Shows
The Culture Compute PodcastFrom NSA to STEM Mentorship – A Conversation with Dr. Leslie GruisShow Notes:In this episode of The Culture Compute Podcast, host Sai Gattupalli, Ph.D. is joined by Dr. Leslie Gruis, a mathematician, privacy expert, and former NSA intelligence officer, to explore the critical intersection of privacy, national security, and education in our digital age.Together, they discuss:The evolution of privacy rights in America and their connection to democratic freedomsHow 30 years at the NSA shaped her understanding of the balance between security and civil libertiesThe role of "Privacy Pirates" – tech companies that exploit personal data for pr...2025-07-091h 02
The Culture Compute PodcastEducation’s Mirror: AI, Feedback, and ScreensHello listeners! In this episode of The Culture Compute Podcast, I reflect from the Du Bois Library at UMass Amherst on the evolving landscape of educational technologies—specifically how synthetic data, on-device AI, and school phone policies are reshaping learning in real-time.We explore:The promise of synthetic educational data for privacy and scale.How students respond to AI-generated vs. instructor feedback.Surprising findings from a large-scale study on school phone policies and adolescent mental health.And a sneak peek into my new STEM music project powered by generative AI...2025-04-3016 min
The Culture Compute PodcastConverging Perspectives: Redefining Education Through AI Literacy, Algorithmic Authorship, and Interactive PedagogyIn this episode of the Culture Compute Podcast: Learning in the Digital Age, I, Sai Gattupalli from the Advanced Learning Technologies Lab at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, review my personal notes from three recent, peer-reviewed research papers that are reshaping our understanding of educational technology. These studies—published in the British Journal of Educational Technology, Learning, Media and Technology, and a work by Salmaan Khan—offer fresh insights into AI literacy frameworks, the evolving role of algorithmic authorship in academia, and innovative approaches to interactive digital pedagogy.In our discussion, I explore how Chee, Ahn, and Lee’...2025-02-1817 min
The Culture Compute PodcastAI, Instructional Design, and the Future of Education – A Conversation with Dr. Dwayne WoodShow Notes:
In this episode of The Culture Compute Podcast, host Sai Gattupalli is joined by Dr. Dwayne Wood, an educator, instructional designer, and veteran, to explore the evolving role of Generative AI in academic curriculum and instructional design.
Together, they discuss:
The transformative impact of AI on K-12 and higher education
Strategies for implementing multimodal learning techniques for diverse learners
Key adult learning principles and how AI can enhance educational effectiveness
The ethical considerations of AI-generated content in instructional design
The balance between human-centered learning and AI-driven innovation
As...2025-01-081h 15
The Culture Compute PodcastBeware of Metacognitive Laziness: The Role of Generative AI in LearningWelcome to The Culture Compute Podcast! In this episode, I, Sai Gattupalli, explore the fascinating research surrounding generative AI, focusing on its effects on learning motivation, self-regulated learning processes, and performance outcomes. Specifically, I review the 2024 paper "Beware of Metacognitive Laziness" by Fan et al., which introduces the critical concept of metacognitive laziness and raises questions about the role of tools like ChatGPT in reshaping education.
Key Topics Discussed
The emerging concept of metacognitive laziness and its implications for learning.
How generative AI impacts motivation, self-regulation, and performance in education.
The broader interplay...2024-12-1825 minThe Culture Compute PodcastReview of Yan et al.'s Insights on Generative AI in EducationShow Notes:In this episode, Sai Gattupalli explores a compelling study published in Nature Human Behaviour on the role of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in education. Joined by insights from researchers at Monash University, the Technical University of Munich, and the University of Luxembourg, we examine the future-forward implications of GenAI for human learning, focusing on AI literacy, prompt literacy, and ethical considerations. Topics include:
Personalized AI-driven learning experiences
Expanding accessibility through diverse learning resources
Real-time, constructive feedback to enhance student learning
Authentic assessments for real-world skills
Addressing GenAI’s model imperfections and hallucinations
Ethical issues: transparency, pr...2024-11-1320 min
The Culture Compute PodcastWriting in the Digital Age: A Conversation with Dr. Aaron TillmanShow Notes:
In this episode, Dr. Aaron Tillman, Associate Director of the Writing Program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, discusses the evolution of writing instruction in the digital age. We explore:
The intersection of traditional writing and digital literacy
Flexible and inclusive course design in higher education
The role of AI in writing education
The importance of multimodal composition in modern writing instruction
UMass Writing Program's transition to open educational resources (OER)
Dr. Tillman shares insights from his experience as both an academic writing instructor and creative writer, offering valuable perspectives on how writing...2024-10-231h 00
The Culture Compute PodcastThe Future of Digital Tutors: Unraveling the Complexities of Pedagogical Agent Design in K-12 EducationEpisode Overview:
In this episode, host Sai Gattupalli explores a recent systematic review on pedagogical agent design for K-12 education, published in Computers & Education. The study, conducted by Zhang et al., offers crucial insights into the effectiveness and future directions of digital tutors in educational technology.
Key Points Discussed:
Introduction to pedagogical agents and their role in modern education
Overview of the systematic review methodology and scope
Key findings on learner preferences and their impact on learning outcomes
The importance of implementing effective teaching strategies in pedagogical agents
Gaps in current research, particularly...2024-10-0618 min
The Culture Compute PodcastNavigating the AI Revolution in Education: Ethics, Creativity, and the Future of Learning with Torrey Trust, PhDWelcome to the 10th episode of The Culture Compute podcast! We're thrilled to have a special guest today, Dr. Torrey Trust, Professor of Learning Technologies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dr. Trust is not only a leading expert in the field but also my PhD advisor. Her insights on AI ethics in education are invaluable as we navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.
Guest: Dr. Torrey Trust, Professor of Learning Technologies, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Key Topics Discussed:
Trust's AI Syllabus Policy Statement
Broader implications for human creativity and higher order...2024-09-1828 min
The Culture Compute PodcastNavigating the AI Revolution in Education: Ethics, Creativity, and the Future of Learning with Torrey Trust, PhDWelcome to the 10th episode of The Culture Compute podcast! We're thrilled to have a special guest today, Dr. Torrey Trust, Professor of Learning Technologies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dr. Trust is not only a leading expert in the field but also my PhD advisor. Her insights on AI ethics in education are invaluable as we navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.
Guest: Dr. Torrey Trust, Professor of Learning Technologies, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Key Topics Discussed:
Trust's AI Syllabus Policy Statement
Broader implications for human creativity and higher order...2024-09-1828 minThe Culture Compute PodcastReview of Cukurova's Vision for the Future of AI in Education - Hybrid IntelligenceShow Notes
In this episode, host Sai Gattupalli explores the future of AI in education, discussing a recent paper by Dr. Mutlu Cukurova on hybrid intelligence in educational contexts, published in the British Journal of Educational Technology in August 2024. APA reference below.
Episode Highlights:
Congratulations to students from Zilla Parishad High School in Bhiknoor, India, for their STEM fair participation
Introduction to Dr. Mutlu Cukurova's work on AI in education
Three conceptualizations of AI in education:
AI as a tool to externalize human cognition
AI...2024-09-0918 min
The Culture Compute PodcastUnderstanding Learning Disabilities and Neurodiversity in Learning SciencesThis episode delves into the concept of learning disabilities and neurodiversity in learning sciences, challenging traditional perspectives. The discussion covers the impact of various learning disabilities on education, strategies for creating inclusive learning environments, and the role of technology, particularly AI and voice-enabled tools, in supporting diverse learners.
Key Topics:
Understanding learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and ADHD
The importance of early identification and intervention
Strategies for inclusive education, including multisensory teaching, assistive technology, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
The potential of adaptive learning systems and voice-enabled AI to support students with learning disabilities
2024-08-2817 min
The Culture Compute PodcastThe Impact of App Store Rankings and Game-Based Pedagogies on Educational TechnologyShow Notes:
In this episode of the Culture Compute podcast, we explore recent research on educational technology and its implications for teachers and students:
Educational App Selection: I discuss a study examining how user ratings and app store rankings influence educators' selection of educational apps. The research reveals surprising preferences and biases in the app selection process.
Game-Based Learning in Science: I delve into research on different game-based pedagogies in science education, comparing serious game-based learning with learning by making games. The study offers insights into how students' gaming habits affect their learning outcomes.
Implications for...2024-08-2211 min
The Culture Compute PodcastEp. 6: Quantum Education Online & Redefining Computer Science StereotypesIn this episode, we explore two groundbreaking studies reshaping our understanding of education in the digital age.
We dive into the world of quantum information science, examining how complex topics can be effectively taught online to high school educators. What strategies make virtual professional development successful, even for advanced scientific concepts?
We also challenge long-held stereotypes in computer science education. How do today's youth perceive the 'ideal' computer science student, and what does this mean for inclusivity in tech fields?
Plus, we discuss the implications of these findings for educators, policymakers, and students...2024-08-2012 min
The Culture Compute PodcastEpisode 5: Origins of Creativity and Math Education InnovationShow Notes:
In this episode of the Culture Compute podcast, we explore two studies from the fields of neuroscience, math education, and education technology. Joined by special guest Will Lee from the UMass Amherst Computer Science department, who is a PhD graduate student by day and a software engineer by night, we delve into fascinating research on the neural origins of creativity and innovative approaches to mathematics education in the digital age.
In this episode, we discuss:
The role of the default mode network (DMN) in creative thinking and its implications for learning
How the brain's...2024-08-1831 min
The Culture Compute PodcastEpisode 4: Special Episode on the Foundations of CultureShow Notes:
Join host Sai Gattupalli for a special edition of the Culture Compute podcast as we explore the fundamental concepts of culture and its profound impact on learning and technology in the AI era. In this deep dive, we unpack how anthropologists, sociologists, and psychologists define culture, examine its key components, and understand why cultural intelligence is crucial in our interconnected world. From Edward Tylor's seminal definition to modern interpretations, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the concept that shapes our identities, societies, and technological innovations.
In this special episode...2024-08-0821 min
The Culture Compute PodcastEpisode 3: Eye-Tracking in Math Education and AI-Generated Exam AnswersIn this episode, we explore two groundbreaking studies that highlight the evolving nature of learning and assessment in the era of AI. We discuss how eye-tracking technology is revolutionizing mathematics education and the implications of AI-generated exam answers going undetected by human markers.
Announcements about upcoming presentations at the MassCUE Fall Conference 2024
Updates on the Upward Bound and Massenburg STEM Institute programs
Discussion of eye-tracking research in mathematics education (see below for DOI)
Exploration of a study on AI-generated exam answers (see below for DOI)
Reflections on the convergence of culture, education, and technology in the age of...2024-08-0612 minThe Culture Compute PodcastEpisode 2: Mayer's Multimedia Learning TheoryIn this episode of The Culture Compute podcast, we dive deep into the groundbreaking work of Richard E. Mayer and his Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML). Discover how our brains process information in the digital age and what it means for the future of education.
Key topics covered:
Introduction to Richard E. Mayer and his contributions to educational psychology
The three core assumptions of the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning
Practical examples of how CTML applies to everyday learning experiences
Key principles for designing effective multimedia instruction
The future of multimedia learning research
Whether...2024-07-2611 minThe Culture Compute PodcastEpisode 1: Digital Learning Landscapes: From AI Tutors to Community RadioIn this episode, we explore diverse aspects of digital learning, from AI-powered self-regulated learning to the impact of screen time on children. We examine how community radio builds networks and the potential of ChatGPT in essay scoring. Join us as we unpack these cutting-edge studies and their implications for culture and education in the digital age.
Papers reviewed:
Ng, D. T. K., Tan, C. W., & Leung, J. K. L. (2024). Empowering student self-regulated learning and science education through ChatGPT: A pioneering pilot study. British Journal of Educational Technology, 55, 1328-1353. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13454
Caballero-Julia...2024-07-1713 min