Chuck Bumgardner | Ep. 178

Helping Students Think Biblically About AI

“One of the biggest challenges we’re going to face is a relational one, where students are substituting interaction with AI for personal interaction with people.” - Chuck Bumgardner

“Technology in and of itself is not neutral.” - Chuck Bumgardner

AI is here. The question is not whether students will encounter it, but how we will help them think about it biblically.

In this episode, Jenny Copeland sits down with Chuck Bumgardner, Biblical Worldview Specialist at BJU Press, to talk about the brand-new Be CyberSmart AI lessons and why Christian educators cannot afford to stay silent on artificial intelligence.

Schools are still all over the board when it comes to AI. Some are banning it, some are embracing it, and many are simply trying to figure out what faithfulness and wisdom look like in the middle of a rapidly changing technology landscape. In this conversation, Chuck helps bring clarity to that challenge by showing how a biblical worldview gives us a framework for thinking about AI, technology, learning, relationships, and spiritual formation.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why Christian schools need to talk openly and intentionally about AI

• How a biblical worldview shapes the way we think about technology

• Why AI is not as morally neutral as many assume

• The biggest spiritual risks students face when using AI

• How technology can amplify ability while also weakening important skills

• Why relationships, discipleship, and spiritual formation matter in conversations about AI

• How students can use AI to support learning without replacing their own thinking

• A look inside the new Be CyberSmart AI lessons

• One mindset students need now to be ready for the future of technology

• Chuck’s practical advice for Christian educators trying to navigate AI wisely

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you.

Go do what God has called you to do!

Resources Mentioned

• Be CyberSmart AI Lessons from BJU Press Available for BJU Press users in Trove on June 1

• BJU Press Biblical Worldview: https://www.bjupress.com/biblical-worldview-student-edition%2C-2nd-ed./5637430740.p

• From the Garden to the City: https://a.co/d/058vl5Zh

“Christian schools exist to say, ‘Here’s something in your life… and you need to understand the nature of this thing and how you should approach it. And we’re here to help.’” - Chuck Bumgardner

About Our Guest:

Chuck Bumgardner

Dr. Chuck Bumgardner is a Biblical Worldview Specialist at BJU Press, helping writers of ELA and technology curriculum implement biblical worldview shaping into their work. He and his wife Megan minister in their local church in a number of areas including music ministry and teaching. Chuck has a deep interest in hymnology and particularly enjoys leading congregational worship. He and his wife are almost empty-nesters and enjoy spending time with their four (soon to be five!) grandchildren.

Podcast Sponsor:

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.