Education Technology
Just Thinking…About the Educational Perspective From Down Under with Brett Salakas
An Australian education leader shares how his region is reimagining classrooms in the age of artificial intelligence
Key takeaways
An Australian education leader shares how his region is reimagining classrooms in the age of artificial intelligence
Just Thinking's Kevin Dougherty explores the educational perspective from Down Under with Brett Salakas, an Author and HP Education Ambassador. This timely discussion aligns with ongoing global conversations about AI's role in education and how different regions are adapting to these changes.
Salakas, a leading voice in education from Australia and one of DA Magazine's top 100 influencers, shares his unique insights. His extensive experience includes founding the largest online network of teachers in Australia, Aussie Ed, and working as an HP Education Ambassador, where he champions innovative digital practices.
Throughout the conversation, Salakas delves into his journey in education, the challenges and opportunities brought by AI, and his latest work, "A Eulogy for the Essay: Authentic Assessment in the Age of AI." He emphasizes the critical need for empathy in teaching, especially as AI becomes more prevalent. "AI has the potential to enhance the humanity within classrooms, allowing teachers to connect deeply with students," Salakas said.
AI has the potential to enhance the humanity within classrooms, allowing teachers to connect deeply with students.
— Brett Salakas, Author and HP Education Ambassador
Salakas also discusses the wild geese phenomenon in Korea, where families seek a blend of Eastern and Western educational practices to provide a well-rounded learning experience for their children. This example highlights the importance of balancing traditional and innovative teaching methods to foster critical thinking and creativity.
The episode concludes with an invitation to embrace a boomerang approach to education: "Pour out love to all the relationships you have, and watch it come back to you," Salakas advises. This philosophy underscores building solid and empathetic connections in educational settings.
Pour out love to all the relationships you have, and watch it come back to you.
— Brett Salakas, Author and HP Education Ambassador
Join this insightful conversation to gain a fresh educational perspective from Down Under and learn how to integrate AI thoughtfully into teaching practices.
About the author
Kevin Dougherty is the Chief Strategy Officer for 806 Technologies. He has spent the past 39 years as an educator and serving educators. A graduate of the University of Massachusetts/Amherst, Kevin earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Multicultural Education. He later earned a Master of Education Degree in Education Administration from the University of Massachusetts/Lowell. Kevin was a classroom teacher for ten years in the Dallas, Boston, and Houston areas. He then served as an assistant principal/principal of Title I/Bilingual campuses in Fort Bend ISD and Irving ISD. For the past 22 years, Kevin has been serving educators throughout Texas and the nation in various roles supporting sales/marketing, professional learning, and overall company strategy. He has been married to his wife, Michelle, for 33 years. They have two grown children who both live in the DFW area.
