Luis Hernández, Author at Enabling Learning LLC

EdTech

Teaching Critical Thinking in the Age of AI and Social Media

In today’s digital landscape, our students face a constant flood of information, and misinformation. With the rise of social media and AI-generated content, the need for critical thinking skills has never been more urgent. As educators, we have a responsibility to help students navigate this complex web of information, equipping them with the tools they need to discern fact from fiction.

One insightful resource on this topic is Yuval Noah Harari’s book Nexus. Harari explains how “echo chambers”, spaces where we’re surrounded by information that reinforces our beliefs, have always been part of human interaction. But in the digital age, these echo chambers are amplified by algorithms that personalize what we see online, trapping us in bubbles that shape our perceptions.

In this post, we’ll explore practical strategies to teach students media literacy and critical thinking in the age of AI. From understanding algorithmic bias to recognizing deepfakes, these tools can help students become more informed and thoughtful digital citizens.

Collage of creative visuals and digital art promoting classroom creativity with Adobe Firefly

AI in Education

Enhancing Classroom Creativity with Adobe Firefly

In this blog post, we explore how Adobe Firefly, an AI-powered text-to-image generator, is enhancing classroom learning by transforming text prompts into custom visuals. This tool allows teachers to simplify complex topics like science and math, making lessons more engaging and accessible, especially for bilingual students. Firefly also empowers students by allowing them to use AI-generated images in projects, helping them combine academic vocabulary with visual content. Whether used in science, math, or other subjects, Firefly fosters creativity and deeper understanding, making learning more interactive for both teachers and students.

Books

Using “The Martian” to Boost STEM Skills for ESL Learners

In this blog post, I explore how The Martian can be a powerful educational tool, especially for teaching STEM and problem-solving skills to younger audiences. For educators, I recommend using the classroom edition of The Martian. It maintains the heart of the story while simplifying the language and concepts for younger readers. This version makes it easier for middle and high school students to understand how subjects like chemistry, biology, and physics can apply to real-world problems. With the help of AI tools, teachers can also make the content more accessible for emergent bilingual students, ensuring everyone gets to experience the book’s valuable lessons on critical thinking and creativity.

AI in Education

Using Perplexity Spaces in ESL Classrooms

Perplexity AI, a conversational search engine known for its direct, cited answers and interactive “Copilot” feature, now offer a new feature called “Spaces”. By combining AI-driven web searches with the ability to upload personal files, Perplexity Spaces creates a personalized knowledge hub for both individual and group use. Teachers can store up to 50 files, customize AI responses, and share their Spaces with up to 10 collaborators, making it easier to differentiate instruction and provide culturally responsive materials. In the ESL classroom, Perplexity Spaces can streamline resource gathering and support differentiated instruction by allowing teachers to create customized learning experiences for students at various proficiency levels. Teachers can also use it to engage students in collaborative learning, helping them develop research skills and build personalized study spaces. Whether planning lessons, designing activities, or aligning with colleagues, Perplexity Spaces offers a flexible, AI-powered tool that can transform the way educators approach teaching.

AI in Education

Overcoming Challenges in Science Education for Emergent Bilinguals

Emergent bilingual students face significant challenges in science education, where they must learn complex concepts while developing English language skills. Specialized vocabulary, like “photosynthesis” or “chemical reaction,” and complex sentence structures often create language barriers that slow down comprehension. Additionally, the cognitive load of processing new scientific information in a second language can be overwhelming. Effective strategies such as cross-linguistic instruction and scaffolded learning can help. The integration of AI tools, like real-time translation and personalized learning aids, offers even more support, helping make science education more accessible for all students. We invite you to try our AI-powered form to explore how these tools can enhance your lesson planning and support emergent bilinguals in the classroom.

EdTech

Unlocking Learning with TPR: Movement, Language, and Technology

Total Physical Response (TPR) is a dynamic teaching method that combines language learning with physical movement, helping students adapt to new school environments and academic content. Developed by Dr. James Asher, TPR allows students to internalize vocabulary through action, making even complex concepts in subjects like math, science, and social studies easier to grasp. By pairing TPR with storytelling and technology, such as video creation and interactive whiteboards, teachers can create engaging, memorable lessons that support long-term retention and deeper understanding. This blend of movement, language, and tech offers a creative way to enhance learning and ensure students can navigate both their new language and academic challenges successfully.

Author: Luis Hernández

Teaching Critical Thinking in the Age of AI and Social Media

Enhancing Classroom Creativity with Adobe Firefly

Using “The Martian” to Boost STEM Skills for ESL Learners

Using Perplexity Spaces in ESL Classrooms

Overcoming Challenges in Science Education for Emergent Bilinguals

Unlocking Learning with TPR: Movement, Language, and Technology