AI Teachers, Driverless Taxis and Tech Awards: What Does the Future Really Look Like?
Season 2 • Episode 1
32 min
Published September 2024
AI Education • Driverless Cars • Technology Careers
Episode summary
Season 2 begins with a celebration of recent achievements, including Rebecca Franks being shortlisted for the WeAreTechWomen TechWomen100 Awards, the launch of new computing resources, an Innovate UK grant award and Beverly Clarke MBE preparing for her investiture. Rebecca and Beverly reflect on why recognising achievements is important, not only for personal confidence but also for creating new opportunities and inspiring others.
The conversation then explores one of the biggest stories in education: AI-powered classrooms. They discuss the role of artificial intelligence in teaching, questioning whether AI should replace teachers or instead become a tool that enhances learning. They consider curriculum quality, wellbeing, social interaction, accessibility and the importance of carefully evaluating new educational technologies before adopting them at scale.
The episode also covers self-driving taxis, drone technology, Technology Books for Children, social media algorithms and the growing influence of online platforms on the information we consume. Rebecca and Beverly finish by sharing practical advice for entrepreneurs, encouraging listeners to persevere, embrace change and celebrate progress along the way.
Journey insights
- Celebrate your achievements, as recognition can open doors to new opportunities.
- AI should enhance education, not replace the relationships that make learning meaningful.
- New technologies should always be tested with diverse groups of users before widespread adoption.
- Social media algorithms shape what we see, making critical thinking more important than ever.
- Success in business often comes from perseverance, adaptability and a willingness to keep learning.
Is this episode for you?
This episode is for you if you are:
- Educators interested in artificial intelligence and the future of learning.
- Entrepreneurs building innovative technology products.
- Parents curious about AI in schools and digital wellbeing.
- Technology professionals interested in autonomous vehicles and emerging technologies.
- Anyone wanting practical advice on career development and resilience.
About this episode
Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE launch Season 2 by exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming education, celebrating recent career milestones and discussing emerging technologies including driverless taxis, drones and immersive learning. They also examine the influence of social media algorithms and share practical advice for anyone building a career or business in technology.
About the speakers
Rebecca Franks
Rebecca Franks is an award-winning technology educator, entrepreneur and Co-founder of Flip Computing. With more than 20 years of experience in education, she has authored national computing curricula, developed AI education programmes and speaks internationally about technology, inclusion and innovation. Rebecca is passionate about helping people build confidence, develop digital skills and discover rewarding careers in technology.
Beverly Clarke MBE
Beverly Clarke MBE is a technology leader, educator, coach and author with over 20 years of experience in education and digital skills. She is the author of the Ava and Chip children’s book series and is passionate about digital inclusion, artificial intelligence, coaching and empowering people to achieve their potential. Beverly was awarded an MBE for services to computing and digital education.
Together, Rebecca and Beverly share honest conversations about technology, careers, entrepreneurship and the lessons they are learning along the way.
Resources mentioned
- WeAreTechWomen TechWomen100 Awards
- Innovate UK Creative Catalyst
- Technology Books for Children
- Khan Academy
- AI-powered classrooms
- Self-driving taxis (Waymo)
- BlueSky
- X (formerly Twitter)
- Sky News
- Driverless vehicle technology
