© 2026 South Carolina Public Radio
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
SC Public Radio is currently experiencing technical difficulties with streaming services. Our team is working to resolve these issues.

Teachable Moments: AI and reading

TRANSCRIPT:

For South Carolina Public Radio, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris from the College of Charleston. This is Teachable Moments, a minute of education for students and parents.    

AI tools are increasingly being used to read aloud to children, becoming part of daily routines at home and in school. For busy families, it’s easy to see the appeal, but experts warn that something gets lost when a machine takes over story time.

Reading with a child fosters warmth, attention, and physical connection that builds language and security.

Researchers studying AI in early‑childhood education emphasize that while digital tools can support learning, they can’t replace the one‑on‑one interactions children need. We don’t have all the answers yet, but we do know this — even on the busiest days, making time to connect with children through stories matters.

For the College of Charleston, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris.

Rénard Harris is an Associate Professor of Management in the School of Business at the College of Charleston (2022-present). He teaches courses in Leadership and courses in Managing Diversity. His leadership course focuses on the dynamics of effective leadership, positive influence, and clear vision. His Managing Diversity course focuses on exploring culture, experiences, and identity as asset and resource of those less heard and less seen.