The Cost of Frictionless Learning in the Age of AI | Colleen O'Rourke | TEDxBurleigh Heads ED

As technology advances, what must education hold onto? Colleen O’Rourke explores how innovation should deepen humanity, not replace it. The goal is not just to prepare students for the future, but to help them shape it with agency and intention. Colleen is an award-winning Australian educator and Leader of Digital Innovation, recognised globally as a Top 10 Finalist for the Global Teacher Prize 2026. She is reimagining how schools use artificial intelligence and extended reality to amplify learning, not replace it. Through immersive experiences and innovative practice, Colleen builds empathy, cultural intelligence and a deeper sense of humanity in learning. Her work champions inclusive, ethical innovation, ensuring emerging technologies expand access, strengthen belonging and prepare young people to thrive in an AI shaped world. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx