Dr. Lloyd Jackson is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience shaping the future of young people. He currently serves as the Proud Superintendent of the Texarkana Arkansas School District, where he is committed to making a lasting impact on students, educators, and the community. Dr. Jackson began his career as a high school mathematics teacher before advancing into leadership roles, including middle school assistant principal, high school principal, and deputy superintendent within the Hot Springs School District, where he served for 14 years. He later became the Assistant Superintendent of School Leadership for Kansas City Public Schools before taking the helm in Texarkana. A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Jackson earned his doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Beyond his professional roles, Dr. Jackson remains deeply committed to service, always striving to uplift and support his community. He is married to the beautiful Veronica Jackson, and together, they embrace the power of education as a passport to a brighter future.
In a recent interview with K12 Digest, Dr. Lloyd Jackson discussed his experience with mathematics and AI. He shared his views on curriculum standards, digital tools and AI, digital learning with traditional teaching methods, AI shaping the future of mathematics education, and many more.
How has technology changed the way students learn and interact in classrooms?
Technology has significantly transformed the way students learn and interact in classrooms. With the rise of digital tools, students now have access to a wealth of information at their fingertips, allowing for more self-directed learning. Interactive platforms and real-time collaboration tools have made learning more engaging, while adaptive software tailors instruction to individual student needs. Virtual and augmented reality are also enhancing experiential learning, making abstract concepts more tangible. Additionally, technology has reshaped classroom interactions, enabling students to communicate and collaborate beyond physical boundaries through online discussions, shared documents, and video conferencing.
How have curriculum standards adapted to meet the needs of today’s students?
Curriculum standards have evolved to meet the needs of today’s students by incorporating skills essential for the modern workforce, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy. There is a stronger emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, where subjects like science, math, and technology are integrated to reflect real-world applications. Standards now focus on preparing students to be adaptable learners, ensuring they can navigate a rapidly changing technological landscape while maintaining foundational knowledge in core academic areas.
How has the role of teachers evolved with the integration of digital tools and AI?
The role of teachers has shifted from being the primary source of information to facilitators of learning. With the integration of digital tools and AI, teachers are now guiding students in how to analyse, interpret, and apply information rather than simply delivering content. AI-driven platforms assist with grading, personalized learning plans, and identifying student learning gaps, allowing educators to focus more on mentorship, critical thinking exercises, and fostering creativity in their students.
What are the biggest concerns educators have about the use of AI in classrooms?
Educators have several concerns about the use of AI in classrooms. One major issue is the potential for decreased human interaction and over-reliance on technology, which could impact social and emotional learning. There is also apprehension about data privacy and security, as AI systems collect vast amounts of student information. Additionally, there is the challenge of ensuring AI tools are equitable, as not all students have the same access to technology outside of school. Teachers also worry about the possibility of students using AI to complete assignments without truly engaging in the learning process.
How can schools balance digital learning with traditional teaching methods to create an inclusive environment?
Balancing digital learning with traditional teaching methods requires a thoughtful approach that values both innovation and foundational practices. Schools should integrate technology as a complement to hands-on learning, discussions, and problem-solving activities rather than a complete replacement. A blended learning approach, where students engage with digital tools while also participating in teacher-led instruction, group work, and experiential learning, can create a more inclusive environment. Providing professional development for teachers ensures they can effectively use digital tools without diminishing the personal connections that are essential to learning.
How has the approach to teaching mathematics changed in recent years?
The approach to teaching mathematics has shifted in recent years to focus more on conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization. Inquiry-based and problem-solving approaches are now at the forefront, helping students develop a deeper grasp of mathematical concepts. Technology has introduced dynamic visualization tools, allowing students to explore patterns, test hypotheses, and receive immediate feedback. There is also an emphasis on real-world applications to make math more relevant and engaging for students.
How is AI helping students develop stronger problem-solving skills in mathematics?
AI is helping students develop stronger problem-solving skills in mathematics by offering personalized learning experiences. AI-powered platforms can analyse student responses, identify misconceptions, and provide targeted practice problems that adapt to individual learning needs. These tools also encourage a growth mindset by providing step-by-step feedback, allowing students to learn from mistakes and approach problems from multiple angles. Additionally, AI simulations and interactive exercises give students opportunities to explore mathematical reasoning in a more engaging and intuitive way.
Can AI help personalize math instruction for students with different learning styles and abilities?
AI plays a crucial role in personalizing math instruction for students with different learning styles and abilities. By continuously assessing student progress, AI can adjust the difficulty of problems, suggest alternative explanations, and offer customized practice exercises. For visual learners, AI can provide interactive graphs and diagrams, while auditory learners may benefit from verbal explanations. AI-driven tutoring systems also allow struggling students to receive extra support while advanced learners can be challenged with more complex problems, ensuring all students progress at an appropriate pace.
How do you see AI shaping the future of mathematics education over the next decade?
Over the next decade, AI is expected to shape the future of mathematics education by making learning even more adaptive and interactive. AI-driven virtual tutors will likely become more sophisticated, providing real-time explanations and personalized feedback that closely mimic human instruction. Collaborative AI tools will enhance peer learning, allowing students to work on problem-solving tasks together while receiving AI-generated insights. Additionally, AI will continue to refine assessment methods, moving beyond traditional tests to evaluate students’ critical thinking and reasoning skills more effectively.
What skills should educators focus on to prepare students for an AI-driven world?
To prepare students for an AI-driven world, educators should focus on teaching adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Rather than emphasizing rote memorization, instruction should center on analysing information, interpreting data, and applying knowledge in innovative ways. Digital literacy, including understanding how AI works and its ethical implications, should be incorporated into the curriculum. Collaboration and communication skills will also be crucial, as working alongside AI systems will require strong human-AI interaction. Ultimately, fostering a mindset of lifelong learning will be key to ensuring students can navigate and succeed in an ever-evolving technological landscape.