What's This Episode About?

IIn this episode, we’ll explore how Perplexity can become your go-to research assistant, helping you quickly and accurately gather information to better inform your overall planning and documentation and connect to frameworks like the Australian EYLF.

I’ll share how Perplexity compares to other AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude, then give you practical examples of how you can use it to clarify and improve your understanding of educational theories and frameworks, making your job as an educator more efficient and less overwhelming. 

Perfect for new and experienced educators who want reliable, source-linked information without the research overwhelm.

The Quick Takeaway - Essential Learning

What makes Perplexity different from other AI tools - understand how this research assistant provides evidence-backed answers with source verification, eliminating the guesswork from fact-checking

How to use the revolutionary follow-up question feature - discover how to dive deeper into topics without starting new searches, maintaining focus and building comprehensive understanding progressively

Specific strategies for comparing educational theorists - learn exact prompts for exploring Piaget vs Vygotsky, Montessori vs Reggio Emilia, and other key comparisons with practical applications

Methods for connecting theory to the Early Years Learning Framework - explore how to link Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development to intentional teaching and other theory-to-practice connections

Practical applications across different early childhood settings - from family daycare mixed-age groups to nursery attachment theory applications, with specific examples for each context

Research techniques that save time and maintain quality - avoid information overload whilst accessing credible, academic-quality sources that support professional decision-making

AI Prompts You Can Try from This Episode:

Prompt 1: Theory Comparison and Practical Application

What is play-based learning and how does it connect to the Early Years Learning Framework?

Use this when: You need a comprehensive overview of educational concepts connected to your specific framework

Why it works: Provides structured information with clear links between theory and practice, plus suggested follow-up questions for deeper exploration

Prompt 2: Comparing Key Theorists

Compare Piaget and Vygotsky on [cognitive development]. How can I use these theories in my planning for [preschool-aged children]?

Use this when: You need to understand differences between major theorists and their practical applications for your specific age group

Why it works: Delivers side-by-side comparisons with practical examples tailored to your context, eliminating academic jargon

Prompt 3: Connecting Theory to Framework Requirements

How does Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development relate to the EYLF principle of intentional teaching?

Use this when: You need to demonstrate theoretical understanding in planning documentation or professional development

Why it works: Creates clear connections between complex theories and framework requirements with specific implementation strategies