#47 Raising Thinkers in the Age of AI

Welcome to the Parenting Well podcast with Parent Engagement Network!  I am Dr. Shelly Mahon, your host and today’s well source is Bobby Hodgkinson. Bobby is a Teaching Professor of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he has been on the faculty since 2012. A graduate of CU Boulder, he holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering Sciences, with deep experience in hands-on research and applied engineering. Today, Bobby focuses on experiential learning, helping his students learn not just what to think, but how to think, through project-based courses and capstone labs. He is deeply engaged in integrating generative AI tools into education, including the development of AI-based tutoring systems. His work explores how AI can support learning without replacing critical thinking.  Recently, he co-led a workshop for the Parent Engagement Network on navigating AI and Building a Parenting Workbook. In this podcast, Bobby brings a rare blend of technical expertise, teaching experience, and practical insight to help parents understand how AI works, where it helps, where it falls short, and how they can guide their children to use AI thoughtfully, responsibly, and creatively in a rapidly changing world. In this podcast, we talked about: The evolution of AI in schools AI as an enhancement mechanism The risks associated with AI How to talk to your children about AI Teaching your children to think in the world of AI The importance of practicing with AI and using it with your children Why building a community of parents helps you navigate this journey Maintaining the human element when using AI Resources: CU Boulder Profile LinkedIn Profile Bobby's Research Profile