AI Hacks, VR Magic & Microsoft Reveals #ISTELive

Do you ever feel like this is you? You’re drowning in grading, struggling to keep students engaged, and wondering if you’re falling behind on classroom technology. What if I told you that three conversations I had with some of my copresenters at ISTE 2025 could solve all three problems – and give you back hours of your time each week?

In this power-packed episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, you’ll discover why AI tools for teachers aren’t just helpful – they’re becoming essential for effective instruction. From Microsoft Copilot schools rolling out game-changing features for students 13 and older and teachers, to VR content creation that doesn’t require a computer science degree, this episode delivers the practical strategies that we busy educators need right now.

Whether you’re curious about classroom AI ethics, ready to explore immersive AR learning, or need cybersecurity basics for K-12, my conversations with Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth, Jaime Donally, and Microsoft’s Mike Tholfsen will equip you with tools you can implement immediately.

Plus, don’t miss the three simple AI prompts I teach every student on day one – they transform AI from a cheating tool into a powerful learning partner.

If AI is an answer machine, they won’t be learning. Period.

I’m also including a section on educational vocabulary mentioned in this show as well as links to the tools we discussed in the show.

Note: I have 3 (and possibly 4 weeks) of programming relating to ISTE 2025 and the educators, news, and topics being discussed. Come back here to get updates on those shows.

Watch on YouTube

Listen to the Podcast

Educational Technology Vocabulary Guide

Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, and problem-solving. In education, AI can provide personalized feedback and support student learning. Source: Stanford HAI

Augmented Reality (AR) – “A technology that unites virtual things with the actual environment and communicate directly with one another.” Source: IEEE Computer Society Editor’s note: AR can overlay digital information onto the real world through devices like smartphones or tablets (or Meta Glasses), enhancing what users see and experience.

Virtual Reality (VR) – Immersive technology that creates completely digital environments users can interact with using headsets and controllers. Source: VR Society

Copilot – Microsoft’s AI assistant integrated into productivity applications to help users create content, analyze data, and streamline workflows. Source: Microsoft Learn

Small Language Model (SLM) – Compact AI models designed to run on individual devices rather than cloud servers, providing AI capabilities offline. Source: Microsoft Research

Neural Processing Unit (NPU) – Specialized computer chip designed to accelerate AI and machine learning tasks directly on devices. Source: Microsoft

Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) – Standard that allows educational apps to integrate seamlessly with platforms like Canvas and Schoology. Source: IMS Global

Phishing – Cybersecurity threat where attackers send fraudulent communications to steal sensitive information like passwords or personal data. Source: CISA

Please research and provide links for these tools mentioned in the show:

1. Snorkl AI – https://snorkl.app/ Language learning tool for recording and AI feedback on speaking practice
2. Curiod – Interactive presentation creation platform
3. Gamma – Text-to-presentation conversion tool
4. ChatGPT – AI chatbot for content creation and assistance
5. Microsoft Copilot – AI assistant for Microsoft 365 (now available for students 13+)
6. Microsoft Teach Module – One-stop educator resource creation tool
7. Microsoft Copilot Notebooks – AI-powered study guide and notebook system
8. Microsoft Learning Zone App – On-device AI content creation for Copilot Plus PCs
9. Delightex – VR/AR content creation platform
10. Merge – AR/VR educational platform
11. Prisms VR – Managed VR learning platform for science and math
12. Meta Glasses (Ray-Ban Stories) – Smart glasses with AI capabilities
13. TeachAI.org – AI education resource collaboration
14. AI 4 All – AI lesson planning resources

Featured Guests

Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth

Spanish and STEAM Teacher | Attorney | Consultant | Author

Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM teacher, attorney, consultant, and author of “How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities into Any Content Area.” She travels extensively presenting on educational technology and AI integration in classrooms.

Connect with Rachelle:

Jaime Donally

EdTech Consultant | AR/VR Education Expert | Author

Jaime Donally is an acclaimed educational technology consultant known as “Miss AR, VR in education.” She started in mathematics before transitioning to instructional technology and is the author of “Learning Transported” and “The Immersive Classroom.”

Connect with Jaime:

Mike Tholfsen

Principal Group Product Manager, Microsoft Education

Mike Tholfsen leads product development for Microsoft Education and hosts the popular Microsoft Learning Accelerators YouTube channel, providing tutorials and updates on educational technology tools and features.

Connect with Mike:

Thanks for tuning in for ISTELive ’25 coverage. I’ll be sharing throughout the conference and after it is over. I appreciate you listening to me and following what I say since I’m a classroom teacher. I know there are many voices out there and as always, I hope you find great ones who can reflect what is actually happening in classrooms today. I hope to be one of those trusted voices for you. -Vicki