Show Notes:
In this episode of The Culture Compute Podcast, host Sai Gattupalli, Ph.D. is joined by Dr. Leslie Gruis, a mathematician, privacy expert, and former NSA intelligence officer, to explore the critical intersection of privacy, national security, and education in our digital age.
Together, they discuss:
The evolution of privacy rights in America and their connection to democratic freedoms
How 30 years at the NSA shaped her understanding of the balance between security and civil liberties
The role of "Privacy Pirates" â tech companies that exploit personal data for profit
Privacy challenges facing K-12 students and educators in digital learning environments
The ethical implications of surveillance technology in schools and society
Strategies for protecting student privacy while leveraging educational technology
The importance of privacy literacy in STEM education and beyond
Dr. Gruis brings a unique perspective as both a national security veteran and privacy advocate, offering insights into how we can protect the next generation's digital rights while maintaining educational innovation.
Featured Guest:
Dr. Leslie GruisAuthor of "The Privacy Pirates" and "Privacy: Past, Present, and Future"Former NSA Intelligence Officer and MathematicianPh.D. in Applied Mathematics and Engineering Sciences, Northwestern University
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-gruis-b8060b141/
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
"The Privacy Pirates: How Your Privacy Is Being Stolen and What You Can Do About It"
"Privacy: Past, Present, and Future"
Dr. Gruis' speaking engagements and privacy advocacy work
Connect with the Culture Compute Podcast:Email: sgattupalli@umass.eduWebsite: https://culturecomputepod.com/YouTube: Equations & Echoes - Educational Science Songs
đĄ Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes on AI, education, privacy, and the digital transformation of learning!
đ§ Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms.
Host: Sai Gattupalli
University of Massachusetts Amherst - Advanced Learning Technologies Lab
Website: â https://www.gattupalli.com/â
Stay tuned for more episodes exploring the intersections of culture, technology, and education in our digital age.
Until next timeâKeep Computing Culture.
Hello listeners! In this episode of The Culture Compute Podcast, I reflect from the Du Bois Library at UMass Amherst on the evolving landscape of educational technologiesâspecifically how synthetic data, on-device AI, and school phone policies are reshaping learning in real-time.
We explore:
The promise of synthetic educational data for privacy and scale.
How students respond to AI-generated vs. instructor feedback.
Surprising findings from a large-scale study on school phone policies and adolescent mental health.
And a sneak peek into my new STEM music project powered by generative AI.
Whether youâre a teacher, researcher, or curious learner, this episode dives deep into the future of learning with nuance and care.
đ Resources & Links Mentioned:
đ” STEM Music Videos on YouTube â Equations & Echoes
https://www.youtube.com/@equations.echoes
đ Khalil, M., Liu, Q., & Jovanovic, J. (2025)
AI for data generation in education: Towards learning and teaching support at scale
British Journal of Educational Technology
https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13580
đ Er, E., Akçapınar, G., Bayazıt, A., Noroozi, O., & Banihashem, S. K. (2024)
Assessing student perceptions and use of instructor versus AIâgenerated feedback
British Journal of Educational Technology
https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13558
đ Goodyear, V. A., et al. (2025)
School phone policies and their association with mental wellbeing, phone use, and social media use (SMART Schools)
The Lancet Regional HealthâEurope
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanepe.2025.101211
Website: https://www.culturecomputepod.com/
Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu
đ§ Subscribe for more conversations where education, culture, and technology converge.
Until next time, keep computing culture.
In this episode of the Culture Compute Podcast: Learning in the Digital Age, I, Sai Gattupalli from the Advanced Learning Technologies Lab at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, review my personal notes from three recent, peer-reviewed research papers that are reshaping our understanding of educational technology. These studiesâpublished in the British Journal of Educational Technology, Learning, Media and Technology, and a work by Salmaan Khanâoffer fresh insights into AI literacy frameworks, the evolving role of algorithmic authorship in academia, and innovative approaches to interactive digital pedagogy.
In our discussion, I explore how Chee, Ahn, and Leeâs comprehensive framework for AI literacy provides a developmental pathway that spans from basic digital skills to advanced data-driven decision-making. I reflect on my own journey in learning technology, emphasizing the importance of continuous professional development and robust institutional support.
Next, I delve into Gretzky and Dishonâs thought-provoking examination of algorithmic authorship. Their work challenges traditional notions of creativity and intellectual contribution as AI tools increasingly participate in scholarly writing. I share my personal insights on the balance between human ingenuity and machine assistance, a theme that has profound implications for the future of academic work.
Finally, I review Salmaan Khanâs study on interactive digital pedagogy, which highlights how adaptive digital platforms can transform classrooms by engaging students as active, collaborative participants. This research underscores the practical benefits of technology when thoughtfully integrated into teaching practicesâa vision that resonates deeply with my own experiences in the field.
Join me as we synthesize these groundbreaking studies and discuss how their collective insights can redefine teaching and learning in our increasingly digital world.
References:
Chee, H., Ahn, S., & Lee, J. (2024). A Competency Framework for AI Literacy: Variations by Different Learner Groups and an Implied Learning Pathway. British Journal of Educational Technology. https://bera-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bjet.13556?af=R
Gretzky, M., & Dishon, G. (2025). Algorithmic-authors in academia: blurring the boundaries of human and machine knowledge production. Learning, Media and Technology. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17439884.2025.2452196
Khan, S. (2024). From Passive Receptors to Engaged Participants: Addressing the Limits of Generative AI and Knowledge Sharing in the Digital Age. https://cuny.manifoldapp.org/read/from-passive-receptors-to-engaged-participants-addressing-the-limits-of-generative-ai-and-knowledge-sharing-in-the-digital-age/section/2b6f966a-0830-42bd-b705-3f0ddb26e6a7
For inquiries or further discussion, please email sgattupalli@umass.edu. Visit CultureComputePod.com for more information.
Show Notes:
In this episode of The Culture Compute Podcast, host Sai Gattupalli is joined by Dr. Dwayne Wood, an educator, instructional designer, and veteran, to explore the evolving role of Generative AI in academic curriculum and instructional design.
Together, they discuss:
As we step into 2025, this episode also introduces a new AI-generated theme for the podcast, reflecting the evolving intersection of culture, technology, and education.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
đĄ Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes on AI, education, and the digital transformation of learning!
đ§ Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms.
https://culturecomputepod.com/
Host: Sai Gattupalli
Welcome to The Culture Compute Podcast! In this episode, I, Sai Gattupalli, explore the fascinating research surrounding generative AI, focusing on its effects on learning motivation, self-regulated learning processes, and performance outcomes. Specifically, I review the 2024 paper "Beware of Metacognitive Laziness" by Fan et al., which introduces the critical concept of metacognitive laziness and raises questions about the role of tools like ChatGPT in reshaping education.
Key Topics Discussed
References:
Fan, Y., Tang, L., Le, H., Shen, K., Tan, S., Zhao, Y., Shen, Y., Li, X., & GaĆĄeviÄ, D. (2024). Beware of metacognitive laziness: Effects of generative artificial intelligence on learning motivation, processes, and performance. British Journal of Educational Technology, 00, 1â42. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13544
Risko, E. F., & Gilbert, S. J. (2016). Cognitive offloading. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 20(9), 676-688. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2016.07.002
Alter, A. L., Oppenheimer, D. M., Epley, N., & Eyre, R. N. (2007). Overcoming intuition: Metacognitive difficulty activates analytic reasoning. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 136(4), 569. https://psycnet.apa.org/buy/2007-16657-003
Cukurova, M. (2024). The interplay of learning, analytics and artificial intelligence in education: A vision for hybrid intelligence. British Journal of Educational Technology. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13514
Related Podcast Episodes
Episode 9: Ethical and Responsible Use of Generative AI in Education with Torrey Trust, PhD
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4HD2aeFQlVvkqhMkhdupod
About the Culture Compute Podcast
The Culture Compute Podcast explores the intersections of culture, technology, and education, hosted by Sai Gattupalli from the Advanced Learning Technologies Lab at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Visit our website: https://culturecomputepod.com/
Connect with Me
Thank you for listening! Until next time, rememberâin the world of AI and education, the most powerful intelligence remains human intelligence. Keep questioning, keep learning, and keep computing culture.
Show Notes:
In this episode, Sai Gattupalli explores a compelling study published in Nature Human Behaviour on the role of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in education. Joined by insights from researchers at Monash University, the Technical University of Munich, and the University of Luxembourg, we examine the future-forward implications of GenAI for human learning, focusing on AI literacy, prompt literacy, and ethical considerations. Topics include:
Sai also shares a personal update about his motherâs first visit to the United States, reflecting on the value of cultural exchange in education. Join us as we delve into the multifaceted potential of GenAI to reshape human learning responsibly and inclusively.
Referenced Research:
Yan, V., Greiff, S., Teuber, L., & GaĆĄeviÄ, D. (2024). Promises and challenges of generative artificial intelligence for human learning. Nature Human Behaviour.
Related Episodes:
Connect with the Culture Compute Podcast:
Email: sgattupalli@umass.edu
Website: https://culturecomputepod.com/
Theme Music: Composed by Liborio Conti
Stay tuned for more episodes exploring the intersections of culture, technology, and education in our digital age.
Until next time.
Show Notes:
In this episode, Dr. Aaron Tillman, Associate Director of the Writing Program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, discusses the evolution of writing instruction in the digital age. We explore:
Dr. Tillman shares insights from his experience as both an academic writing instructor and creative writer, offering valuable perspectives on how writing continues to shape our understanding of culture, technology, and education.
Featured Guest: Dr. Aaron Tillman Associate Director, Writing Program University of Massachusetts Amherst Website: https://www.aarontillmanfiction.com/
Connect with the Culture Compute Podcast: Email: sgattupalli@umass.edu Website: https://culturecomputepod.com/
Theme Music: Composed by Liborio Conti
Stay tuned for more episodes exploring the intersections of culture, technology, and education in our digital age.
Until next time.
Episode Overview: In this episode, host Sai Gattupalli explores a recent systematic review on pedagogical agent design for K-12 education, published in Computers & Education. The study, conducted by Zhang et al., offers crucial insights into the effectiveness and future directions of digital tutors in educational technology.
Key Points Discussed:
Featured Research: Zhang, S., Jaldi, C.D., Schroeder, N.L., LĂłpez, A.A., Gladstone, J.R., & Heidig, S. (2024). Pedagogical agent design for K-12 education: A systematic review. Computers & Education, 223, 105165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2024.105165
Special Announcements:
Connect with the Show: Email: sgattupalli@umass.edu
Credits: Host: Sai Gattupalli Music: Liborio Conti
Thank you for listening to The Culture Compute podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights at the intersection of culture, technology, and education.
Welcome to the 10th episode of The Culture Compute podcast! We're thrilled to have a special guest today, Dr. Torrey Trust, Professor of Learning Technologies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dr. Trust is not only a leading expert in the field but also my PhD advisor. Her insights on AI ethics in education are invaluable as we navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.
Guest: Dr. Torrey Trust, Professor of Learning Technologies, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Key Topics Discussed:
Trust's AI Syllabus Policy Statement
Broader implications for human creativity and higher order thinking
Creativity and over-reliance of generative AI in educationÂ
Paper Review: "Ethical content in artificial intelligence systems: A demand explained in three critical points" by Ana Luize CorrĂȘa Bertoncini and Mauricio C. Serafim. APA reference below.
Key takeaways discussed:
Need for multidisciplinary approach to AI in education
Importance of maintaining ethical standards as AI becomes more prevalent
Balancing AI benefits with potential ethical challenges
Links and References:
Connect with â me, the host of the Culture Compute Podcast. Sai Gattupalliâ
Learning Technologies Researcher
Email: sgattupalli@umass.edu
Music by â Liborio Contiâ
Subscribe to The Culture Compute podcast on your favorite platform. Free and open access.
Until next time, keep computing culture.
Show Notes
In this episode, host Sai Gattupalli explores the future of AI in education, discussing a recent paper by Dr. Mutlu Cukurova on hybrid intelligence in educational contexts, published in the British Journal of Educational Technology in August 2024. APA reference below.
Episode Highlights:
Congratulations to students from Zilla Parishad High School in Bhiknoor, India, for their STEM fair participation
Introduction to Dr. Mutlu Cukurova's work on AI in education
Three conceptualizations of AI in education:
AI as a tool to externalize human cognition
AI models that can be internalized to influence human mental models
AI as an extension of human cognition in hybrid intelligence systems
The importance of developing AI competencies in education
Challenges and potential pitfalls of AI in education
The future of education: creating symbiosis between human and artificial intelligence
Key Topics Discussed:
Hybrid intelligence in education
Cultural aspects of AI in education
Socio-psychological barriers to AI adoption
Resources Discussed:
Cukurova, M. (2024). The interplay of learning, analytics and artificial intelligence in education: A vision for hybrid intelligence. British Journal of Educational Technology. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13514
STEM Showcase at Zilla Parishad High School, Bhiknoor, India: https://sites.google.com/umass.edu/vc2024/Â
About the Culture Compute Podcast:
The Culture Compute Podcast explores the intersections of culture, technology, and education, hosted by Sai Gattupalli from the Advanced Learning Technologies Lab at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.Â
Advanced Learning Technologies Lab
Connect with me:
Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu
Until next time.
This episode delves into the concept of learning disabilities and neurodiversity in learning sciences, challenging traditional perspectives. The discussion covers the impact of various learning disabilities on education, strategies for creating inclusive learning environments, and the role of technology, particularly AI and voice-enabled tools, in supporting diverse learners.
Key Topics:
References:
Get in Touch: For feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes, feel free to reach out to Sai Gattupalli at sgattupalli at umass dot edu.
Visit our new podcast website: https://culturecomputepod.com/
Until next time, keep computing culture in learning!
Show Notes:
In this episode of the Culture Compute podcast, we explore recent research on educational technology and its implications for teachers and students:
References for science nerds:
More episodes on CultureComputePod.com
Host: Sai Gattupalli Music by: Liborio Conti
For more information or to suggest topics for future episodes, please email sgattupalli at umass dot edu.
In this episode, we explore two groundbreaking studies reshaping our understanding of education in the digital age.
We dive into the world of quantum information science, examining how complex topics can be effectively taught online to high school educators. What strategies make virtual professional development successful, even for advanced scientific concepts?
We also challenge long-held stereotypes in computer science education. How do today's youth perceive the 'ideal' computer science student, and what does this mean for inclusivity in tech fields?
Plus, we discuss the implications of these findings for educators, policymakers, and students alike.
Research reviewed in this episode:
Send your questions or comments about this podcast, or anything related to learning sciences and educational technology to sgattupalli at umass dot edu.
Host: Sai Gattupalli Music: Liborio Conti
Show Notes: In this episode of the Culture Compute podcast, we explore two studies from the fields of neuroscience, math education, and education technology. Joined by special guest Will Lee from the UMass Amherst Computer Science department, who is a PhD graduate student by day and a software engineer by night, we delve into fascinating research on the neural origins of creativity and innovative approaches to mathematics education in the digital age.
In this episode, we discuss:
References:
Get in touch for Inquiries and Engagements. Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu Website: â https://culturecomputepod.comâ Research Portfolio: â https://www.gattupalli.com/â
Until next time.
Show Notes:
Join host Sai Gattupalli for a special edition of the Culture Compute podcast as we explore the fundamental concepts of culture and its profound impact on learning and technology in the AI era. In this deep dive, we unpack how anthropologists, sociologists, and psychologists define culture, examine its key components, and understand why cultural intelligence is crucial in our interconnected world. From Edward Tylor's seminal definition to modern interpretations, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the concept that shapes our identities, societies, and technological innovations.
In this special episode, we explore:
References:
Contact Information:
Email: sgattupalli at umass dot edu Website: https://culturecomputepod.com
Host personal website: https://www.gattupalli.com/
Subscribe to The Culture Compute podcast on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on the latest episodes exploring the intersections of culture, technology, and learning in our digital age.
In this episode, we explore two groundbreaking studies that highlight the evolving nature of learning and assessment in the era of AI. We discuss how eye-tracking technology is revolutionizing mathematics education and the implications of AI-generated exam answers going undetected by human markers.
Takeaways and something to think about:
Website: culturecomputepod.com
Email: sgattupalli@umass.edu
Subscribe: Available free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
About the host:
Sai Gattupalli is a learning sciences researcher at the College of Education, University of Massachusetts Amherst. His work focuses on the intersection of culture, technology, and education in the digital age.
The Culture Compute podcast reviews only open-access articles in an attempt to promote open science. Join us next week as we continue to explore the fascinating intersections of culture, technology, and learning in our digital age.
In this episode of The Culture Compute podcast, we dive deep into the groundbreaking work of Richard E. Mayer and his Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML). Discover how our brains process information in the digital age and what it means for the future of education.
Key topics covered:
Whether you're an educator, student, or lifelong learner, this episode offers valuable insights into optimizing learning in our multimedia-rich world.
Featured Paper: "The Past, Present, and Future of the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning" by Richard E. Mayer
APA Reference for science buffs:
Mayer, R.E. The Past, Present, and Future of the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. Educ Psychol Rev 36, 8 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-023-09842-1
Connect with me: Have questions or suggestions for future topics? Reach out to host Sai Gattupalli at sgattupalli@umass.edu
About the host: Sai Gattupalli is a PhD candidate in the Department of Math, Science and Learning Technologies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His research focuses on bridging the gap between culture, technology, and education.
Subscribe to The Culture Compute podcast for more insights into learning in the digital age!
#MultimediaLearning #EducationalPsychology #DigitalEducation #CognitiveScience
In this episode, we explore diverse aspects of digital learning, from AI-powered self-regulated learning to the impact of screen time on children. We examine how community radio builds networks and the potential of ChatGPT in essay scoring. Join us as we unpack these cutting-edge studies and their implications for culture and education in the digital age.
Papers reviewed:
For questions or suggestions, email me at: sgattupalli@umass.edu.
Website: https://www.gattupalli.com/
The Culture Compute Podcast.