Beyond The Algorithm - The Podcast

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Let’s be honest! AI can be exciting, confusing, and a bit overwhelming all at once. Beyond the Algorithm is a podcast for people who want to make sense of it without the drama. Hosted by Dawn Taylor, international speaker and AI Pedagogue, the podcast brings together educators, leaders, policymakers, and others working with AI to talk openly about what it’s really doing in education — and how we can use it well. It’s about solving real problems, improving the quality of teaching and learning, and keeping human thinking firmly in the driving seat. No tech hype. No doom stories. Just real conversations about AI, education, and what comes next.

Episodes

  1. Aug 10

    Beyond the Quiz: Kahoot, AI and Meaningful Engagement with Jon from Kahoot

    Kahoot has been a classroom favourite for many years—but the platform has evolved far beyond the familiar live quiz. In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn speaks with Jon, Growth Director for the UK and Ireland at Kahoot, about the changing role of educational technology and how Kahoot is developing to support teaching and learning. Together, they explore how AI can help teachers create purposeful learning experiences, use assessment data to identify gaps in understanding and provide students with timely opportunities to revisit their learning. They also consider what meaningful engagement really looks like—and why excitement and participation do not necessarily mean that learning is taking place. The conversation covers: How Kahoot has developed beyond quizzes and games The role of AI in creating purposeful learning experiences Using data to understand student progress over time Formative assessment, feedback and targeted intervention The difference between participation and meaningful engagement Why schools should begin with the educational problem, not the technology The importance of involving teachers and students in EdTech decisions Three practical suggestions for educators beginning to explore AI Jon also shares why schools should resist chasing every new technological trend and instead choose tools that respond to the needs of their own learning communities. A practical and thoughtful conversation about AI, EdTech and keeping learning at the centre of classroom innovation.

  2. Aug 10

    Inside the EdTech Exchange: Supporting Founders and Strengthening the Education Sector with Sam Marsh

    In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor is joined by Sam Marsh, Head of Events at the British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA). Sam explains how BESA represents and supports the UK education-supplies industry and introduces the EdTech Exchange: a free-to-join community designed to connect EdTech founders, encourage peer learning and reduce the isolation that can come with building and leading a business. Together, Dawn and Sam explore five important shifts currently shaping the EdTech market: The move from AI hype towards accountability and evidence The growing importance of trust and transparency The need to solve genuine educational problems The difficult decisions founders face around investment, teams and product priorities The effect of school budgets, limited capacity and increased procurement scrutiny Sam also shares what founders can access through the EdTech Exchange, including online forums, practical workshops, regional ambassador support, industry insights and founder supper clubs. Whether you are starting an EdTech business, developing an established organisation or working within education, this conversation offers valuable insight into the changing market and the importance of collaboration between suppliers and schools. Find out more and get involved: BESA website: We champion the UK’s trusted, quality educational suppliers - BESA EdTech Exchange: https://www.besa.org.uk/join-us/as-part-of-edtech-exchange/ Join the LinkedIn community: EdTech Exchange - A BESA Initiative Subscribe to the EdTech Exchange publication: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7483905448077672448 Upcoming events and workshops: Events - BESA Connect with Samantha Marsh: Samantha Marsh | LinkedIn

  3. Jun 28

    The Future of AI in Education: AI Agents, Vibe Coding & Local AI | Isaac Pattis

    Artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly. The next generation of AI isn't just about chatbots—it's about AI agents, local models, browser-based AI, and new ways of working, learning and creating. In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor is joined by Isaac Pattis, AI Incubation Manager at Oxford University Press, to explore where AI is heading next and what these developments mean for education, innovation and the future of work. In this episode we discuss: AI Agents and Agentic AI Vibe Coding vs Agentic Engineering Running AI locally in browsers and on personal devices Privacy-first AI and why it matters The future of AI in education AI literacy and AI metaliteracy Why cognitive challenge still matters in an AI-enabled world Lessons from Khan Academy and Duolingo How educators can embrace AI without losing authentic learning Whether you're an educator, school leader, researcher, developer or simply interested in the future of AI, this conversation offers practical insights into where the technology is heading and how we can ensure humans remain at the centre of learning. If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe and Share.

  4. Jun 14

    The Future of Education, AI, Assessment and Vibe Coding with Simon Balderson

    What happens when Artificial Intelligence can write essays, generate code, provide feedback, and create learning resources in seconds? In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor is joined by Simon Balderson, Director of Innovation at Wishford Education, to explore the future of education in a world increasingly shaped by AI. Together they discuss the impact of AI on teaching, learning, assessment, creativity, and the skills young people will need to thrive in the future. Simon shares insights from the AIxEI Conference, explores the rise of "vibe coding", and explains why creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence may become more valuable than ever. The conversation also examines the future of assessment, the challenges facing exam boards, and how schools can begin making learning visible today rather than waiting for policy to catch up. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, parent, researcher, or simply interested in the future of learning, this episode offers practical insights and thought-provoking ideas about where education is heading next.

  5. Jun 5

    AI, Education & Industry: Building the Future Together | Martyn Collins, Brilliant Festival Director

    In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor speaks with Martyn Collins, Festival Director of the rapidly growing Brilliant Festival, about the future of education, EdTech, AI, and industry collaboration. Together, they explore why schools, educators, technology providers, and employers must work more closely to prepare young people for the future world of work — and why traditional education conferences and EdTech events are no longer enough. Martyn shares the vision behind Brilliant Festival, why Liverpool and the North West are central to that vision, and how Brilliant is creating a unique space where education, industry, and technology genuinely connect. The conversation also dives into: AI and the future of teaching and learning Why industry partnerships matter more than ever The changing role of EdTech procurement in schools Creativity, innovation, and STEAM education Why teachers need hands-on experiences with technology The future skills gap and curriculum evolution How AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming workflows and creativity A practical, thought-provoking, and inspiring conversation about building meaningful connections between schools, industry, and innovation. 📍 Exhibition Centre Liverpool 📅 November 10, 2026 🌐 brilliantfestival.com

  6. May 30

    AI, Sport, Trust & the Future of Learning with Professor Andy Miah

    In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor is joined by Andy Miah — Chair in Science Communication and Future Media at University of Salford — for a wide-ranging conversation exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on sport, media, education, trust, and the future of learning. As the world prepares for a major summer of global sport, Andy explains how AI is already reshaping sports broadcasting, audience engagement, and digital media experiences. From AI-generated content and automated highlights to drone footage controversies and viral misinformation, the discussion examines how technology is changing the way people consume and interact with sport. The conversation then turns to AI-generated influencers, authenticity, and the growing challenge of determining what can be trusted online. Drawing on his recent work investigating AI fitness influencers for the BBC, Andy explores why media literacy and AI literacy are rapidly becoming essential skills for modern life. Together, Dawn and Andy discuss: Why society may be underestimating the scale of AI-driven change How AI is transforming sport, media, and communication The rise of AI-generated influencers and digital identities Why trust and authenticity are becoming increasingly complex The role of schools and universities in developing AI literacy How curriculum and assessment may need to evolve Why metacognition and cognitive regulation matter more than ever The risks of AI bypassing cognitive struggle rather than supporting learning How educators can preserve authentic evidence of learning in the age of AI A major focus of the episode is vibe coding — using natural language prompts to create software and digital tools without traditional programming expertise. Andy explains how AI-powered development platforms are democratising creation and enabling entirely new opportunities for non-technical innovators. The episode also explores Dawn's work on AI meta-literacy, including how schools can develop a shared language between learners and AI systems that supports understanding, strengthens learner agency, and keeps human thinking at the centre of the learning process. This is a thought-provoking discussion about the opportunities, tensions, and responsibilities emerging as AI becomes embedded in everyday life. Listen if you're interested in AI, education, sport, media, innovation, digital culture, and what it means to remain human in an increasingly AI-mediated world.

  7. May 24

    AI Bias, Pedagogy and the Future of Learning with Victoria Hedlund

    In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn is joined by Victoria Hedlund, also known as The AI Bias Girl, for a powerful conversation about bias, fairness and the growing role of generative AI in education. Victoria shares how her background in physics, teaching, research and STEM education led her to investigate how AI systems respond differently to learners based on gender and other assumptions. Together, Dawn and Victoria explore why AI bias is not just a technical issue, but a pedagogical, ethical and safeguarding concern for schools. The conversation examines what happens when AI tools begin to act like tutors, how personalised outputs may reinforce stereotypes, and why children’s self-concept, confidence and future aspirations could be shaped by the answers AI gives them. Together, they explore: How AI bias can appear in explanations, stories, metaphors and images • Why generative AI should be held to higher standards in educational contexts • The risks of AI tutors reinforcing stereotypes or lowering expectations • Why bias in AI may be harder to spot than bias in human teaching • How personalised learning can create unequal learning pathways • The importance of teacher judgement, oversight and accountability • Why bias awareness should become part of AI literacy • Victoria’s research into gender bias in science explanations • Her work on AI bias, fairness and the Institute of AI Education This episode is an important and timely discussion about what schools, teachers, EdTech companies and policymakers need to consider before AI becomes deeply embedded in teaching and learning.

  8. May 24

    The Future of EdTech: AI, Innovation and Literacy with ExplAinED

    The Future of EdTech: AI, Innovation and Literacy Guests: Shaun Langevin, Renee Langevin & Michael Berry (Hosts of the ExplAInED Podcast) In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor is joined by the hosts of the Explained podcast: Shaun Langevin, Renee Langevin, and Michael Berry. Together, they explore the evolving relationship between AI, EdTech, digital literacy, curriculum design, and the future of learning. The conversation dives into the realities schools are facing as AI rapidly reshapes teaching and learning. From concerns about screen time and AI literacy to the importance of bias, reliability, and responsible implementation, this episode offers a thoughtful and honest discussion about what educators need to understand now. The team also shares insights into: The origins of the Explained podcast AI adoption in schools across the United States The growing backlash against EdTech and screen time Why educational technology and passive screen use are not the same thing AI literacy, digital citizenship, and critical thinking How schools can begin using AI in low-friction, practical ways The importance of teacher confidence and professional learning Bias, reliability, and data privacy in generative AI NotebookLM, Gemini Gems, and practical classroom applications Supporting students to remain active thinkers in an AI-mediated world Vermont’s AI Symposium and student-led innovation projects Why schools must start talking openly with students about AI Key Discussion Themes EdTech vs Screen Time The group discusses growing concerns in parts of the United States around educational technology and increasing attempts to limit student screen time. The conversation highlights the danger of conflating passive screen consumption with purposeful educational technology use. AI Literacy and Curriculum The discussion explores the challenge schools face in developing meaningful AI literacy approaches while educators themselves are still learning alongside students. Responsible AI Use The episode examines: Bias and reliability in AI systems Data privacy considerations The importance of critical thinking The need for verification and human judgement Practical AI Integration The guests share low-friction ways educators can begin engaging with AI safely and meaningfully, including: AI-supported lesson reflection Bias checking NotebookLM workflows Productivity and efficiency tools AI-supported professional learning

  9. May 15

    AI, Algorithmic Influence, and Learning in a Digital World | with Laura Knight

    AI is changing how knowledge is accessed, shaped, and trusted—but it isn’t neutral. In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn speaks with Laura Knight—former teacher, strategist, and advisor—about the growing influence of algorithms on learning, behaviour, and decision-making. They explore what sits beneath the surface of AI systems, why they don’t “find truth,” and how attention, data, and engagement are shaping the digital environments young people are growing up in. This conversation moves beyond hype and fear to focus on what actually matters: understanding how AI works recognising its influence and building the capacity to question it From social media to generative AI, this episode challenges the idea that technology is simply a tool—and argues that without deliberate teaching, it can quietly shape thinking in ways we don’t always see. Guest Laura Knight is a former teacher with over 20 years’ experience in UK education. She now works across schools, universities, governments, and EdTech organisations as a strategist, speaker, and advisor, focusing on the effective and ethical use of AI and digital technology.

  10. May 2

    AI, Assessment and the Future of Learning with Al Kingsley MBE

    In this episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn speaks with Al Kingsley MBE about AI, education, assessment, digital strategy, and the future of learning. Together, they explore why AI should not be seen as a shortcut or threat, but as part of a wider conversation about curriculum, assessment, equity, skills, and human connection. Al shares his perspective on government policy, exam reform, digital access, neurodiversity, data, bias, and the importance of co-production in shaping the future of education. This conversation is about moving beyond hype and fear, and focusing instead on how AI can support learning, strengthen agency, and help education adapt to a changing world.   Key themes include: AI in schools Assessment and exam reform Digital equity and access Human skills and future employability Neurodiversity and inclusion AI bias and data Curriculum change The Institute of AI Education

  11. Apr 8

    From Tools to Thinking: The Real Work of AI Literacy

    What does it actually mean to be “AI literate”—and are we teaching the right things? In this first episode of Beyond the Algorithm, Dawn Taylor is joined by Ben Garside, Senior Learning Manager for AI Literacy at the Raspberry Pi Foundation, to explore one of the most urgent questions in education today. Together, they unpack: What AI literacy really is (and what it isn’t) Why understanding AI matters more than simply using it The risks of cognitive offloading—and how to respond How AI is already reshaping teaching, learning, and assessment The global challenge of access, equity, and representation in AI systems Ben shares insights from the Raspberry Pi Foundation’s Experience AI programme, now reaching over 2.3 million students worldwide, and discusses how research, pedagogy, and real classroom practice are being brought together to build meaningful AI education. This episode goes beyond tools and into thinking—exploring how we prepare students not just to use AI, but to understand it, question it, and engage with it critically. Key themes: AI literacy | Education | Pedagogy | Assessment | Equity | Critical thinking Music Credit: Music: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: CXJUKFZMNR3CYI4R Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

  12. Trailer

    Beyond the Algorithm – Official Podcast Trailer

    Beyond the Algorithm is a podcast made by humans, for humans. In this series, we speak with educators, school leaders, edtech teams, and others working with AI day to day — to understand what’s really happening in education. We explore how AI is showing up in classrooms, leadership, systems, and assessment, how it’s evolving, and what that means for teaching and learning now and in the future. This podcast isn’t about hype, fear, or pushing an agenda. It’s about clarity. Each episode is designed to help you make sense of the changes happening around AI — and to think more carefully about what comes next for education, for learners, and for the people at the heart of it all. Join us as we go beyond the algorithm.

Trailer

About

Let’s be honest! AI can be exciting, confusing, and a bit overwhelming all at once. Beyond the Algorithm is a podcast for people who want to make sense of it without the drama. Hosted by Dawn Taylor, international speaker and AI Pedagogue, the podcast brings together educators, leaders, policymakers, and others working with AI to talk openly about what it’s really doing in education — and how we can use it well. It’s about solving real problems, improving the quality of teaching and learning, and keeping human thinking firmly in the driving seat. No tech hype. No doom stories. Just real conversations about AI, education, and what comes next.

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