Season 1 Episode 2: Voices from the Field with Josh Stock

What We Can Learn from Josh Stock’s Approach to Classroom Tech

By Dr. Adam Carreon

In our latest Voices from the Field episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Josh Stock, a 6th-grade language Arts teacher from Kansas. With 18 years of experience, all in middle school, Josh brings a veteran's perspective to the ever-evolving landscape of classroom technology. He's not afraid to tackle the "messy process" of new tech, especially when it comes to AI, and he offers refreshing insights into how it can genuinely save teachers time and empower students.

Here are a few takeaways from our conversation that highlight Josh's strategic approach to tech in real classrooms:

1. AI as a Powerful Time-Saver for Teachers

Josh's guiding principle for tech is clear: if it saves time, it's valuable. He enthusiastically embraces AI, both in his personal life (even for car shopping!) and in the classroom. He shared a brilliant example of how AI helps him with lesson prep: instead of manually sifting through texts for supporting quotes, he asks AI to provide them. He then double-checks them, but the initial heavy lifting is done, freeing up his precious time.

2. Navigating the "Blurring of Lines" with AI

Josh is candid about the challenges AI presents, particularly the "blurring of lines between what is their work versus what is the AI's work." This isn't a problem he shies away from; instead, he's actively working to understand it and teach his students how to navigate this new landscape responsibly. His approach isn't to ban AI, but to integrate it thoughtfully.

3. Empowering Students to Use AI Effectively

A significant part of Josh's tech strategy involves not only using AI himself but also teaching his 6th-grade students to use it effectively. This proactive stance ensures that students aren't just consumers of technology, but informed and critical users who understand its potential and its pitfalls. It's about building digital literacy for the future.

4. The Enduring Love for Middle Schoolers

While not strictly about tech, Josh's deep affection for his students shines through. He describes the middle school age group as "energetic, exciting," where "every day is different. Every kid is different." This passion for his students undoubtedly fuels his dedication to finding and implementing technologies that genuinely benefit them and enhance their learning experience.

Signing Off

Josh Stock's insights remind us that effective technology integration isn't about avoiding challenges, but about grappling with them strategically. He champions AI as a powerful ally for teachers, a tool that, when used effectively and taught responsibly, can save time and deepen student learning. His dedication to both the tools and the students he serves is truly inspiring.

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