just digital experiences. We should encourage balance — technology should help us spend more time with other humans.
