Preserving Human Connection in the Age of AI
Human-Centered Learning
Artificial intelligence is reshaping how students learn, think, and develop their academic identities. Studies show that AI tools, while efficient, risk eroding critical thinking, reinforcing cognitive biases, and replacing authentic learning with algorithmic shortcuts.
Students increasingly mimic AI’s structured reasoning, losing the nuance, creativity, and moral depth that define human-centered thought. Meanwhile, educators grapple with cheating, inequitable access, and the fear that AI may devalue their role.
Our Mission
Connected Classroom exists to help educators harness AI’s potential without sacrificing the human elements of learning. We bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and timeless learning principles. We believe in building AI competency and capacity for educator. This ensures AI serves as a tool for empowerment and not a replacement for intellectual rigor.
“The value of technology is not in the tool, but in the connections it enables between people and between students and learning experiences.”
Perspectives on Learning
We publish research-based insights, practical strategies, and critical reflections on the intersection of technology and education. Our community includes educators, researchers, and school leaders who believe that learning isn't about answers as much as it's about questions.
Share Your Perspective
We believe that meaningful change in education comes from those who are in the classroom every day. If you have something to share about AI, pedagogy, or authentic learning, we want to hear from you.
- Reach an audience of fellow educators and researchers
- Contribute to the conversation on ethical AI in education
- Be featured alongside experts and thought leaders
- Help shape the future of teaching and learning
The Intelligence Suite
The Connected Classroom Intelligence Suite is a collection of AI-powered tools designed by educators, for educators. These tools don’t replace teacher expertise but rather enhance our capacity to facilitate student-centered learning.
Each tool supports:
- Authentic learning
- Student agency
- Ethical integration of AI
- Real-world connection
REAL Connections
Connects lessons to authentic tasks and community needs
Aligns every lesson idea to standards
Engages students through meaningful connections
CrossLink AI
Links subjects through authentic cross-curricular tasks
Streamlines collaborative unit planning
Enhances engagement with real-world connections
UDL Pathways
Adapts lessons for accessibility and engagement
Offers strategies for representation, action, and expression
Personalizes learning for diverse student needs
EdConnect AI
Like ChatGPT but optimized for education
Supports curriculum development and assessment design
Unlimited possibilities for education related queries
Our Core Values
Critical Thinking
AI should develop minds and promote thinking.
Students should interrogate AI outputs, not just accept them. We promote active engagement over passive consumption.
Ethical Equity
Technology must dismantle barriers.
Educational tools should be available to all students and teachers. We reject tools that widen inequality. We are advocates for bias-aware AI.
Human-Centered Design
Learning is relational, not transactional.
Frameworks like the Dialogic Learning Model prioritize debate over answers. Tools like REAL Connections focus on real world connections.
Democratized Knowledge
Education belongs to everyone.
Open-access research. Risk-taking from educators. Reject gatekeeping in edtech.
Featured in Psycology Today
Two of our most-read articles explores how AI subtly changes student thinking and what educators can do about it.
