This fall, Inly faculty and staff engaged in professional development on the rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence. We learned about the many ways that AI can benefit us with planning and innovating our work.

Innovation happens quickly, and the way we approach education needs to change along with it. We must embrace AI in our work as educators and guide our students in the constructive use of it. And now, more than ever, our students need an education model that is equally flexible and innovative. 

Inly Speaker Series guest, Google Education Evangelist Jaime Casap also spoke about the tidal wave of innovation and its impact on jobs and the future of our children. He emphasized the increasing importance of a flexible education model that teaches our children “human skills” — ability to learn/adaptability, problem management, storytelling, collaboration and community, digital understanding and leadership. These are the skills that artificial intelligence and machines cannot do.

“What we need more than anything are more schools like Inly,” Jaime Casap said. “Where the focus is on those human skills. ‘Is my student learning how to learn? Is she learning how to tell stories? Is she learning how to collaborate and work well with others?’ We need more spaces where students can innovate and iterate and try new things.”

Casap continued, “I know a whole lot about Maria Montessori. Her model was not ‘build a model and keep it forever.’ Her model was to go do something, observe, and then change it. Her model was one of constant iteration and innovation.”

At Inly, our Montessori+ approach adapts to a student’s needs. It’s a model that nurtures curiosity and passion, encourages problem-solving, and provides opportunities for leadership and collaboration. Inly’s approach is poised to develop “human skills.”