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Kathleen O’Toole on Classical Education, AI, & Rescuing a Lost Generation

Episode length: 31m

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What if the real education crisis isn’t falling test scores, but a generation losing the ability to focus deeply, think critically, or even just read an entire book? In this episode, Dr. Kathleen O’Toole of Hillsdale College explains why today’s students are less cognitively developed, and how classical education offers a powerful alternative. From the failures of literacy instruction and colleges of education to the impact of screens and COVID disruptions, we discuss what went wrong and what can be rebuilt. O’Toole makes the case for content-rich learning, great books, and the formation of the whole person, and explains why more families are turning to these models, especially now that expanding school choice programs empower families to choose a classical education option. In an AI-driven world, Dr. O’Toole argues, classical education graduates’ ability to develop their minds, acquire knowledge, and think for themselves may provide the ultimate advantage.

How the Classical Education Movement Is Rescuing a Lost Generation | The American Spectator | USA News and Politics: https://spectator.org/how-the-classical-education-movement-is-rescuing-a-lost-generation/

Classical education can help students endure the age of AI - Washington Times: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2026/jan/13/classical-education-help-students-endure-age-ai/

Nine questions every parent should ask before choosing a school for their child: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/4471562/questions-ask-parents-schools-enrolling-child-registration/

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Host:
Ginny Gentles