Podcast: The IDEMS Podcast

In this episode David and Zach discuss the exciting work with scaling the math camps in Kenya. These camps, designed to engage all students, not just the math enthusiasts, are changing how young people view mathematics. They share inspiring stories of students who discovered a passion for math through these unconventional and interactive camps. They…

Lily Clements and David Stern continue their discussion on the role of AI in international development, focusing on the evolution of AI in education, particularly in low-resource environments. From providing automated feedback on assessments to supporting personal tutors, they stress the importance of collaboration in building effective feedback systems and consider how AI can enhance…

Lily Clements and David Stern discuss the intersection of AI and international development, particularly in low-resource environments. David reflects on the critical, yet often overlooked, role AI could play in aiding smallholder farmers in regions like West Africa. They consider the potential of open-source AI, the ethical issues around commercially driven AI apps, and the…

In this episode, Santiago Borio and David Stern explore how technology can better support teachers and improve student interactions. They share personal stories, discuss the challenges of providing personalized feedback, and highlight innovative tools and techniques. The episode offers insights into making classrooms more engaging and effective through technology, with perspectives from educational contexts in…

In this episode, co-founding director David Stern is joined by Johnny McQuade, a software developer at IDEMS, for his first discussion on the show. Prompted by recent advancements in AI technology from Chinese company DeepSeek, they consider the impact of resource limitations on technological development, within the field of AI and more generally. They consider…

David Stern talks to Dr. Michael Obiero from Maseno University about their inspiring joint initiatives in educational reform. They delve into the challenges and achievements in developing digital, competency-based mathematics textbooks aimed at the Kenyan education system. Michael shares insights on the innovative methods deployed by the interns working on this project, the integration of…

Santiago Borio, currently working as a maths teacher in Argentina, talks to David Stern about the differences between traditional schooling and other forms of education. They explore the potential downsides of compulsory schooling on rural and traditional communities, the distinction between education and schooling, and the societal impact of standardised education.

In this episode, data scientist Lily Clements and co-founding director David Stern discuss the AI Summit held in France in February 2025. The newly released declaration, signed by over 60 nations, promotes inclusive, sustainable, and responsible AI practices. They consider how, despite the notable absence of the UK and US, the declaration signals a potential…

Following up on the discussion in Episode 129, Santiago Borio questions David Stern further on the implications of Donald Trump’s executive order terminating USAID funding. They analyse the immediate and future consequences of this decision, and compare the situation with the UK’s DFID closure, noting differences in impact and response.

Is it right to treat people differently? In this episode, Lily questions David around the idea of the IDEMS principle “options by context”, and how it applies to making concessions for different students in an educational setting. What is the difference between equality and equity, and which should we aim for?