Phil, AI Coordinator at Rashid and Latifa School and STEM specialist, joins Margot Bletterie to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming primary and secondary education, curriculum design, and the broader role of technology in schools.

Drawing on his extensive experience in curriculum implementation, Phil explains why AI integration should be a balanced, sequential process that prioritizes critical thinking, ethics, and human connection over mere screen time. He also shares how educators can effectively navigate government mandates, engage parents, upskill teachers, and prepare students for an evolving digital landscape.

What you'll learn

• What it truly means to serve as an AI coordinator in an evolving educational landscape
• How schools navigate the UAE’s AI mandates while ensuring age-appropriate tech integration and screen time boundaries for young children
• Why building trust and maintaining clear communication with parents is critical when introducing new technology curriculums
• Strategies for upskilling and onboarding teachers through targeted, personalized professional development pathways
• How teenagers actually interact with AI tools - moving beyond instant answers to active ideation, vibe coding, and problem-solving
• Why soft skills like critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, and adaptability remain the ultimate foundation for future career readiness

Chapters

• 00:00 - Intro
• 00:21 - Role of an AI coordinator
• 02:30 - KHDA mandate and what it means for young children
• 14:36 - Managing parent expectations and trust
• 26:12 - Teacher training and digital literacy
• 35:46 - Student preparation and future outlook

CONNECT AND SUBSCRIBE

Learn more about Phil Long: https://www.linkedin.com/in/10phillong/

Subscribe to The AI Social Club Podcast for more conversations with AI and data leaders:

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YouTube: https://youtu.be/r_Ppy9XLzEU

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/margot-bletterie/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ai-social-club/

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