Three-part interview series continues with a discussion on artificial intelligence, social media and the future of learning.
HOUSTON — “Print articles about it.”
That was State Rep. Jolanda Jones’ response when asked how ethnic media organizations can help families better understand the opportunities and challenges artificial intelligence and social media present for today’s youth.
The remark came during the second installment of Houston Community Media’s Who Cares About Youth? interview series, where Jones encouraged journalists to continue informing the public while urging parents and educators to help students rely less on artificial intelligence and more on the thinking skills she believes remain essential to lifelong learning.
Jones’ discussion followed State Rep. Gene Wu’s opening conversation on juvenile justice and early intervention. The three-part series concludes with an upcoming interview featuring State Rep. Penny Morales Shaw, continuing Houston Community Media’s examination of issues affecting children and teenagers across Texas.
Technology as a Tool
Throughout the discussion, Jones emphasized that her concerns are not rooted in opposition to artificial intelligence itself. Instead, she said technology should support learning rather than replace the process of developing ideas independently.
“The only way for it to work is for us to do the work first, and then let AI look at it. Not the other way around,” she said.
She returned often to what she considers one of education’s most important goals.
“You have to be able to critically think,” Jones said.
Raising Confident Young People
Jones also discussed the influence social media can have on children’s self-image, encouraging families to help young people build confidence rooted in self-awareness rather than online comparisons.
“I think that the best way to be your best self is to honestly assess who you are,” she said.
Reflecting on lessons passed down by her grandmother, Jones said practicing foundational skills remains just as important today as new technologies continue to emerge.
“My grandmother has taught me for a long time that when you stop using it, you lose it,” she said.
Jones said those experiences taught her that perseverance and independent learning remain essential parts of preparing young people for adulthood, regardless of how technology continues to evolve.
“There is a benefit to struggle,” she said.
A Story That Doesn’t End Here
For journalists covering education, technology and community issues, Jones’ remarks extended well beyond artificial intelligence.
Her discussion raised questions about how schools are incorporating AI into instruction, how parents are helping children navigate social media, and how communities can embrace innovation while preserving the foundational skills students need to succeed.
As HCoM’s series moves toward its final conversation with Rep. Morales Shaw, the discussions continue to provide journalists with new sources, fresh perspectives and meaningful story ideas about the issues shaping the next generation of Texans.
