What the Tech?: An Educator’s Guide to AI, AR/VR, the Metaverse and More

An introductory look at emerging technologies for K–12 educators. Poth examines topics including artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, NFTs in education, the Metaverse, Web 3.0, and cybersecurity, providing research-based insights and practical strategies for classroom integration. Each chapter includes sample lesson plans and sidebars to connect theory to practice. The “Educator Story” sections are a highlight, offering relatable and practical examples of how teachers have integrated these technologies into their classrooms. However, the “Student Story” feature is limited to a single example focused on artificial intelligence. This narrow scope leaves readers without more student perspectives to fully understand the impact of these tools in the classroom. While this book provides a broad overview of emerging technologies, its lesson plans often feel surface-level, without the depth needed for educators seeking robust, actionable strategies. The lack of more detailed exploration of the tools themselves and their specific applications weakens the book’s practical value. However, this book may serve as a useful starting point for educators new to these topics.