In the thread titled, "Engagement in the Age of Distraction", educators discuss strategies that can minimize the distraction that technology has the potential to be to students. The discussion began when a teacher asked if anyone knew of strategies that can keep technology integration engaging, even with the distraction of smartphones and digital media. One responder harped on the importance of accountability. Students are responsible for their learning, and they have to set boundaries between using technology socially versus using it academically. One strategy that I strongly agree with is using gamification. Like members of this thread, I agree that students tend to engage when there is a competition involved. As someone who is in an elementary school that integrates technology daily, this thread was extremely beneficial for me because I was able to get answers that I have found asking myself at times. 

In this thread titled "Leveraging AI to Enhance Learning in K-12 Classrooms", the impact that artificial intelligence is having on the world is discussed. Not only is AI becoming a factor in the world, but it is becoming a common resource in the classroom. Since this is so new, teachers are unsure about how to effectively implement AI into the classroom. Some view this tool as something that should never be used in the classroom, while others see the benefits that come from AI. I believe that AI can be beneficial if the correct tools and methods are used to help implement it. 

In the discussion thread "Cellphones in Education," teachers share their concerns about the growing distraction posed by cellphones in the classroom. Many agree that these devices are becoming a significant barrier to student learning. Teachers report that students who once excelled in elementary school are now experiencing academic decline, attributing this shift to increased access to personal phones. In schools without strict cellphone policies, students often take advantage of the lack of enforcement, leading to frequent phone usage during class. Some educators work in schools where students are required to turn in their phones at the start of the day, while others rely on students to self-regulate and refrain from using phones during lessons. This inconsistency often results in students sneaking their devices, ultimately disengaging from the material being taught. While cellphones can be a distraction, I believe they can also be a valuable asset in the classroom if managed effectively. Implementing clear and consistent policies, combined with thoughtfully integrating technology into lessons, can help maximize the educational benefits of cellphones while minimizing their potential for disruption.

In this thread titled "AI Problems and Solutions", Helen Crompton, a Professor of Instructional Technology and Executive Director of the Research Institute for Digital Innovation in Learning, shares resources that discuss the problems and solutions for using AI for education. It is understood that there are hurdles that come with using AI in the classroom, but teachers agree that it can be beneficial if used correctly. The SETI framework is given as a solution. This framework is for those who understand that technology integration is more than just having access to technology. If this framework is studied, teachers will understand the socio and ecological factors that need to be taken into account, such as training, tech support, and policies. The thread also shares a documentary that covers all things from the impact of AI in the classroom, to the problems and solutions for using AI.