AI in the Classroom: What Works. What Doesn't. What's Next.
- graceyu36
- Apr 17
- 3 min read
A 1990 Institute Teachers Workshop
May 6, 2026
4:00 PM Pacific | 6:00 PM Central | 7:00 PM Eastern
Virtual Event on Zoom
Is AI here to stay? If so, how should educators respond?
With each technological revolution, there lies a complete spectrum of adopters — from early adopters to cautious adopters. Artificial Intelligence is no exception. Its role in the classroom remains a highly debated topic among educators, and at the center of this conversation is pedagogy. With the advent of AI, we’ve seen pedagogy shift in very different directions: on one side, a reversion back to blue books and in-class writing to preserve academic integrity; on the other, as a thought partner within the classroom to deepen learning.
In this 90-minute Teachers Workshop, we will explore the benefits, concerns, and practical implications of AI in education. We will hear from two educators who are actively using AI in their classrooms to enhance student engagement, promote educational equity and deepen learning. This session will also include an example of how AI was used outside, for and within the classroom to create a classroom-ready Civics lesson.
No matter where you fall on the AI adoption spectrum, please join us! You will gain practical, classroom-ready strategies to thoughtfully and effectively explore the role of AI in your classroom.
This virtual webinar is open to all audiences, with a segment at the end devoted to high school educators teaching contemporary history, civics, technology and social studies.
SPEAKERS AND MODERATOR
Since the acquisition of the healthcare technology company he founded and led as CEO, Tom has advised nonprofits, startups, and innovation accelerators. He teaches and mentors students in computer science, AI, and entrepreneurial skills at a private high school in Chicago serving mainly underserved students. Inspired by his students and the school's commitment to and success in entrepreneurial learning, he founded Link AI Studios in 2025, a public benefit corporation designed to uplift and prepare students for the new world of work driven by AI and technology.
A dedicated educator in the San Francisco Bay Area, Adam is the district social studies lead teacher for the Jefferson Union High School District and teaches in its newcomer bridge program for English language learners. Adam has taught social studies and civics. Over the years, he has supported efforts in curriculum development, professional learning communities, faculty coaching, and school climate initiatives including student civic education and engagement. His work is guided by a commitment to civic education, student voice, and equity-focused programs that support inclusive school communities and serves on the 1990 Institute Teacher Advisory Council.
With three decades of leadership across Silicon Valley and international markets, Alan has worked at the intersection of technology, innovation, and cross-border engagement. Previous roles include General Manager of PayPal China and VP of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships for Asia Pacific at Visa, based in Singapore. Today, Alan serves as an executive coach, investor, and advisor, supporting entrepreneurs and emerging leaders through growth and purpose. He brings a deep commitment to building cross-cultural understanding and serves as a 1990 Institute board member and Program Committee member.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This webinar is funded in part by the Henry Luce Foundation.
The 1990 Institute is a 501 c(3) not for profit educational organization focusing on uplifting the Asian American narrative and introducing more nuanced understanding of U.S.-China Relations. Visit our YouTube Channel for recordings of past Teachers Workshop and educational videos well as our New Asian American Voices Instagram Channel about Asian American's place in the U.S. development, past and present. There is also a library of reference and teaching materials for educators and the curious opportunity to dive deeper into the subject matter.
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