Understanding AI Context Windows in 2026

Stop Re-Introducing Yourself to AI

Most people open ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini and start from scratch every single time. In this episode, Rob breaks down why that's a trap — and how custom instructions, memory, and a simple AI hack can transform your results in minutes. The bridge between learning AI and living with AI.

AI Gets Easier the More You Use It

Think prompt engineering is the hardest part of AI? Think again. In this episode, we dive into the 'compound effect' of AI usage and the secret feature changing how we interact with chatbots: persistent memory. Discover why the learning curve is temporary and how tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini actually start learning *you* over time, turning exhausting data entry into seamless collaboration. Key Takeaways: * The Learning Curve is Front-Loaded: Prompt engineering matters most on day one. * Memory is the Game Changer: Major platforms carry context across sessions. * The Compound Effect: Consistent use builds a relationship with the AI. * The New Must-Have Skill: Knowing when to deploy AI and building long-term context.

Understanding AI Context Windows in 2026

A deep dive into AI context windows for educators and administrators. We compare Google Gemini 3 Pro (1-2M tokens), OpenAI GPT-5.2 (16K-196K tokens), and Anthropic Claude Opus/Sonnet 4.6 (200K-1M tokens). Learn what context windows mean for your workflow, how to match the model to your task, and why bigger isn't always better. Show Notes: What is a context window and why it matters; Token math: 200K tokens = ~150,000 words; Model comparison: Gemini 3 Pro, GPT-5.2, Claude Opus 4.6, Claude Sonnet 4.6; Practical advice for educators working with long documents; Context compaction and effective vs advertised windows

Building My AI Research Team

This week I built an AI system to help me be a better CIO — and there are lessons here for how we approach technology in our districts. Topics Covered: * Setting up automated daily research briefings * COPPA compliance deadline: April 22, 2026 * Shadow IT in education and approved tool strategy * Matching AI tools to tasks (cost optimization) * Agentic AI trends in K-12 * Leadership filter: Does it help teachers teach or kids learn? Key Dates: * April 22, 2026 — COPPA compliance deadline * March 9-12, 2026 — SXSWedu, Austin TX * April 13-15, 2026 — CoSN, Chicago IL

Propellus Tech Summit 2025 Preview

In this special preview episode, we’re giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what’s in store for attendees at the Propellus Tech Summit 2025! Recorded for registered participants, this episode walks you through the session formats, keynote highlights, featured partner sessions, and all the high-energy moments waiting for you at Wichita State University on May 28–29. Hear what makes this event different—from Seesaw-sponsored poster sessions and deep dive workshops to optional lunchtime activities like the Mystery Box Challenge and Teacher Trivia Showdown. You’ll also get tips for maximizing your experience, earning graduate credit, and building your personalized schedule in Sched. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or tech-loving administrator, this episode will help you hit the ground running. 🔗 Learn more at: https://propellus2025.sched.com [https://propellus2025.sched.com]