Ainsley Hill tells us how to tame the ‘AI circus’

Has AI, with all of its new capabilities and challenges, made the world of edtech feel a little bit like a “circus?” If so, Ainsley Hill is here to help.

She’ll also be at January’s Future of Education Technology Conference as a featured speaker on Coach Leaders Track, offering guidance on trying to manage the “three-ring spectacle” as new AI tools and technologies emerge.

“When we approach AI with intention and curiosity, we can transform what feels like a circus into an exciting, purposeful learning experience,” says Hil, an instructional technology facilitator at Arlington Community Schools in Tennessee.

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District Administration recently chatted with Hill about taming AI and her approach to coaching teachers on edtech.

1. DA: Describe your coaching style: How do you help teachers get comfortable with new edtech?

Ainsley Hill: When I coach teachers on integrating new edtech, my top priority is building trust and creating a sense of ease. I start by scheduling an initial visit to connect with them personally and understand their unique technology journey. This conversation allows me to identify their learning style and goals, which becomes the foundation for our work together.

When introducing new tools, I always anchor them in what the teacher is already doing in their classroom. By starting with their current practices and focusing on the learning objectives, I ensure that the tech integration feels natural and purposeful. I believe in starting small—helping teachers take baby steps towards their goals—while also encouraging them to take leaps when they feel ready. My aim is for them to leave our sessions feeling empowered, never overwhelmed.

Celebrating risk-taking is also a big part of my approach. Whether it’s a quick shoutout in a staff meeting or a note of appreciation, I love highlighting their efforts. Follow-ups are equally important. I check in to see how things are going and offer ongoing support to keep the momentum alive.

Being visible and accessible is key to my coaching style. You’ll find me in classrooms, co-teaching, brainstorming ideas and working side-by-side with teachers. I believe collaboration is the heartbeat of growth and I’m passionate about fostering a supportive, hands-on partnership every step of the way.

2. How do you inspire students to be active participants in their own learning and what does that look like?

I believe that empowering students to be active participants in their learning starts with giving them choice and voice. When students are allowed to showcase their knowledge in creative and meaningful ways, it transforms their learning experience and helps them take ownership of their growth.

Providing opportunities for choice is key. For example, a teacher might use a choice board, offering students different ways to demonstrate their understanding of a topic—through a video, an essay, a podcast or a presentation. This flexibility allows students to lean into their strengths and interests, making learning feel personal and engaging.

Creativity in assessments helps students shine and gives teachers valuable insights into their understanding. It’s a powerful way to connect learning to students’ experiences while fostering autonomy and a sense of accomplishment.

Creating these choice-driven activities has never been easier with tools like artificial intelligence. AI can generate ideas, resources and scaffolds that make it simple for teachers to design dynamic, student-centered learning experiences. The result? Engaged, empowered students ready to take charge of their education.

3. What are some of the big themes of your presentations at FETC?

The overarching theme of my FETC is empowering educators and students to embrace innovation, creativity and growth. In each session, I provide practical tools and actionable strategies that educators, coaches and administrators can use to transform their classrooms and professional practices.

Whether it’s helping teachers integrate technology seamlessly into their lessons, guiding instructional coaches to become true catalysts for change or exploring how AI can enhance both teaching and learning, my goal is to inspire confidence and spark creativity. I want participants to leave feeling informed and empowered to try something new to take their practice to the next level.

At the heart of all my sessions is a commitment to fostering meaningful connections—between educators, students and technology. By creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences, I aim to show how we can innovate in ways that truly impact teaching and learning.

I hope every participant walks away feeling energized, equipped and ready to create transformative experiences in their schools and classrooms.

4. One of your sessions is titled the “AI circus.” Why do you describe AI this way and what can educators do to help students navigate the technology?

My teammate Crystal Uhiren and I describe it as the “AI circus” because the sheer number of AI tools available to educators and students can feel overwhelming—almost like trying to manage a three-ring spectacle.

New tools and technologies keep emerging, making it feel wild and sometimes chaotic. My goal with this session is to help teachers tame the chaos and take the lead as the ringmasters of this ever-growing AI arena.

Educators play a crucial role in helping students navigate AI responsibly and effectively. We need to provide clear, actionable training on AI best practices. This means understanding the tools themselves, teaching students how to use AI ethically and thoughtfully, and embedding these practices into the classroom in meaningful ways.

5. How does technology facilitate more hands-on learning?

Technology facilitates hands-on learning by transforming the way teachers and students approach education. It allows us to reimagine assessment, turning it into an opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning creatively and meaningfully.

Instead of traditional, passive methods, technology empowers students to take charge of their education, showcasing their knowledge through videos, podcasts, digital projects and other dynamic tools.

Beyond the classroom, technology prepares students for their future by equipping them with the skills to navigate and thrive in an ever-evolving world. It places them on the cutting edge, ready to adapt to innovations and opportunities.

Most importantly, technology helps bridge equity gaps, giving all students access to experiences and perspectives they might not have had otherwise. Through virtual field trips, global collaborations and diverse resources, students can see and explore the world in ways that enrich their learning and broaden their horizons.

Ultimately, technology isn’t just a tool—it’s a gateway to a more engaging, equitable and hands-on learning experience that prepares students for success in and beyond the classroom.