How do we find the right balance using AI to expand student agency, while preserving the thinking, questioning, and creating that fuels learning? 🤔

In the first episode of Common Grounds, Lindsey Douglas and Dr. Jessica Preisig sit down with educator Lisa Furr and student Arjun to explore learner agency in the age of AI.

Lisa brings more than 20 years of classroom experience and now serves as the library media specialist at Pickens High School. Arjun is a Daniel High School student, president of the AI & Machine Learning Club, and creator of The Arjun Report.

Together, they discuss productive struggle, academic support, confidence, discernment, and the difference between using AI to strengthen thinking and allowing it to replace thinking.

At the center of the conversation is one question:

Is AI helping students become stronger, more independent thinkers—or is it doing the thinking for them? 💭

🎧 In This Episode

• What learner agency looks like
• How AI differs from other academic supports
• Why productive struggle still matters
• How AI can increase confidence and access
• The difference between support and shortcut
• Why students need discernment, not just rules

⏱️ Jump In

00:00 — Welcome + the first sip 09:10 — What learner agency means 33:45 — Support or shortcut? 48:30 — Finding the common ground 🤝

💬 Continue the Conversation

Before turning to AI, ask:

• What am I supposed to learn?
• Which part of the thinking should remain mine?
• Am I using AI to deepen my thinking or avoid it?
• Can I explain and defend the final product?
• Am I more capable after using the tool?

🔗 Resources

The Arjun Report Explore Arjun’s writing and perspectives on AI, technology, and the future.

AI4K12 A K–12 framework for helping students understand artificial intelligence.

Empower by John Spencer and A.J. Juliani A practical look at designing learning experiences that give students greater voice, choice, ownership, and agency.

ISTE+ASCD: Artificial Intelligence in Education Resources for thoughtful and responsible AI use in schools.

🎙️ About Common Grounds

Common Grounds is a podcast from the School District of Pickens County Instructional Technology where conversation creates community.

Each episode brings educators, students, leaders, and community members around the table to explore ideas shaping teaching and learning today.

Follow us on Instagram: @sdpctechsavvy

🧡 Special Thanks

This episode was fueled by Mug Shot Coffee in downtown Central, South Carolina. ☕

Thank you to Lisa Furr and Arjun for sharing their perspectives.

Pour yourself a cup, and join us as we find some common ground.