The Mirror, Not the Maker: Rethinking AI in the Classroom
AI is often framed as a tool for producing answers or finished work. In this session, AI takes on a different role: a critique partner that supports ideation, feedback, reflection, and revision—without replacing student voice.
Participants will experience a hands-on learning workflow where AI is used to extend the process of learning through questioning, idea exploration, and structured critique. Image generation and analysis are introduced as “what if” provocations, helping learners see their work differently and make more intentional decisions.
Grounded in real middle school classroom practice, this session demonstrates how AI can increase access to feedback, support hesitant learners, and make revision more meaningful—while preserving individuality, emotion, and cultural nuance. The focus is not on specific tools, but on a flexible, human-centered approach that works even as technologies change.
Educators will leave with a reusable workflow adaptable across disciplines, using AI not as a shortcut, but as a mirror for learning—reflecting thinking, revealing possibilities, and guiding growth.
Facilitated By
Rebecca Jardin
MS Art Teacher, Saigon South International School
Rebecca Jardin is a Middle School Art Teacher at SSIS, Vietnam, with a rich international background teaching K–12 art across Australia, the UK, UAE, China, and Ghana. She holds a Bachelor of Education from Adelaide, South Australia, and a Master’s degree from SUNY Buffalo, and is an Apple Distinguished Educator (2019), Apple Teacher, COETAIL graduate, and Learning2 Leader.
Rebecca is passionate about “mixing paints with pixels,” using both traditional and digital tools to deepen student thinking, voice, and creative ownership. Her work focuses on designing authentic, creative learning experiences where technology supports the process through feedback, critique, reflection, and creation.
A regular international presenter, Rebecca leads hands-on workshops grounded in real classroom practice that educators can adapt across disciplines. A lifelong learner, she continues exploring tools such as Canva, Procreate, Padlet, and AI-supported workflows to ensure emerging technologies enhance learning, inclusivity, and student growth—always prioritising pedagogy and the human element over the wow factor. When not teaching, Rebecca enjoys exploring new places, yoga, nature, and painting.
