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Can/Am Report Vol. 19 Issue, No. 1
March 5, 2026
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LRSD’s Human-Centered AI Journey | C21 AI Leadership Series
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Dear MindShare Community Member,
Happy Thursday, and welcome to the 19th edition of the Can/Am Report, spotlighting Canada’s Human-Centered AI Journey across K-12 and post-secondary education.
As AI adoption accelerates across campuses and classrooms, we are witnessing both unprecedented opportunity and real tension. A new Coursera report shows that 95% of students and educators are using AI tools, yet only a quarter of educators worldwide feel prepared to use them effectively. Meanwhile, new research from Education Perfect finds that 77% of teachers report stress tied to the pace of AI rollout.
This issue captures a defining moment: education systems moving from experimentation to intentional, accountable, and human-centered AI implementation.
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
Human-Centered AI Leadership
🔹 LRSD’s Human-Centered AI Journey | C21 AI Leadership Series & the launch of Round 3 of the C21 Dell Technologies AI Use Case project
🔹 Toronto Zoo U Learning Day - connecting wild learning with applied AI experiences
🔹 Post-secondary institutions embedding AI with accountability rather than simply adopting off-the-shelf tools
🔹CoSN2026 Preview Podcast: Building What’s Next Together
🔹Black History Month Spotlight Black History Month Live: Warren Salmon in EdTech
🔹Reimagining School Mental Health: A Summit Preview-- MindShare is a proud media sponsor of the Summit!
National Teacher & Student Pulse
81% of students report AI improves their learning experience, and 90% want GenAI training in their programs. Educators are asking for unified platforms, professional learning, and stronger policy frameworks to reduce overload and ensure safe implementation.
K-12 Innovation & STEM Momentum
From AI-powered study supports to robotics championships at Brock University and national STEM competitions at Canadore College, innovation continues to expand. Mentorship initiatives across districts also highlight the importance of connection and leadership development in an AI-driven era.
Post-Secondary Acceleration
At Dalhousie University, DeepSense connects students with applied AI career pathways. Simon Fraser University advances quantum and AI communications networks, while Wilfrid Laurier University leverages immersive technologies to promote health and longevity. McGill University, University of Toronto, and OpenAI are also accelerating applied AI initiatives with global reach and student engagement.
Book of the Week
The UNICEF Digital Education Strategy 2025–2030 outlines a bold vision to bridge digital divides and accelerate measurable learning gains through evidence-based innovation.
As we move deeper into 2026, the question is no longer whether AI will transform education, it already has. The real question is how intentionally, ethically, and collaboratively we guide that transformation. Starting with the students in mind, watch for the C21 7C's Student AI Micro-credential Coming Soon!
Like all meaningful innovation, success will depend not on speed alone, but on trust, governance, inclusion, and sustained professional learning.
Thank you for being part of the MindShare community: educators, leaders, innovators, and partners committed to ensuring technology strengthens human potential rather than replaces it.
Please continue to share your stories with us. And do reach out if you have a great topic for a MindShareTV podcast.
Stay inspired, stay connected, and as always, keep the learning curve steep!
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P.S. Watch for our 18th Schools of the Future AI For Student Well-Being Challenge Launching later this month! |
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Robert Martellacci, M.A. EdTech
Founder & President, MindShare Learning Media & Consulting
Chief Digital Publisher, The MindShare Learning Report™
Chair, 16th Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit
Founder, MindShare Workspace--Your Place to Work & Learn
CEO & Co-founder, C21 Canada--Canadians for 21st Century Learning & Innovation
Follow us on Twitter @MindShareLearn @c21can @mindsharework
https://mindsharelearning.ca/ |
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Our team was proud to host Dr. Brett Caraway, UofT Mississauga last year's Canadian EdTech AI Summit Co-Chair, to begin planning for this Fall's Summit. Be sure to Save the Dates, Oct 28-29! DM to express your interest in speaking, or sponsoring! |
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MindShare Presents at
Toronto Zoo U Learning Day |
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Toronto’s Largest Experiential Classroom — A Well-Kept Secret?
It was a thrill and an honour to present “Wild Innovation: Where Zoo Science Meets Technology” at what I like to call Toronto’s largest outdoor experiential classroom — the Toronto Zoo.
Surrounded by passionate zoo staff and educators, it was inspiring to explore how experiential learning comes alive in nature. Did you know the zoo is open year-round? Our family certainly took advantage of that when my kids were younger—it was always a favourite place to visit and learn together.
One of the ongoing challenges in education is engaging learners from “K to Grey.” Experiences in nature can help bridge that gap. Research shows that time outdoors is rejuvenating for our wellbeing. Add animals to the equation and the learning impact becomes exponential.
Perhaps Toronto’s largest classroom isn’t hidden at all, it’s simply waiting for more of us to step outside and discover it. RM.
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"New Coursera report shows that 95% of students and educators are using AI on campus — but only a quarter of educators worldwide feel prepared to use it effectively"
By Marni Baker Stein, Chief Content Officer, Coursera |
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We surveyed over 4,200 students and educators and found that 95% are using AI tools. What does this mean for the future of higher education?
Eighty-one percent of students and educators think AI makes the educational experience better, and the same percentage of students say their grades have improved because of AI. At the same time, students want to learn more about AI—nine out of ten want GenAI training included in their degree programs.1 |
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Black History Month Spotlight Black History Month Live: Warren Salmon in EdTech |
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C21 7C's Micro-credential
Coming Soon |
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CoSN2026 Preview Podcast: Building What’s Next Together |
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UNICEF Digital Education Strategy 2025-2030 |
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The purpose of the new Digital Education Strategy is to dramatically accelerate results for learning and the global impact of UNICEF’s work on learning gains and skills acquisition. To achieve major global progress, all the digital education work of UNICEF will move to a focus on improving learning outcomes through evidence-based approaches, in alignment with UNICEF’s education strategy – Every Child Learns. It will have a particular focus on bridging digital divides, including gender, disability and linguistic digital divides, and on children both in and out of school. Multiple transformative shifts are required to address these challenges and close the learning and skills gap. It is imperative to implement innovative and cost-effective approaches to expand access to quality education and ensure equitable learning opportunities. |
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The 2026 Canadian Teacher Experience Report |
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New Education Perfect report finds 77% of teachers stressed by AI rollout
- 65% believe their district is not adapting fast enough to provide safe, curriculum-aligned AI tools.
- 71% of teachers aged 18-34 and 76% of those aged 35-54 report feeling stressed by the pace of AI adoption.
- 64% say a single, unified AI-enabled platform would significantly reduce stress and workload.
While teachers are told AI will create classroom efficiency, an overwhelming majority say keeping pace with new tools is a source of stress, according to new national research from Education Perfect (EP), a global K-12 EdTech leader.
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MindShare Learning is a Proud Media Partner of Mental Health Summit |
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Reimagining School Mental Health: A Summit Preview |
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Special Offer For MindShare Community
Super Bundle Sale: Buy 4 and get the 5th FREE
starting at $2499.00 |
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It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your classrooms, meeting spaces, or training rooms with the latest in interactive technology.
For a limited time, while stocks last, when you purchase 4 Android TeamBoard Touch screens, you’ll receive the 5th absolutely FREE.
These apply to the Android Series 55”, 65” and 75” TeamBoard screens.
Offer valid until April 30th while stocks last.
Key Product Highlights:
- 4K native resolution (3840 x 2160 px) – vibrant and detailed visuals
- Multi-touch capability – up to 20 touch points for smooth collaboration
- Built-in AirServer app – for wireless collaboration BYOD
- USB-C 65Watt to Power, Display, Charge, Control your computer
- Integrated Mini OPS slot – upgrade-ready, customizable solutions
- Sizes from 55” to 75” – suitable for any space
- Optional mobile and electric height-adjustable stands
- FREE shipping in the GTA, saving you $500.00.
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1. Teachers struggling to keep pace with AI: report, CTV’s Maralee Caruso learns about a new report highlighting the stressors AI presents for Canadian teachers.
CTV News | February 25, 2026
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2. Canada’s schools need a voice in the country's AI strategy
by Mark Pearmain | Vancouver Sun | March 3, 2026
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Canada’s rapid adoption of artificial intelligence is creating significant challenges for schools, including concerns about student safety, privacy, mental health and the future of learning. While many educators and school boards are already developing their own guidelines and experimenting with responsible AI use, inconsistent approaches across regions risk leaving gaps in protection and policy. A coordinated national AI strategy is needed to ensure clear standards, equitable safeguards and a shared vision for how AI should be integrated into education. Meaningful consultation with educators and school communities is essential so that those working directly with students help shape how AI is governed and implemented in classrooms.
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3. 5 ways Gemini can help students work smarter
Google | February 13, 2026
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A new semester is the ultimate clean slate. It’s a chance to reset your routine, refine your study habits and finally tackle those subjects that stumped you last term.
But you don’t have to do it alone. With Gemini 3, our most intelligent model yet, we’ve rolled out updates designed to help you learn more deeply, from the classroom to the SAT and beyond. Whether you're a high school student prepping for the SAT or JEE or a college student tackling advanced concepts, Gemini is designed for you. Here's how students can use Gemini to get ahead this year.
1. Prep for the SAT and JEE Main with no-cost practice tests
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4. Book Launch: Connections, Academics and Purpose
Is curriculum-first teaching holding students back?
Pickering Collage | February 20, 2026 |
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At a time when Canadian educators are confronting declining student engagement, rapid technological disruption, and increasing mental health concerns, Pickering College Head of School Dr. Cinde Lock is asking a fundamental question:
What if schools are starting in the wrong place?
Her newly launched book, Connections, Academics, and Purpose: Designing the Future of School, challenges the long-standing curriculum-first planning model. Instead of beginning with prescribed outcomes and building lessons toward assessment, Dr. Lock argues that teachers should begin with authentic connection.
“What if we began instead with a real-world issue students could help address? What if learning started with connection and contribution, and curriculum then followed?” Dr. Lock poses. |
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5. Our commitment to make AI training available to all 6 million U.S. educators
Google | March 3, 2026 |
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Google has announced a major initiative to provide free AI training to all 6 million K–12 teachers and higher education faculty in the United States in partnership with ISTE+ASCD. The program will offer short, flexible training modules designed to help educators learn how to use tools like Gemini and NotebookLM to support teaching and student learning. Educators will gain practical strategies such as creating personalized lessons, adapting materials for diverse learners, and helping students build customized study resources. By equipping teachers with AI literacy and micro-credentials, the initiative aims to ensure educators can confidently guide students in using AI responsibly and effectively in the classroom. |
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6. McGill will establish an AI education and research centre in India
Montreal Gazette | March 1, 2026 |
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McGill University has announced plans to establish a new centre of excellence for AI education and research in India to expand its global academic partnerships and international presence. The centre will offer a master’s-level program that combines academic learning with applied industry experience in the rapidly growing AI sector. McGill’s engineering faculty will design the curriculum and oversee research and quality standards, while the Jubilant Bhartia Group will provide land, facilities, and connections to industry partners in India. The centre is expected to launch in May 2027 and initially welcome about 50 students. |
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7. Investing $1 million to strengthen Canada’s cybersecurity talent pipeline
Bell | March 2, 2026 |
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A $1-million investment from Bell Canada will support a new program at the University of New Brunswick to help address major labour shortages in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity across Canada. The initiative aims to train about 150 students each year through intensive training in digitization, AI, and cybersecurity skills needed by industry. Leaders in the sector say Canada currently faces tens of thousands of unfilled cybersecurity roles, making talent development a critical priority for both government and businesses. The program, run through the McKenna Institute, is expected to help build a stronger domestic tech workforce and support Canada’s growing digital economy. |
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8. U of T and AMD launch dedicated AI and computing research lab
U of T | March 4, 2026 |
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The University of Toronto's department of computer science and AMD, a global leader in high-performance computing, have announced a research and development (R&D) lab aimed at developing next-generation technologies in artificial intelligence and computing.
With the launch of the AMD-U of T Research Lab, AMD is investing in 100 research projects over three years and tackling some of the field's most pressing challenges: building energy-efficient AI systems, advancing enterprise-scale data intelligence and developing decentralized methods for training massive AI models across distributed computing clusters. |
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9. OpenAI opens ChatGPT Lab applications for next US and Canada student cohort
ETIH | February 26, 2026
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OpenAI is recruiting undergraduate student organizers in the US and Canada for its ChatGPT Lab, aimed at documenting real-world campus use of AI. The program focuses on everyday academic applications, learning, creativity, and student life, rather than coding or APIs. Organizers will host peer-led events, collect stories, and share insights directly with OpenAI, helping inform product development. Participants receive a six-month ChatGPT Plus subscription, access to a Slack community, and public recognition. Applications for the next cohort close March 1, 2026.
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10. Boston University’s EVAL Collaborative Names Amira Learning Winner of Inaugural EVAL EdTech Evaluation Challenge, Advancing Evidence-Based Literacy Reform in Massachusetts
BU HIC | March 3, 2026
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Boston University’s Evidence-Based AI in Learning (EVAL) Collaborative named Amira Learning the winner of its inaugural EdTech Evaluation Challenge, which aims to identify AI-powered K-12 education tools ready for rigorous independent evaluation. The initiative addresses a major gap in education technology, as fewer than 10 percent of AI tools used in classrooms have been independently validated for their impact on learning outcomes. Amira Learning, an AI reading tutor that listens to students read aloud and provides real-time feedback to improve literacy skills, will now undergo a large-scale randomized controlled trial conducted by a cross-disciplinary research team. The project seeks to produce reliable evidence about the effectiveness of AI tools in education and support policy efforts to improve literacy instruction through evidence-based approaches. |
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Professional Learning Events |
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SXSW EDU
March 9 - 12 2026
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Sport Events Congress 2026
March 9 - 12 2026
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2026 Global Education Coalition Annual Meeting & Country Engagement Day
March 23 - 24 2026
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Dell Technologies Education Summit
March 31, 2026
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ASU + GSV Summit: Learning at the Speed of Light
April 12 - 15 2026
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CoSN2025, Chicago
April 13 - 15 2026
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Mental Health Summit
April 17 - 18 2026
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ULead: The Summit of Educational Leadership
April 19 - 21 2026
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17th Canadian EdTech AI Summit
October 28 - 29 2026
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Teacher/Parent Resources Corner
Essential Edtech Tools
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Students debated and imagined the future of AI in the classroom. Download the tools to learn more.
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Leading Innovation in Education
Advertise your not-for-profit organization or EdTech company, sponsor a Webinar or Canadian EdTech Summit!, share your press releases, career opportunities, and more! To inquire about our EdTech strategy consulting services,
Contact us at robert@mindsharelearning.com
MindShare Learning Digital Marketing & Strategy Playbook 2026.
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About MindShare Learning
MindShare Learning is Canada’s Leading EdTech Media, Marketing & Strategy Consulting Company. We offer expert insight to the learning technology sector to help leaders and learners thrive in the 21st Century global knowledge-based digital economy.
The MindShare Report Mission
Our goal is to keep you current and at the forefront of innovation in Canadian education through our weekly eMag. Be sure to connect with us:
- Contribute a story, or suggest a MindShareTV podcast
- Feedback, or suggestions on how to improve this report
- Advertise, sponsor, or strategic partnerships
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The MindShare Learning Report team consists of the following individuals:
Robert Martellacci, M.A. Ed Tech., Founder & Chief Digital Publisher
Dr. Ron Owston, PhD., Research Associate, University Professor Emeritus, Former Dean of Faculty, York University
Chris Kim, PhD., Research Associate, Software Engineer, software studio, Fresco Industries
Timothy Gard, B.Ed., OCT, M.A, Chief Learning Strategist
Hanan Mousa, M.B.A, B.C. S. Digital Media Specialist
MindShare Advisory Board
The MindShare Report is grateful for the guidance and support provided by our esteemed advisory board. Members include:
Laurent Burman, M.B.A., Chief Commercial Officer, Sound Commerce
Kevin Custer, Founding Principal, Arc Capital Development
Chip Fesko, Principal, Chip Fesko & Associates
Ian Fogarty, Educator, Riverview High School | MindShare National Video Challenge Award Winner
Dr. GuyTetrault, Award Winning Sun West School Division, Director & CEO (Retired)
Michael Furdyk, Co-Founder, TakingItGlobal
Dr. Eric Hamilton, Associate Dean of Education, Pepperdine University, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Maxim Jean-Louis, CEO, Contact North/Contact Nord,
Gary Kern, Principal, St. George's School
Dr. Susanne Lajoie, Professor, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University
David Marsi, Senior Manager Training Initiatives, ScotiaMcLeod
Mirella Rossi, Superintendent of Education, Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
Sandra Chow, Award Winning Teacher, Toronto District School Board (On Leave serving as a Director of Technology & Instruction at a School in China
Ron Sedran, MD, Equity Capital Markets, Canaccord Adams
About The MindShare Learning Report™
Canada's Learning & Technology eMagazine.
Our mission is to provide insight and inspiration to K12 and Post-Secondary education and industry leaders by sharing the latest trends and innovative best practices and success stories in the Canadian education market space and beyond.
Editorial content is welcomed for our weekly and monthly EdTech Reports.
Please forward your news releases as web links to
info@mindsharelearning.com
Advertising opportunities are available, please contact,
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Consulting opportunities are available, please contact:
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Annual subscriptions to the MindShare Learning Report can be purchased at $99 CDN
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Our Valued Clients and Partners |
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