Episode 2 October 21
Discover how AI is Reshaping STEM Education Through Personalized Learning
Whether you prefer to watch the conversation unfold or listen on the go, catch this episode on your favorite platforms. Stream the full vodcast on YouTube or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
About This Episode
In this episode, we explore how forward-thinking educators are harnessing AI to deliver tailored learning experiences that spark student curiosity, accelerate skill development, and build the future-ready STEM workforce. Our expert guests provide real-world examples and proven strategies for integrating AI into classrooms in ways that are both ethical and effective. You’ll discover practical guidance for teachers, school administrators, and education leaders seeking to drive student achievement through technology—empowering every learner to succeed in the evolving world of STEM.
Meet the Speakers
Chris Agnew
Chris has over 25 years of experience in education, connecting traditional and non-traditional learning environments. He has led K-12 schools, developed tech apprenticeships with major companies, and designed early literacy programs. Previously, he worked with venture-backed edtech firms, focusing on higher education strategy and professional apprenticeships. Now, as the leader of the Generative AI for Education Hub at Stanford Accelerator for Learning, Chris supports education leaders in using generative AI to enhance student and school outcomes.
Dr. Sonn Sam
Dr. Sonn Sam, the son of genocide survivors, is a dedicated education leader who has positively influenced thousands of young people in the U.S. and globally. With over 22 years of experience in various roles, he now serves as National Director of Partnerships at Big Picture Learning, championing a shift from compliance-based education to learner-driven, real-world experiences. He advocates for recognizing each young person's unique potential and works with education leaders to create equitable, interest-based learning systems. Outside of his professional commitments, Sonn enjoys family time, staying active, reading, writing, and cooking.
Dr. Sydnee Dickson
Dr. Sydnee Dickson, a nationally recognized leader in education, has served Utah’s children, educators, and families for over 44 years. Now the Special Assistant to the Dean for Strategic Initiatives at the University of Utah’s College of Education, she previously spent nine years as Utah’s State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Dr. Dickson is known for her student-focused and data-driven leadership, serves on several influential boards, and is a passionate advocate for science and experiential learning.
Brent Warner
Brent Warner is an award-winning community college professor focusing on integrating technology and innovation into the language learning process. He works with teachers and organizations across the globe to provide practical advice for helping English Language Learners take advantage of tech to help them communicate more clearly. He blogs about technology integration in the ESOL classroom for TESOL International, and he is the co-host of The DIESOL Podcast, focusing on innovation in ESOL, and is the author of Edtech for Multilingual Learners: 48 Fun & Flexible Activities for Every Classroom, published by ISTE.
Dr. Michelle Eckler
Dr. Michelle Eckler is the Director of Instructional Technology for the Stratford Public Schools in Connecticut and an adjunct instructor at Sacred Heart University, specializing in advanced curriculum. Recognized as one of ISTE’s 20 to Watch in 2023, she is an ISTE Certified Educator and Community Leader and a Google Certified Trainer/Innovator. Passionate about technology integration and Digital/AI literacy, she empowers educators through professional learning. Dr. Eckler earned her Ed.D. from Northeastern University. She is a proud mother of two boys on the autism spectrum, has been happily married for 15 years and enjoys reading, crafting, and family time.
YOU MAY NEED TO KNOW
Episode Resources
AI for Personalized Learning
AI for Teachers | Classroom Resources
Resources From our Experts
- Generative AI for Education Hub Website
- Research Repository
- Subscribe to the Stanford Accelerator Newsletter
- Inkwire - an AI tool to help build project based learning experiences
- TeachAI’s - AI literacy framework
- Connect with Chris on LinkedIn
ASCD
- Tech-Powered Personalization, Brent Warner
Other Amazing Episodes
Released Oct. 7
AI in Context: Unpacking AI and its Impact on Education
This inaugural episode will build a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its relevance in STEM education and workforce development.
Dropping Nov. 4
Integrating AI into the Classroom: Helping Students Leverage AI to Advance STEM Learning
This engaging discussion will bring together leading voices from education, industry, and nonprofit sectors to explore how artificial intelligence can be meaningfully integrated into K–12 and postsecondary classrooms to enhance STEM learning.
Dropping Nov. 18
How STEM Educators can Utilize AI to Support Planning and Instruction
This episode discusses how STEM educators can use artificial intelligence to improve lesson planning, teaching, and classroom management.
AI is transforming classrooms and careers — are you ready?
This engaging Vodcast series, proudly supported by the Utah STEM Action Center, is expertly produced by STEMconnector. Through this collaboration, we aim to inspire and empower individuals by showcasing innovative STEM initiatives and insights.

