Episode 10: Embracing Tension In AI Education with Heidi Siwak

In this episode of Eh I Podcast, Heidi Siwak, AI lead at I-Think and experienced Ontario educator, joins Ryan Oliver and Melissa Sariffodeen to discuss what it takes to integrate artificial intelligence into education responsibly. Drawing on over 25 years of classroom experience and her background as architect of I-Think’s Artificial Intelligence Challenge, Heidi shares how over 5,000 students and teachers are using empathy-based problem-solving frameworks developed at the Rotman School of Management to address complex real-world challenges in schools. Heidi discusses the shift from concerns over cheating to the deeper risks of "cognitive surrender," where AI removes necessary educational friction at the expense of student learning. She highlights how maintaining cognitive sovereignty requires leaning into tension, examining data privacy and representation bias, and leveraging practical AI tools like customized teaching agents without sacrificing critical inquiry. Ultimately, she emphasizes that AI must be rooted in human-centered learning, fostering student agency, trust, and co-learning across education systems. Show Credits Hosts: Ryan Oliver, Melissa Sariffodeen Producer: Zac Miller Editors: Zac Miller, Kyle Gordon Original Composition: Warren Frank