Schools are catching onto tech’s playbook
Summary
The Vergecast discusses Natasha Singer’s book *Coding Kids*, which examines how Code.org and tech giants used startup tactics to push computer science curricula into schools, often bypassing rigorous educational research. Singer contrasts this rapid, industry-driven approach with academic efforts to broaden CS participation and highlights the lack of evidence that such tech integration improves learning outcomes. The episode also covers recent news, including an Anthropic researcher’s resignation over AI safety concerns, Meta’s new Muse AI agent, and Apple’s teaser for upcoming devices. Ult…
Topics discussed
Introduction to Code.org and the push for CS in schools
90 Seconds on The Verge: AI safety, Meta Muse, and Apple
Sponsor segments: KPMG and LinkedIn Hiring Pro
Historical context: Edison, Jobs, and tech in education
Evidence on whether ed-tech improves learning outcomes
The rise of Code.org and the viral 'Hour of Code'
Scaling Code.org: State laws and teacher training
Academic efforts: AP Computer Science Principles
Tech company curricula approved by the College Board
Critique of tech influence: The 'Big Pharma' analogy
Sponsor segments: Cisco and Square
Sponsor segments: LinkedIn and Uber Eats
Deep lobbying and the 'Screenwashing' backlash
Efficiency vs. learning: The purpose of public schooling
The pivot to AI and the impact on CS graduates
Conclusion: Student agency and the future of tech ed
Listen ad-free on Castria