Project Based Learning Meets AI Innovation: A conversation with Skills21

In this episode of the Elevate Education Podcast, Jason Firestone sits down with Matt Mervis, Director of AI Strategy, and Dr. Elizabeth Rowley, Director of Research and Innovation at Skills 21, to discuss how AI is reshaping K-12 education. From enhancing personalized learning experiences to fostering critical thinking through project-based learning, they explore the transformative power of combining AI tools with student-driven projects.

Learn how AI is supporting students in overcoming learning roadblocks, fueling creativity, and offering real-world applications that make learning more relevant. This conversation dives into the potential of AI to complement and amplify the hands-on, inquiry-based education that prepares students for the future. Tune in for insights on how schools can integrate AI into classrooms, along with practical tips on prompting and using AI ethically to support students’ growth and creativity.

Resources from this episode:

• Skills 21 Website – For more information about their work in project-based learning and AI integration in schools: Skills 21

• Skills 21's AI Prompt Library – A collection of resources for educators to utilize AI in classrooms, including sample prompts for creating rubrics, lesson plans, and more: Skills 21 AI Prompts

• ChatEdu Podcast – A podcast by the Skills 21 team where they explore AI and its applications in education: ChatEdu Podcast

• AI Vision and Voice Tools – Exploration of tools like AI Vision (e.g., Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot) and AI Voice for interactive learning: