305: Last Minute Digital Gift Ideas

Forgotten to get gifts for everyone? Or just run out of ideas? These unique digital gift ideas are ones homeschool families will love to give or receive! Here are the 12 ideas I mention in this episode.

1. Online Escape Room Experiences
   Interactive virtual escape rooms themed a the whole family can solve together.  Editable gift vouchers make it easy to print off or email the gift.
2. Annual Subscription to a Streaming Service
   Choose something unique like CuriosityStream (documentaries), BroadwayHD (theater), or MasterClass (learning from experts).
3. Online party games
   Jackbox is the go-to for our family – be sure to check for age-appropriate ones.
4. Board Games Adapted for Online Play
   Buy a Tabletopia –  $80 for 6 months or Board Game Arena premium subscription for families to enjoy classic and modern board games virtually.
5. Scavenger Hunts 
   Scavengerhunt.com – Gift a year or just one hunt for 2 or 6 people. Can use in many cities all around the world
6. Audiobooks
   Prepay for a subscription to Pinna (audiobooks and podcasts designed for kids) or an Audible Kids+ plan.
7. Online Gaming
   Listen to last month’s episode – STEAM gift cards or Nintendo Online Subscripition
8. Online Cooking Classes
   Live or recorded – YesChef
9. Digital Classes – Art, Graphic Design, Stop Motion, Music
   Give them access to online art platforms like Skillshare, Procreate tutorials, or an Udemy course for digital drawing and painting. Show sponsor FundaFunda Academy offers some that are suitable as gifts
10. Virtual Coding Camps
    Enroll them in platforms like CodeCombat, or FundaFunda Academy’s Scratch or Python classes for fun and engaging coding experiences.
11. Digital Tools Subscription
    Gift access to tools like Canva Pro,  Adobe Creative Cloud etc
12. Digital Comic Book Subscription (e.g., Marvel Unlimited, DC Universe Infinite): 
    Access to a vast library of comics for all ages. e.g., Marvel Unlimited, DC Universe Infinite

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Last Minute Digital Gift Ideas appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

304:  AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep

This episode covers AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep. Lots of ways to save time on tasks so you can spend time with family and friends.

1. Creating a Detailed Schedule

• Demonstrated using ChatGPT
• Example prompt: Sharing entire holiday to-do list
• Benefits:
  • Breaks down overwhelming tasks
  • Creates day-by-day planning
  • Can incorporate family member tasks

2. Gift Shopping and Ideas

• Tips for effective prompts:
  • Provide detailed personal preferences
  • Be specific about constraints (budget, interests)
  • Refine results with follow-up questions

3. Recipe and Leftover Management

• Used AI to find recipes for leftover turkey
• Suggestion: Provide available ingredients for more personalized recipe recommendations

4. Party and Travel Planning

• Game suggestions for various age groups
• Christmas party games for 6-75 year olds
• Car trip games for children 10-14
• Detailed game instructions available through AI

5. Educational Holiday Learning

• Example: Exploring Christmas traditions in Iceland
• AI-suggested resources:
  • Book recommendations
  • YouTube video suggestions
  • Interactive websites
  • Cultural research projects
  • Potential quiz and activity ideas

Practical AI Tool Tips

• Use specific, detailed prompts
• Try multiple AI platforms
• Cross-reference suggestions
• Use for inspiration when stuck

Recommended Platforms

• ChatGPT
• Claude
• Perplexity
• Gemini

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

 

The post AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

303: 2024 Hour of Code Highlights

In this episode, we explore highlights from the 2024 Hour of Code, an initiative during Computer Science Education Week to introduce students (and even parents!) to coding in fun and engaging ways. Whether your children are new to coding or already experienced, there’s something here for everyone.

What is Hour of Code?

• A global event during Computer Science Education Week (December 9-15, 2024).
• Aimed at introducing coding to beginners in an approachable way.
• Features free, interactive, and age-appropriate coding activities for everyone, from kindergarteners to adults.
• The theme for 2024 is “Make the Invisible Visible”, helping participants understand what happens behind the scenes in tech.

How to Participate

• Visit hourofcode.com to access all activities (available year-round).
• Customize searches by grade level, device type, and topic.
• Try coding solo, as a family, or host an Hour of Code event with friends.

Why Join the Hour of Code?

• Fun and easy way to explore computer science.
• Encourages creativity and logical thinking.
• Shows how programming powers everyday tech and games.

Highlights of 2024 Hour of Code Activities

1. Music Lab Jam Session
   • Create music step-by-step by coding beats and melodies.
   • Features sound blocks to remix tracks from artists like Shakira and Sabrina Carpenter.
   • Introduces AI, allowing it to generate drum beats to complement your creations.
2. Hello World (Transformer 1)
   • Build and program Transformers-like robots to complete tasks.
   • Includes built-in hints and feedback to guide participants.
3. 3D Space Invaders Game
   • Code and control elements of a video game, like spaceship movement and enemy actions.
   • Perfect for visualizing how commands shape gameplay.

Bonus Opportunity: Christmas Coding Contest

Check out the Christmas Coding Contest sponsored by FundaFunda Academy!

• Designed for both beginners and experienced coders (using Scratch).
• Features interactive Christmas-themed scenes and tutorials.
• Entry fee: $5, with Amazon gift card prizes for top projects.

Sign up here

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post 2024 Hour of Code Highlights appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

302: Gaming Gift Ideas that Won’t Break the Bank

Heidi Lathram, is a homeschooler, homesteader, gamer, and educator with over 15 years of teaching experience and she share gaming gift ideas your children will love – and are affordable.

Below are links to various things Heidi mentioned in the podcast – you need to listen to the episode to understand the context and her specific recommendations.

Gaming Hardware Tips

• Console Options:
  • Nintendo Switch (2017, $300) Switch Lite (2019, $200) Switch OLED (2021, $350)
  • Xbox Series X (1TB, $500), (1TB, digital, $450) (2TB, $600); Series S (512G, digital, $300)
  • PlayStation 5 Pro (2024, $700) (controller, $200) ($1,000 bundle for all)
• Why Choose PC Gaming?
  • More affordable options (starting at $400).
  • Free multiplayer access and extensive game selection via platforms like Steam.
  • Retro gaming, family accounts, and customizable parental controls available.
  • Gaming PC ($400-2,000; newegg.com – look for their “Shell Shocker” deals – and other sites)

Game Recommendations

Heidi shares her favorite games, many created by indie developers:

• Heidi’s favorite (budget) game picks: – Stardew Valley ($15) – Core Keeper ($15) – Palworld ($30) – Terraria ($10) – Starbound ($15) – Portal 1&2 ($15/bundle) – Steamworld Dig 1&2 ($26/bundle) – Pacman Championship Edition DX+ ($15)
• For more information about specific game titles, check out this article: https://www.indyed.com/articles/what-is-your-kid-really-learning-from-video-games

Affordable gamer gifting:

– Nintendo gamers – Switch accessories – Switch online membership – Nintendo store gift card from Walmart – Roblox – Robux – Fortnite – Vbucks – PC Gamers – Steam wishlist game purchases – isthereanydeal.com (historic and current comparative pricing on most titles) – Fanatical bundles – Check Steam sales – Gamer merch – Fangamer.com – teeturtle.com – Individual game developer websites – Headphone/mic combo – New Mouse, Keyboard, or game controller – Gaming chair – RGB LED lighting – Solid State Hard Drives – 3D printed game-related items Heidi’s Classes You can find Heidi’s classes at IndyEd.com here: https://www.indyed.com/secular-curriculum/heidi-lathrem-ma Or you can check out my farm page (with self-paced and live class links) directly: https://harvestheritageacademy.podia.com/

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Gaming Gift Ideas that Won’t Break the Bank appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

301: Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers

 

This episode with guest Tauna Meyer  from Proverbial Homemaker discusses Lexercise, a tech tool designed to help homeschooling families with children who have dyslexia. Tauna is sponsored by Lexercise but is really seeing a difference with her son.

Key Points:

• Homeschooling a child with dyslexia can be challenging, especially when traditional methods fail. Finding affordable and effective support can be difficult.
• Lexercise is a research-based, online program that uses the Orton-Gillingham approach to support children with dyslexia. It offers structured literacy, gamified practice, and therapist guidance.

Benefits:

• • Improved reading fluency and confidence
  • Addresses letter formation, spelling, and language processing issues
  • Offers self-paced video lessons from dyslexia experts
  • Provides daily practice games with points and rewards
  • Extensive documentation and support, including access to a therapist
  • More affordable than in-person therapy options

Considerations:

• • Screen time management may be necessary
  • The program uses “word neighborhood” rules and “memory hooks” which may be unfamiliar to some parents
  • The basic program may require additional support for children with severe dyslexia

Find out more / discount code:

• Tauna shares a coupon code for a discount on Lexercise , plus more info on the program, in this post

Where to find Tauna

Connect with Tauna on the Proverbial Homemaker Facebook Page, in her Facebook Group Homeschool Successfully and on Instagram at tauna_phomemaker

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Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology in your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

300: Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses

Join us as we celebrate the 300th episode of Homeschooling with Technology! Host Meryl van der Merwe highlights 15 top tech tools she uses in both her online classes and everyday life. Each tool has been featured at some point over the podcast’s journey, making this episode a refresher or a first-time introduction to tools that can benefit homeschoolers. As a bonus, our show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy, is offering special discounts, free resources, and an exciting giveaway!

Exclusive Bonuses: Listeners can enjoy discounts, free items, and a giveaway! Here’s a summary:

• Discounted Courses:  Use code PODCAST300 for $15 off select FundaFunda Academy products until 11/19/24 
  • Beginning Scratch Class – Intro to programming for just $40 (originally $55).
  • Self-Paced Photography Class – Ideal for middle and high school, now $60 (originally $75)
  • Astronomy Bundle – 8 modules covering stars stars and planets, discounted to $19 (originally $34)
  • Who’s Who in WWII Unit Study – Only $5 after discount (originally $20)
• Giveaway: Enter to win all 6 FundaFunda self-paced, parent-graded courses worth $549, covering Anatomy, Computer Applications, Health, Theater, Photography, and Photoshop. One person will win all 6. You can earn up to 4 entries depending on the actions you choose to take. Closes 11/20/24 8am ET.
• Freebies: Use code PODCAST300 to get any of these products free until 11/19/24 
  • ACT Introduction
    Ideal for first-time ACT test-takers, this guide helps students understand what to expect, easing them into test prep with confidence.
  • Can You Escape Biology Class?
    A high school-level escape room game created by FundaFunda’s chemistry instructor, covering key biology topics.
  • Mystery of the Painted Pyramids
    A geography-focused mystery game for 4th-8th graders, set in modern Egypt.
  • Homeschool-Friendly Contest List
    A curated list of around 40 contests open to homeschoolers, including free and paid options.

15 Free Tech Tools for your Homeschool

1. PHET – Free interactive science and math simulations from the University of Colorado.
2. Canva – A comprehensive design tool perfect for creating graphics, videos, presentations, and more.
3. Magic School AI – An AI-powered platform allowing parents to set up customized educational tools for their kids.
4. iCivics – Engaging games that teach government concepts through real, interactive play.
5. Padlet – A collaborative tool that allows students to share work on virtual pinboards.
6. Edpuzzle – Makes video learning interactive by adding questions to YouTube videos.
7. Trello – An organizational tool perfect for managing assignments, family schedules, and personal tasks.
8. Scratch – A drag-and-drop programming platform that introduces coding concepts.
9. Duolingo – A language-learning app with gamified lessons that now includes math and music.
10. Vocabulary.com – A gamified platform to improve vocabulary skills.
11. NGPF Games – Financial literacy games that teach practical money management skills.
12. Google Arts and Culture – Dive into global art, history, and geography through virtual tours, Street View, and interactive games.
13. ChatGPT and other LLMs – Harness the power of ChatGPT or similar tools to assist with explanations, project ideas, customized study aids, field trip recommendations, and even dinner planning based on ingredients on hand.
14. Bookbub – Discover discounted and free eBooks on Amazon
15. Purpose Games – Quiz-style games on subjects like history, science, and math.
    

     

    Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

    Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

299:  Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool

Crystin Morris,  a homeschool mom and founder of Delightfully Feasting, shares ideas on how to approach tech literacy in a homeschool environment. She provides practical guidance for integrating tech skills into everyday learning while maintaining a balanced, holistic approach.

Key Tech Literacy Skills

Kristen outlines three foundational skills that she believes every homeschool should prioritize:

1. Navigation – Understanding and navigating digital devices and platforms.
2. Digital Citizenship – Developing an ethical and moral compass for online interactions.
3. Management/Stewardship – Learning to use technology wisely, balancing its benefits and potential drawbacks.

Balancing Tech and Traditional Learning

Crystin emphasizes that technology doesn’t have to be viewed as separate from traditional learning tools like books. She incorporates tech intentionally, teaching her children to value both tech and non-tech resources. This approach adapts yearly, with regular conversations and adjustments to meet her children’s developmental needs.

Recommended Tech Resources

• Digital Citizenship Curriculum from Common Sense Media: Engaging, age-appropriate resources for teaching digital citizenship.
• Khan Academy: Quality resources on technology and online safety that Kristen uses in her own homeschool.

Beginner-Friendly Tech Projects

Crystin recommends coding as a great introductory project, as it offers an instant, rewarding experience for kids. She also encourages integrating videos, articles, and online resources as a normative part of homeschooling to show children the wide range of educational tools beyond physical books.

Being Good Consumers, Not Just Creators

Crystin stresses the importance of teaching children to be thoughtful consumers of tech content, not just creators. This means teaching them to curate their digital experiences, exercise discernment, and make intentional choices about what they consume online.

Addressing AI with a Measured Approach

Crystin advises homeschoolers to approach AI with “measured awareness” rather than fear-driven panic. She encourages parents to focus on what they can control, build familiarity with new technologies, and remember that every major technological advancement in history was met with initial concern.

Links and Resources

• Common Sense Media’s Digital Citizenship Curriculum: Common Sense Media
• Khan Academy Tech and Safety Resources: Khan Academy
• Blog post with a list of resources that Crystin mentions
• A related post about using technology as a tool
• Post about irrationally fearing technology

Where to find Crystin

• Visit Crystin’s website, Delightfully Feasting, for courses and tools: DelightfullyFeasting.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delightfullyfeastingpress/

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

298: Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features

 

Upcoming Episode Celebration:

• Episode 300 is just around the corner! Tune in when it releases to enjoy freebies, discounts, and fun activities.

Episode Highlights:

1. Overview of Instagram’s New Safety Features for Teens
   • Instagram has introduced several safety protocols for users aged 13-18, defaulting their accounts to private to limit access by unknown adults.
   • Parental supervision settings vary for teens aged 13-15, while those aged 16+ have more autonomy but can opt for additional parental controls.
2. Key Features Introduced by Instagram:
   • Restricted Messaging: Teens can only message users they follow, which reduces the risk of unsolicited messages from strangers.
   • Sensitive Content Filtering: Topics like mental health and other sensitive subjects are monitored, directing teens toward expert resources rather than peer advice.
   • Time and Notification Limits: After 60 minutes of use, teens receive reminders, with a “sleep mode” between 10 PM and 7 AM to limit notifications overnight.
3. Parental Control & Teen Feedback:
   • Parents can now monitor messaging activity and restrict specific app use times.
4. Challenges with Enforcement and Teen Workarounds:
   • Instagram uses AI to identify potential age misrepresentation, flagging new accounts and suspicious behavior patterns.
   • While these safeguards aren’t foolproof, they represent a step toward more secure use for teens.
5. Resources and Additional Reading:
   • The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt for parents wanting more context on the effects of social media on teens.
   • https://familycenter.meta.com/instagram-safety
   • https://about.fb.com/news/2024/09/instagram-teen-accounts

 

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

 

The post Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

297: AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM

In this episode, we look at an exciting tool that can revolutionize how homeschoolers approach research and learning: Notebook LM, an AI-powered app developed by Google.

In This Episode:

1. What is Notebook LM?
   It  is an AI-powered research tool available for free from Google. It’s built on the Gemini platform and helps students (and parents) quickly summarize and organize information from multiple sources.
2. How to Use Notebook LM for Research
   Upload various sources like PDFs, links, and slideshows. Once uploaded, it generates summaries, timelines, FAQs, and even study guides—all based on the material provided.
3. Key Features of Notebook LM
   • Summaries and Timelines: Get concise summaries and chronologies of the content, especially useful for subjects like history or science.
   • Study Guides and Quizzes: AI-generated questions, glossaries, and suggested essay topics help reinforce learning.
   • Cast Lists for Literature or History: create character bios, making it useful for literature or historical studies.
   • FAQs and Glossaries: Automatically generate key terms and important questions for any subject matter.
   • Customizable Notes and Sharing: Up to 50 sources and 1,000 notes per project. Easily share notebooks with students or other parents.
4. Engaging Audio Overviews – AI Podcasts
   One standout feature is that Notebook LM can create audio summaries of your content in a podcast-like format. Here is a sample focused on glaciers, and it’s an engaging, conversational style designed to help students learn while being entertained.

Resources Mentioned:

• Notebook LM by Google – Free if you have a Google account.

Join the Conversation:

• Come share your thoughts in our Facebook Group and tell us how you’re using AI-powered learning tools like Notebook LM.
• Don’t forget to rate and review the podcast on your favorite platform—it helps others discover our show!

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

 

 

The post AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

296: 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI

 

In this episode we look at 10 good ways for students to use AI. Last week, weshared 10 bad ways students might use AI. If you haven’t listened to the previous episode, check it out for full context, but you can also jump into this one first if you prefer.

Highlights from This Episode:

1. Reading Assistance
   AI can help students by simplifying texts to a more appropriate reading level. For students struggling with older texts or complex academic papers, tools like Magic School AI and Class Companion can translate or rephrase documents to make them more understandable. This is especially useful in subjects like history or literature where archaic language can be a barrier to comprehension.
2. Editing and Feedback
   Students can use AI as a grammar and style editor. Tools like Grammarly and Class Companion can help identify grammar errors, improve sentence structure, and even suggest ideas for expanding a piece of writing. AI should act as a helper, much like a parent or teacher offering feedback.
3. Idea Generation
   AI can help students brainstorm ideas for projects or essays. For example, if a student needs to create a slideshow on Argentina, it can suggest topics that should be included.
4. Creating Images
   Instead of using images with unclear copyright restrictions, students can create their own AI-generated images.
5. Studying for Tests
   AI can help students prepare for tests by generating practice questions and answers. Students can use it to quiz themselves, which can be particularly helpful when parents or teachers aren’t available to help with revision.
6. Finding Resources
   AI tools like Perplexity can suggest credible resources for research projects or papers.
7. Explaining Concepts
   AI can simplify complex ideas or explain concepts in various subjects, such as math, science, or grammar. Students can ask it to break down difficult topics or provide real-life examples to enhance understanding.
8. Learning with Songs
   AI can create custom songs to help students memorize information. AI-generated songs can be a fun and engaging way for students to remember facts, particularly in subjects where rote memorization is needed.
9. Coding and Debugging Help
   AI tools can help identify bugs and correct syntax.
10. Task Breakdown
    AI can help organize ideas, giving structure to an otherwise overwhelming assignment. It can even create a timeline of a task to help keep students on track..

For a detailed exploration of these strategies and more, listen to the full episode.

Resources Mentioned:

• Class Companion
• Magic School AI
• Grammarly Go
• Canva
• Suno
• Perplexity

 

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

295: 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI

We explore “10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI.” We’re focusing on how NOT to use AI tools. As AI becomes a major part of our children’s future, it’s crucial that we teach them the right ways to engage with it.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. No Personal Information
   AI platforms may store data to improve models, so personal info shouldn’t be used. Students must avoid sharing sensitive details when using AI for tasks like essay feedback.
2. Don’t Use AI as a Search Engine
   AI can give misleading or overly advanced answers. Students risk providing answers that don’t align with course materials, making it obvious when they cheat.
3. Avoid Brainstorming with AI
   Using AI to generate ideas can lead to laziness. Encourage students to use their own creativity first, then consult AI for additional ideas if needed.
4. Don’t Write Essays or Short Answers Using AI
   This is essentially cheating. Using AI to write homework defeats the purpose of learning and undermines integrity.
5. Be Wary of Asking AI to Explain History
   AI-generated answers may come with biases or inaccuracies, so it’s better to consult multiple primary sources to form a balanced understanding.
6. Don’t Use AI as an ‘Online Friend’
   With AI bots integrated into platforms like Snapchat, it’s easy for students to rely on them for companionship. But real friendships with real people are essential.
7. Don’t Seek Advice from AI
   For life’s challenges, students should turn to trusted adults, not AI. Encourage open communication with family or counselors instead.
8. Avoid Using AI for Problem-Solving Right Away
   Encourage students to try solving problems themselves first, then turn to AI as a last resort. Developing critical thinking is important.
9. Don’t Over-Edit with AI
   AI can help improve writing, but overuse can erase a student’s voice. Teach students to keep their work authentic, even with a few imperfections.
10. Don’t Use AI for Creative Projects
    Relying on AI for creative tasks diminishes human creativity. Students should cultivate their own ideas and skills, experiencing the joy of creating something from scratch.

Join the Conversation

If you have other ideas on how AI shouldn’t be used, join the discussion in our Homeschooling with Technology Facebook community. Let’s learn from each other and help our children navigate AI responsibly.

Tune in next week for 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI!

 

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

 

The post 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.