Podcast

AI Critical Literacy for Educators and Students Podcast Series: Episode 1: Starters – Guest: Dr. Tori Mondell

In the kickoff episode of the Starters podcast series, Dr. Tori Mondelli, Director of the Teaching for Learning Center, joins Dr. Schroeder to discuss generative AI’s role in higher education. Drawing on Ethan Mollick’s concept of “co-intelligence,” the episode unpacks what it means to be AI literate—not just technically, but critically. Listeners will gain insight into how AI can be integrated thoughtfully into curriculum design, why skepticism is vital, and how faculty can help students engage meaningfully with AI tools in a rapidly evolving world.

TOPICS

Teaching with AI

The Teaching for Learning Center is pleased to launch of our new six-part podcast series on AI Critical Literacy. This series, inspired by Ethan Mollick’s book Co-Intelligence, features insightful conversations between Missouri School of Journalism professor Jared Schroeder and thought-leaders from across the university community.

Each episode delves into the implications of generative AI for teaching and learning, emphasizing the importance of critical engagement with the technology. From exploring the ethical considerations of AI to discussing practical approaches for integrating AI into the curriculum, this podcast series is a must-listen for educators and students alike.

Join us as we navigate the rapidly changing world of AI and its impact on education. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for fostering AI literacy in your classroom. Just released — our first three episodes!

Guest: Tori Mondelli, Teaching for Learning Center director
The first episode introduces the series, focusing on generative AI and its implications for teaching and learning at the University of Missouri. Schroeder and Mondelli discuss the need for skepticism and questioning when using AI tools, emphasizing the concept of “co-intelligence,” as they use Ethan Mollick’s book as a guide. The discussion explores definitions of AI literacy, distinguishing it from mere functional literacy, and emphasizes the importance of critical engagement with the technology. The conversation also considers how AI critical literacy should be taught in universities, addressing academic freedom and the necessity of preparing students for a rapidly changing world. The episode includes practical approaches for integrating AI into the curriculum, such as questioning AI-generated content and prompting deeper understanding.