{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"The So What Podcast","title":"Navigating AI, Distance Learning, and the Future of Education with Jason Neiffer","html":"<iframe width=\"100%\" height=\"180\" frameborder=\"no\" scrolling=\"no\" seamless src=\"https://share.transistor.fm/e/a3912b93\"></iframe>","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2771,"description":"\nIn this episode of The So What Podcast, host Shweta Gandhi, CEO and Founder of Strived, sits down with Jason Neiffer, Executive Director of Montana Digital Academy, to unpack what it really takes to lead digital learning at scale in a rapidly evolving world.\n\nWith nearly 30 years in education, Jason shares how Montana Digital Academy serves thousands of students across a geographically vast and rural state, expanding access to courses and opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable. From distance learning design to launching the Frontier Learning Lab, this conversation explores how educators can thoughtfully approach AI, emerging technologies, and the future of teaching and learning.\n\nThis episode dives into the complexity of innovation in education, where speed, ethics, and human-centered learning must coexist.\n\nKey Moments\n03:30 Impact of AI on education\n\n07:19 Monitoring student satisfaction data\n\n12:46 Adapting and evolving the program\n\n15:03 Improving student navigation systems\n\n20:39 Supporting rural schools with tech integration\n\n22:22 Adapting to rapid tech changes\n\n25:17 Discussing AI in education policies\n\n30:24 Understanding the pros and cons of AI\n\n34:32 Engaging older students in discussions\n\n35:46 Discussing AI's impact on education\n\n40:12 Discussing technology and learning science in education\n\n43:26 Evolving media and truth challenges\n\n\nWhy You’ll Love This Episode\n\n\nJason brings a rare blend of strategic thinking and on-the-ground experience. His perspective cuts through the hype around AI and focuses on what truly matters: thoughtful implementation, ethical decision-making, and maintaining the human core of education.\n\nIf you’re trying to make sense of AI in schools, lead innovation across complex systems, or design better digital learning experiences, this episode offers clarity and practical insight.\n\n\nConnect with Jason Neiffer | Executive Director, Montana Digital Academy \n\n\nLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-neiffer\nWebsite:...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/8_IWhcz1UYVz_u51Qd70LxMgREGfVeVtbh_cyiQHgMk/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8yMzcw/ZDBhNTFkMjFhY2Rh/MTI1MTQyMTQzN2I0/ZDBiZC5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}