Sprint to Success with Design Thinking

In this episode, we discuss the nuances of embracing change, particularly in an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI). We explore the concept of adaptability in different facets of life and how our response to change can vary across personal and professional realms. The focus is on understanding and adapting to AI, a phenomenon that, much like the evolution of smartphones, is rapidly reshaping our world.   Key Points: Personal vs. Professional Adaptability: Understanding how we can embrace change differently in work and personal life, and why this dichotomy is normal. AI's Pervasive Impact: Acknowledging AI as a present reality, influencing every aspect of life, from work to social interactions. Dealing with AI's Rapid Integration: The challenges of adapting to the pace of change driven by AI and its impact on familiar landscapes and routines. Opportunities in AI-Driven Change: Viewing AI not as a hurdle but as an opportunity for growth, innovation, and enhanced quality of life. Lifelong Learning and AI: Emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in an AI reshaped world.   Daily SPARK Prompt:   Hi! I'm looking to embrace change and adapt in a world increasingly influenced by AI. I need your help to develop a strategy for this transition. Here's my SPARK scenario:   Situation: AI is becoming a significant part of my life, influencing how I work and interact with the world. My current situation involves [describe your current interaction with AI, whether at work, home, or in personal pursuits].   Problem: I often find myself feeling [describe feelings such as overwhelmed, hesitant, or resistant] about the rapid pace of change brought by AI. There are areas in my life, such as [mention specific areas or situations], where I struggle to adapt to these new technologies.   Aspiration: Despite these challenges, my aspiration is to see AI-driven changes as opportunities for growth and innovation. I want to be more open-minded and curious, embracing AI as a tool for enhancing my life and work.   Results: Ideally, adapting to AI should lead to [describe desired outcomes, such as improved efficiency, new skills, or a more enriched life].   Kismet: What might I be overlooking in my approach to embracing AI and its changes? Could you provide specific strategies or actions that would help me adapt more effectively to the integration of AI in my life? How can I shift my perspective to view AI tools as allies rather than obstacles in my professional and personal development?   Connect with Sabba:  For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ   Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now    

Overview: Today we examine the complex relationship between technological change, particularly AI, and personal identity. We reflect on insights from change management expert Bree Goff and authors like James Clear and Kai-Fu Lee. The focus is on understanding how AI impacts our sense of self and how to adapt while preserving our unique human qualities.   Daily SPARK Prompt (edit, cut and paste this into your favorite AI tool) Tip: If you don't pay for GPT4, try Co-Pilot by Microsoft (it's free!) Hi! I'm reflecting on my identity in the rapidly evolving AI era and need your assistance. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: In a world where AI is redefining traditional roles and tasks, I am exploring who I want to be. My current situation involves [describe your current interaction with AI and how it impacts your daily life]. Problem: I feel [describe any concerns or feelings of loss/displacement due to AI]. I'm struggling to understand how AI affects my sense of self and how to adapt without losing my unique identity. Aspiration: I aspire to use AI as a tool to enhance, not replace, my identity. Inspired by James Clear's 'Atomic Habits,' I want to focus on who I wish to become, emphasizing my [mention specific human qualities like creativity, empathy, etc.]. Results: Ideally, by embracing AI in this way, I hope to [describe the positive changes you wish to see, such as becoming more adaptable, resilient, or creative]. Kismet: Can you provide 5 strategies or daily habits that would help me reinforce my unique identity in this AI-driven world? And, importantly, what might I be missing in this approach?       Key Points: Change and Loss of Control: Bree Goff's perspective on how people don't resist change but resist loss, especially relevant in the era of AI. AI's Personal Impact: The infiltration of AI into aspects of life traditionally unique to humans, challenging our roles, tasks, and creativity. The Serenity Prayer's Relevance: Using this prayer to accept what we can't change and to find the courage and wisdom to adapt. Identity and Habits: Drawing from James Clear's 'Atomic Habits,' focusing on who we wish to become in the AI era and the importance of self-identity in times of change. AI as a Mirror: Using AI to reflect on and enhance human qualities like empathy and creativity, rather than replacing them.   Let's Connect and Keep the Learning Going Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ    

Today, we're embracing the spirit of new beginnings. As we bid farewell to one year and welcome another, we delve into the beauty and excitement of starting anew. This episode is a celebration of resets, new paths, and open doors to fresh opportunities. Key Topics The Beauty of New Beginnings: Understanding the importance of fresh starts and their potential to transform our lives. Learning from 'Atomic Habits': Insights from James Clear about how small decisions can lead to significant changes. Overcoming the Fear of the New: Addressing the challenges of stepping out of our comfort zone to embrace new beginnings. Daily SPARK (Edit, cut, and paste the prompt template into your favorite AI tool): Hi, I'm preparing to embrace new beginnings in my life. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I'm facing a new beginning in [describe the area of new beginning, such as a career change, moving to a new city, starting a new relationship or hobby, etc.]. Problem: I feel apprehensive about this change because [describe your fears or concerns, such as fear of the unknown, potential challenges, doubts about your abilities, etc.]. Aspiration: I aspire to embrace this new beginning with optimism and openness, hoping to [describe what you hope to achieve or experience, such as personal growth, new opportunities, happiness, etc.]. Results: By successfully embracing this new beginning, I expect to [describe the positive outcomes you envision, such as developing new skills, building new relationships, finding fulfillment, etc.]. Could you provide some strategies or steps to help me confidently navigate this new beginning and make the most of the opportunities it presents?   Connect with Sabba: For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now

In this episode, we explore the distinction between setting intentions and making resolutions. While resolutions are often firm decisions about what to do or not do, intentions focus on the journey, experience, and emotions, rooted in our values. Drawing insights from "Atomic Habits," we discuss how our success is less about the goals we set and more about the systems and intentions we establish. Key Points: Intentions vs. Resolutions: Intentions are about the journey and experience, emphasizing how we want to feel, while resolutions are more goal-oriented and rigid. The Role of Systems: Success is influenced more by the systems and daily practices we put in place than by the goals themselves. Aligning with Values: By setting intentions, we ensure our actions, especially in a technology-driven world, are meaningful and resonate with our deepest values. Redefining Common Goals: For example, changing 'I want to lose weight' to 'I intend to lead a healthier lifestyle' shifts the focus from the scale to overall well-being. Daily Spark (Edit, cut, and paste this prompt template into your favorite AI tool): Hello ChatGPT, I'm focusing on setting intentions for the new year rather than resolutions. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: This year, instead of traditional resolutions, I want to set intentions that align with my deeper values. For example, rather than setting a goal to [specific resolution], I want to focus on [related intention]. Problem: In the past, I've found resolutions like [specific resolution] to be limiting or unfulfilling because [reasons why the resolution wasn't effective]. Aspiration: My intention is to create a more meaningful and fulfilling experience by [describe how the intention is more aligned with your values or lifestyle]. Results: I envision that living by this intention will [describe the expected positive changes or outcomes, such as greater happiness, fulfillment, or personal growth]. Can you walk me through setting intentions for 2024   Connect with Sabba:  For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ   Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now    

In today's episode of 'Your Daily SPARK,' we chat about the emotion of gratitude, a powerful tool that can transform our perspective and enhance our well-being. Gratitude goes beyond saying 'thank you'—it's about recognizing and appreciating the value in our lives, often found in the simplest moments. Inspired by Dr. Laurie Santos' insights from "The Happiness Lab" podcast, we discuss how the practice of gratitude can significantly improve our well-being. Key Points: Understanding Gratitude: It's about acknowledging the good in our lives, which can often be overlooked in our busy routines. Benefits of Gratitude: Research shows that gratitude is linked to greater happiness, helping us to feel more positive emotions, enjoy good experiences more fully, and build stronger relationships. Shifting Perspective: By focusing on gratitude, we can change our view of the world, noticing beauty and goodness that might otherwise be missed. Simple Practices: The act of writing down 3-5 things we're grateful for each day can have a profound impact on our overall happiness and perspective.   Daily Spark (Edit this prompt and then cut and paste it into your favorite AI tool, mine is ChatGPT) Situation: This past year, things I am grateful for include [list three specific things - can be experiences, achievements, personal relationships, or simple joys]. Problem: Despite these positives, they were often overshadowed by [explain what might have overshadowed these positive aspects, such as busyness, stress, focusing on the negatives]. Aspiration: I aim to focus more on these positives and cultivate a habit of gratitude. Results: By practicing gratitude, I hope to [describe the positive impacts you expect, such as improved mood, better relationships, increased satisfaction]. Can you share 4 strategies for me to get started.      Connect with Sabba For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ   Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now    

Today we are looking at lessons learned from a year in review. Join me on a journey of introspection, looking back at the past twelve months. This episode is a treasure hunt for wisdom and insight, where we celebrate our achievements and learn from our regrets. We discuss how to use these reflections as a compass for future choices and growth. Key Points: Celebrating Successes: Recognize and appreciate the achievements that have made us proud and happy over the year. Learning from Regrets: Understand that moments of regret are not just about what we missed but are powerful lessons in timing, opportunity, and the courage to act. The Power of Regret: Inspired by Daniel Pink's book, we explore how regret can be a beneficial tool for decision-making, performance improvement, and fostering a sense of meaning. Four Types of Regret: Foundation, Boldness, Moral, and Connection. These categories help us understand and categorize our regrets to learn from them effectively.   Daily Spark: Copy/Paste/Edit this Daily SPARK prompt with your favorite AI tool (I use ChatGPT) Hi! Im going to share my year in review with you and look forward to your strategies. Situation: This past year, one of my achievements were [describe a specific achievement], and one thing I regret is [describe a specific regret]. Problem: I feel [describe emotions related to the achievement] about my achievement and [describe emotions related to the regret] about my regret. Aspiration: I want to use these experiences to [describe what you aspire to do or change next year]. Results: By addressing my regret and building on my achievement, I hope to [describe the positive outcomes you expect]. Can you share 4 strategies to help me get started.   For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ   Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now

  In this episode Sabba let's discuss an essential aspect of personal growth: stepping out of our comfort zones. We explore how venturing into the 'learning zone'—the space just outside our comfort zones—can foster significant personal development, skill enhancement, and confidence building. Key Topics: Understanding the Comfort and Learning Zones: The concept of the comfort zone as a familiar yet stagnating space, and the learning zone as the area where real growth and development occur. Overcoming Fear to Embrace Growth: Addressing the natural fear of leaving the comfort zone and strategies to transition into the learning zone for personal and professional advancement. Examples of Great Innovators and Leaders: How successful individuals have achieved greatness by constantly pushing their boundaries and living in their learning zones. Daily Spark - Copy, paste, and edit this prompt in ChatGPT Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to step out of my comfort zone. Here's my scenario: Situation: I've been comfortable with [current comfortable situation]. Problem: Staying in this comfort zone is causing [specific limitations or issues]. Aspiration: I want to step out into my learning zone by [specific actions or changes]. Results: Making this change could lead to [expected growth or opportunities]. Can you suggest strategies or ideas to help me transition from my comfort zone to my learning zone? To Learn More Connect with Sabba and Check Out Her Free Class on ChatGPT Dr. Sabba Quidwai's Contact Details: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Connect Here Twitter: Follow Here Instagram: Follow Here Free Class: "Discover how to break out of your comfort zone and unlock your potential with AI. Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now    

In this episode, we explore the concept of resilience, often described as the ultimate skill that thrives through experience and is crucial in our rapidly changing world. Resilience is likened to a muscle that strengthens with exercise. Our focus is on how to develop this resilience muscle and utilize it effectively. Key Topics: Understanding Resilience as a Muscle: The analogy of resilience being like a physical muscle, which gets stronger with each challenge we overcome. The Role of Challenges in Building Resilience: How facing obstacles in personal and professional life acts as 'weights' that our resilience muscle needs to lift, thereby strengthening it. Mental Toughness and Perseverance: The importance of mental resilience, as seen in athletes, who not only work on physical abilities but also on mental toughness. Daily Spark (Cut, paste, and edit this prompt in ChatGPT) Hey ChatGPT, I'm working on cultivating resilience in response to life's challenges. Here's my scenario: Situation: I recently faced [specific challenge or hardship]. Problem: The challenge made me feel [emotions/reactions it evoked]. Aspiration: I aim to use this challenge to become more resilient by [desired growth or learning]. Results: By building resilience, I hope to achieve [envisaged positive outcomes]. Could you provide some guidance or steps on building resilience in this context? Reflective Perspective: Consider how viewing challenges as opportunities for resilience training can empower your response to future obstacles. Remember, resilience isn't inherent; it's built through experience and consistent effort. To Learn More Connect with Sabba and Check Out Her Free Class on ChatGPT Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Connect Here Twitter: Follow Here Instagram: Follow Here Join Dr. Sabba Quidwai's class '3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI'." Watch Now

Today's episode of the Daily SPARK focuses on a crucial, yet often overlooked aspect of personal and professional development: the art of reflection. Dr. Sabba Quidwai delves into how transforming our approach to reflection can lead to significant growth and learning, inspired by the research of Amy Edmonson on psychological safety. Key Topics: The Importance of Reflection: Understanding reflection not as a focus on failures but as a vital tool for learning from experiences. Psychological Safety: Insights from Amy Edmonson's research, emphasizing the value of a safe environment for open dialogue on failures and ideas. Turning Setbacks into Success: How viewing challenges as opportunities for growth can lead to personal and professional achievements. Your Daily SPARK: (cut and paste the prompt below into ChatGPT) Hey ChatGPT, I want to develop the power of reflection. Here's my scenario: Situation: I recently experienced [specific event or decision]. Problem: This led to [emotions or thoughts about the experience]. Aspiration: I want to reflect on this to learn and grow. Results: This reflection could help me [how you hope to benefit or grow]. Can you suggest a process or questions for a reflective exercise on this situation?   To learn more connect with Sabba and check out her free class on ChatGPT: Join Sabba in her free class "3 Steps to Secure Your Career Future with AI". Sign up here. Connect with Sabba Quidwai on LinkedIn. Follow her updates on Twitter and Instagram. Discover more at designingschools.org. Remember, reflection is not just about looking back; it's a forward-moving force that shapes our path to success. Keep reflecting, keep learning, and keep growing!

Today's episode discusses personal growth by stepping out of our comfort zones. We explore the 'learning zone,' a space just outside our comfort zones where true growth, skill development, and confidence building occur. It's about taking small, ongoing steps towards becoming the best versions of ourselves as lifelong learners. Key Points: The Learning Zone: This is where we find new challenges that are stimulating but not overwhelming. It's a space for growth, skill development, and confidence building. Overcoming Fear: The fear of the unknown and new challenges can keep us stuck in our comfort zones, hindering our growth and leaving us feeling frustrated and stagnant. Small Steps to Greatness: The journey from comfort to learning involves small, manageable steps, not leaps into chaos. This gradual approach allows for sustainable growth and learning. Impactful Quotes: "Learning and growth happen just outside our comfort zones." "Stepping out of our comfort zone doesn't mean leaping into chaos, but rather moving into a space where we can grow." "The journey to personal growth isn't about staying safe in our comfort zone. It's about daring to step into the learning zone where our true potential lies." Daily Spark: Reflect on an area where you've been staying within your comfort zone. Acknowledge your fears and imagine transitioning into your learning zone. Consider the new skills and experiences you could gain, like improved communication skills and enhanced self-esteem from public speaking. Sample Prompt:  Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to step out of my comfort zone. Here's my scenario: Situation: I've been comfortable with [current comfortable situation]. Problem: Staying in this comfort zone is causing [specific limitations or issues]. Aspiration: I want to step out into my learning zone by [specific actions or changes]. Results: Making this change could lead to [expected growth or opportunities]. Kismet: Can you suggest strategies or ideas to help me transition from my comfort zone to my learning zone? Final Thoughts: Embrace the challenge of stepping out of your comfort zone. It's not just about taking risks; it's about thoughtful growth and finding the confidence to explore and learn in new spaces. For more insights and inspiration, follow Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: designingschools.org LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Sabba Quidwai invites the audience to explore the potential of the question 'What if...' in driving innovation and reshaping industries. By examining the transformative stories of companies like Netflix, Uber, and Airbnb, she illustrates how challenging conventional norms can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Key Highlights: The Power of 'What If': Dr. Quidwai emphasizes the significance of this simple yet powerful question in sparking innovation, as seen in the evolution of Netflix and its departure from traditional movie rental models. Examples of Industry Transformation: The episode explores how outsider perspectives in industries like movie rentals, publishing, transportation, and hospitality have led to revolutionary business models, changing the way we interact with these services. Challenging Unwritten Rules: A focus on how our personal and professional lives are often governed by unwritten rules and the importance of questioning these norms to unlock creativity and potential. Impactful Quotes: "Often, the most significant innovations don't come from within an industry but from outside." "By asking 'What if…,' we give ourselves permission to think outside the box, to envision better and more efficient ways of doing things." Daily SPARK Scenario: Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to innovate and improve my routines. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I've identified a routine/rule in my [life/work], which is [describe the routine or rule]. Problem: This routine/rule is limiting because [explain the limitations or inefficiencies]. Aspiration: I'm asking myself, 'What if I changed this? What innovative approach could I try instead? Results: If I successfully implement this change, I envision [describe the potential improvements or breakthroughs]. Kismet: Can you help me brainstorm some creative ways or steps to alter this routine/rule for better outcomes?   SPARK Example Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking to innovate and improve my routines. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: In my daily work, I have a routine of checking emails first thing in the morning, which often leads to an unproductive start. Problem: This routine is limiting because it consumes a lot of time and often derails my focus from more important tasks. Aspiration*: I'm asking myself, 'What if I changed this routine? What if I started my day with a creative task or a planning session instead?' Results: If I successfully shift my routine, I envision a more productive morning, better time management, and an overall increase in daily work satisfaction. Kismet: Can you help me brainstorm some creative ways or steps to adjust my morning routine for a more efficient and focused start to the day? Closing Thoughts: Dr. Quidwai invites listeners to share their 'What if...' scenarios and innovative ideas. These shared experiences could inspire others in future episodes and foster a community of forward-thinking individuals. Connect with Dr. Sabba Quidwai: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Website

Overview: In this episode of 'Daily Spark,' Dr. Sabba Quidwai talks about 'Breaking the Rules.' She discusses the transformative power of trust and relationships in challenging the status quo, inspired by Satya Nadella's culture of learning at Microsoft and Simon Sinek's insights in 'The Infinite Game.' Key Highlights: Challenging the Status Quo: Dr. Quidwai emphasizes the significance of creating a safe environment for trying new things, asking questions, and sharing ideas. She poses an introspective scale of 1-5 to assess personal and organizational cultures. Rethinking Rules in Culture: The episode draws on the contrast between weak cultures clinging to rules and strong cultures thriving on relationships and trust, citing Simon Sinek's observations. The Courage to Innovate: The discussion highlights how the most innovative leaders often share the trait of breaking rules when they no longer serve their purpose, underlining the importance of trust, empathy, and connection. Impactful Quotes: "It's not about throwing all rules out the window, but rather, discerning which rules support our growth and which ones hold us back." "Imagine a world where we measure success not by our adherence to rules, but by the strength of our relationships and the bravery of our innovations." Today's SPARK Scenario: Hey ChatGPT, I'm exploring ways to challenge and grow beyond existing boundaries. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I have identified a rule in my [work/personal life], which is [describe the rule]. Problem: I feel this rule is limiting my [creativity/growth] because [explain how the rule is restrictive or limiting]. Aspiration: I imagine a scenario where breaking this rule could lead to [greater trust/connection/innovation]. Results: If I successfully shift away from this rule, I envision [describe the positive outcomes you anticipate, such as improved relationships, innovative solutions, personal growth, etc.].Kismet: Could you suggest some approaches or strategies for how I might effectively challenge and potentially change this rule?   Example SPARK Hey ChatGPT, I'm exploring ways to challenge and grow beyond existing boundaries. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: In my workplace, there's an unwritten rule that we shouldn't share project ideas outside of our department. Problem: This rule limits our team's creativity and growth because it restricts cross-departmental collaboration and fresh perspectives. Aspiration: I imagine a scenario where breaking this rule could lead to a more collaborative and innovative work environment. Results: If we successfully foster cross-departmental collaboration, I envision outcomes like more innovative project ideas, improved team dynamics, and a more inclusive workplace culture.  Kismet: Could you suggest some approaches or strategies for how I might encourage my team and management to reconsider this rule? Closing Thoughts: Dr. Quidwai encourages listeners to challenge a rule that no longer serves them and to share their stories, promising that the rules in our fast-changing world need to change too. She invites listeners to connect and share their experiences, potentially featuring them in a weekly reflection episode. Connect with Dr. Sabba Quidwai: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Website

Overview: In this episode of 'Daily Spark,' Dr. Sabba Quidwai explores the concept of "Learning to Learn Again." This journey is about reigniting the childlike curiosity we often lose as we grow older, and understanding its importance in an AI-driven world. Download Your Free ChatGPT Guide Key Points: The Power of Childlike Curiosity: Dr. Quidwai emphasizes the organic approach to learning seen in children, like her young nephew and niece, which is essential for creativity and innovation. She highlights how this innate curiosity is the foundation of human prompts necessary for AI. Challenges in Adult Learning: The episode delves into the constraints adults face, as shaped by societal expectations and rigid education systems. It references Microsoft's report, noting how 68% of people lack time for critical introspection, leading to barriers in exploring and reaching full potential. Breaking Free and Rekindling Joy: Dr. Quidwai urges listeners to rediscover the joy and wonder of learning. She suggests starting each day with a fresh perspective, free from past setbacks or preconceived notions. Inspiration from Leaders: The story of Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, is highlighted. His commitment to continuous learning and instilling a growth mindset in Microsoft showcases the transformative power of staying adaptable and innovative. Impactful Quotes: "AI always needs a human prompt. And the best prompts come from this innate curiosity." - Dr. Sabba Quidwai. "Imagine if our education fostered and amplified these inherent strengths, skills, and dispositions instead of letting them die away." - Dr. Sabba Quidwai. "In our dynamic, AI-centric world, where change is the only constant, embracing this ethos of perpetual learning is not just beneficial – it's essential." - Dr. Sabba Quidwai. Envisioned Results: Dr. Quidwai encourages listeners to embrace lifelong learning in 2024, with the understanding that learning is a social activity. She invites listeners to explore new possibilities, be it through podcasts, new connections, hobbies, languages, or professional upskilling. SPARK Prompt Template for "Learning to Learn": "Hey ChatGPT, I'm focusing on personal growth and I'd like some guidance. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I want to improve in [identify the specific area or skill, like public speaking, a new language, coding, etc.]. Problem: I'm hesitant because [explain your fears or hesitations, like fear of failure, not having enough time, feeling too old to learn, etc.]. Aspiration: My goal is to approach this learning process with [describe the enthusiasm or mindset you wish to have, like a child's curiosity, eagerness to grow, etc.]. Results: Successfully learning this skill will help me [describe the potential benefits or growth outcomes, such as advancing in my career, feeling more confident, personal satisfaction, etc.].   Example SPARK Scenario: "Hey ChatGPT, I'm focusing on personal growth and I'd like some guidance. Here's my SPARK scenario: Situation: I want to improve my ability to speak Spanish. I've always been interested in the language and culture, and I think it could open up more travel and job opportunities. Problem: I'm hesitant because I've never been great at languages, and I'm worried I'm too old to start learning something so complex. Aspiration: My goal is to approach learning Spanish with the same excitement and lack of self-consciousness that a child has when they're learning to speak for the first time. Results: Successfully learning Spanish will help me feel more connected to a culture I love, boost my resume, and give me the confidence to travel to Spanish-speaking countries. Kismet: Could you provide some steps or strategies to help me begin this journey effectively? Dr. Quidwai reminds listeners that their unique human advantage in an AI world stems from curiosity. Connect with the Speaker: Dr. Sabba Quidwai's LinkedIn Dr. Sabba Quidwai's Website Dr. Sabba Quidwai on Twitter Dr. Sabba Quidwai on Instagram Your feedback and stories are welcome. Share your thoughts and experiences with Dr. Quidwai via email or social media to possibly feature in the weekly reflection episode.

Episode Overview: Welcome to the first episode of 'Daily Spark,' where Dr. Sabba Quidwai guides us in strengthening our human advantage in an AI-dominated world. This episode focuses on overcoming the 'Blank Canvas' anxiety and leveraging design thinking to transform challenges into opportunities. Today's Prompt (Edit, cut, and paste this prompt into any AI tool, works best with ChatGPT4): Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking at 2024 as a blank canvas for my personal and professional development.  My current challenge is [describe a specific area you want to improve or a goal you want to achieve]. My aspiration for the new year is to [outline what you hope to accomplish or develop].  Achieving this would mean [explain the significance of this goal for you, like gaining new skills, career advancement, personal fulfillment, etc.]. Can you help me with 4 specific steps or ideas to begin this journey effectively?   Prompt Example: Hey ChatGPT, I'm looking at 2024 as a blank canvas for my personal and professional development. My current challenge is enhancing my public speaking skills. I've always been a bit shy and hesitant when speaking in front of groups, and this has held me back in my career. My aspiration for the new year is to become more confident and effective as a public speaker. I want to be able to present my ideas clearly and persuasively in meetings and at conferences. Achieving this would mean a great deal to me; it would not only boost my career prospects but also increase my self-confidence and ability to influence positive changes in my work. Can you help me with 4 specific steps or ideas to begin this journey effectively?   Key Highlights: Design Thinking as Your Human Advantage: Design thinking, a method and mindset for reframing challenges, starts with the question, "How might we?" It's crucial for asking the right questions, especially when using AI tools. The Power of the Right Prompt: Before prompting AI tools like ChatGPT, Bing, Bard, or Claude, prompting the human mind is vital. This series aims to build creative confidence, reminding us that our first try is never our last. Overcoming 'Blank Canvas' Anxiety: The episode discusses the paralyzing yet potential-filled moments of facing a blank canvas. Dr. Quidwai shares an impactful quote from Seth Godin's "Linchpin," emphasizing the distinction between 'the job' and 'the work,' which involves personal responsibility and challenging the status quo. Embracing 2024 as a Blank Canvas: The episode encourages viewing the new year as a canvas for personal and professional growth. A daily SPARK prompt is provided to guide this journey. Closing Thoughts: This episode inspires us to take small, purposeful steps towards our goals in 2024. Remember, each step is a stroke of progress in the masterpiece of your journey. Connect with Dr. Sabba Quidwai: LinkedIn Website Twitter Instagram

This week I'm delighted to introduce you to Robert Dickson, CIO of Wichita Public Schools, one of the first to design an enterprise integration of AI across their large school district of 50,000 students, and 10,000 employees. Here are three core ideas Robert shares with us in this episode. You'll find all his information below, as I know this is one guest you'll definitely want to add to your network.   Robert Dickson's insights highlight the transformative power of AI in education, focusing on strategic planning, AI literacy, and preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce. His approach emphasizes the need for a balance between technological advancement and human-centered values. His journey not only illustrates the efficiency gains and innovation that AI can bring to educational settings but also underscores its broader implications for enterprise-level integration.    Embracing AI in Education:   Robert shares how he introduced AI in education, with a focus on how it can enhance the workflow for leaders, teachers, and staff in his district. He shares insights on utilizing AI for strategic planning and instructional improvement. “Every task I do, I start at 70% to 80%... Imagine what that frees your time up to do if 70% of a task is done for you.” - Robert Dickson   AI Literacy and Policy Development:   Dickson discusses the importance of AI literacy among educators and developing policies for AI use in educational settings. “I've written an AI policy and I've revised it now twice... It's about setting guardrails but also enabling innovation and adaptation.” - Robert Dickson   The Role of AI in Future Workforce Development:   The discussion touches on how AI is reshaping the skills needed in the future workforce, emphasizing adaptability and digital literacy. “Memorization is not how we produce a skilled workforce anymore... Intelligence is a commodity.” - Robert Dickson   Connect with Robert Dickson on LinkedIn to follow his journey and insights in integrating AI in education. His resources, articles, and ideas are some of the best on this topic.   Podcast: Listen in to "What the EdTech" Robert's podcast Connect with Robert on X   Article: How Wichita Public Schools is Using Microsoft Copilot   I'd love to connect with you as well. You can join me on any of my platforms    Website: Dr. Sabba Quidwai's Website LinkedIn: Dr. Sabba Quidwai on LinkedIn Twitter: @askMsQ Instagram: @askMsQ   Reading List   Join the AI Bootcamp   Timestamps:   1:57 Why you should subscribe to ChatGPT 3:48 Introducing Rob 6:12 Rob's realization that AI can make a huge difference in education 8:44 How Rob uses AI to reach his goals with more efficiency 11:47 Time-saving with AI 13:41 Shifting the AI use from personal to enterprise level 18:40 The importance of being proactive when exploring AI, intead of just waiting to see what happens 21:11 Some skills and mindset for exploring  and incorporating AI 25:33 Design thinking as a method to approach AI 28:08 Design Thinking at the Orange County Department of Education 31:37 Improving work experience within large organizations using AI 35:29 How Rob implemented AI at enterprise level in practice 39:15 The SPARK framework for asking the right questions to AI 41:12 Some of Rob's prompting practices, guidelines and values at his organization 44:32 Introducing AI tools to students 46:36 The AI Bootcamp 47:40 Questions you should be asking going in 2024 50:42 Rob's books and resources recommendations

It's a familiar scene: organizations invest in team-building exercises and post-work gatherings to foster a sense of belonging. These proactive efforts are commendable, yet they only scratch the surface of a more profound challenge. True connectivity, it turns out, originates from a place within. In the absence of a well-defined set of core values, establishing profound and authentic relationships becomes an intricate endeavor. Enter Brant Menswar, a proponent of a values-driven pathway to genuine connections. By delineating one's core values, individuals embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery. This heightened self-awareness lays the groundwork for forging meaningful relationships anchored in transparency and intentionality. In an era dominated by AI, a poignant question emerges: how do we mold our identity amidst the onslaught of technological progress? Brant delves into this thought-provoking inquiry, advocating for an alignment of AI's influence with human values. He reframes the discourse from one of control to one of amplification, positioning AI as a tool to magnify our values and stimulate growth with purpose. Education, as a domain, is not untouched by this paradigm shift. Leveraging AI's potential, educators can imbue the educational landscape with core values, bestowing a sense of purpose upon students beyond the academic realm. Brant's quintet of fundamental values—connection, authenticity, integrity, personal growth, and creativity—serve as navigational markers, guiding individuals toward a more enriching existence. The transition to a process-oriented approach, however, is not without its complexities. Brant addresses these challenges, offering valuable insights on navigating this transformative endeavor. Educators, too, receive counsel on making decisions in alignment with their core values and those of their students, elevating the educational experience. In a world characterized by swift technological evolution, Brant's counsel stands as a beacon of wisdom. He encourages us to embrace process-oriented objectives, inviting us to weave our values into every facet of life. This expedition leads individuals not merely toward connection but also to a profound sense of purpose, shaping lives of heightened significance. 00:00 Introduction 1:06 Introducing Brant Menswar and his approach to figuring out your values 2:25 Who do you choose to be in a world driven by AI? 4:42 Brent's views on AI as a creator and its values 6:25 Using AI to reframe and amplify your values, not to try to control outcomes 12:2 Amplifying values with AI in educational contexts 14:46 Brant's 5 core values: connection, authenticity, integrity, personal growth, and creativity 22:20 How to actually use these 5 values after identifying them 26:53 Main challenges when transitioning to a process oriented goal pursuit 31:14 How can educators make decisions based on their own core-values as well as their student's 38:19 Brant's advice for making the transition to process oriented goals Connect with Brant: Website: https://www.brantmenswar.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brantmenswar/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brantmenswar/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrantMenswar/ Connect with Sabba: Website: https://designingschools.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askmsq/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SabbaQuidwai/videos

Discover the power of the human advantage in the age of AI in this podcast episode! I explore how to harness our uniquely human skills in a world where artificial intelligence, like ChatGPT, is rapidly advancing. Plus, learn about my new framework, SPARK, designed to help you maximize the potential of ChatGPT for growth and success. Tune in for an engaging conversation that will inspire and equip you for the future. Link to Resources

In a world where AI is advancing rapidly, it's easy to feel like our jobs and skills are at risk of becoming obsolete. But according to Duncan Wardle, former head of creativity and innovation at Disney, there are four human traits that will give us a competitive edge over machines. In this episode, we explore these four traits - curiosity, creativity, imagination, and intuition - and learn how they can help us succeed in a tech-driven world. Duncan shares insights on why these traits are so valuable and how they will become increasingly important in the years to come. As he points out, these skills are ones we were all born with and will be the most employable in the next decade precisely because they are the hardest to program into AI. Join us as we explore what it means to be human in the age of AI, and discover how these four human traits can help you unlock your full potential and thrive in the years ahead. Watch the documentary Connect with Sabba

In this episode I share a keynote I gave a few weeks ago at a conference titled, "Using Design Thinking and Artificial Intelligence to Reclaim Your Time." Do you want to bring this motivation and optimism to your campus? When we use technology to reduce teacher burnout, and increase impact with learners we all thrive.  Click here to bring this talk and workshop experience to your campus.  Overview: In this episode, educator and researcher Sabba Quidwai shares her insights on the power of design thinking in transforming education. She discusses the importance of empathy, problem-solving, and collaboration in creating cultures of innovation, and offers practical tips for teachers and administrators on how to incorporate design thinking into their work. She also introduces the concept of AI as a thought partner in the design thinking process and shares examples of how tools like ChatGPT can be used to accelerate innovation and improve student learning. Resources:  Blog: Using Design Thinking and Artificial Intelligence Free Guide: Using LinkedIn as a Leader (Adults) Design Your Future Course (Students) Connect with Sabba: Website | LinkedIn | Watch the Documentary

In today's rapidly evolving world, the role and purpose of education are constantly being redefined and reevaluated. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), the demands of the job market are shifting, and new skills are becoming increasingly valuable. So, what is the purpose of school in this new age?   Traditionally, schools have served as places for students to learn fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for success in life, such as reading, writing, and basic arithmetic. However, in the face of advancements in AI, this definition of success is shifting. For example, with the rise of automation, many routine tasks previously performed by humans are now done by machines. This means that the skills required for success in today's job market are changing, and schools must adapt to keep pace.   One of the most important purposes of school in today's world is to teach students how to think critically and solve complex problems. AI is capable of performing routine tasks much faster and more efficiently than humans, but it does not possess the same level of creative problem-solving abilities. This means that jobs that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills are becoming increasingly valuable, and schools must equip students with these skills to help them succeed in the workforce.   Another important purpose of school is to help students develop emotional intelligence and social skills. Despite the advances in AI, machines still lack the emotional intelligence and empathy necessary to build meaningful relationships with others. This means that emotional intelligence and social skills will remain essential to success in both personal and professional life. Schools can help students develop these skills through activities such as group projects, team-building exercises, and emotional intelligence training.   Finally, schools must also help students prepare for a future that is rapidly changing and uncertain. In this new age of AI, it is impossible to predict exactly what jobs will be available in the future or what skills will be required. Therefore, schools must focus on helping students develop lifelong learning skills, such as the ability to adapt to change and continuously learn new things. This will help them remain employable and successful in a world where AI is likely to continue disrupting the job market.   In conclusion, the purpose of school in today's world with AI is to equip students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and lifelong learning skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing job market. By preparing students for the future, schools can help ensure that they are well-equipped to thrive in a world where AI is playing an increasingly important role.   0:24 Today's topic: what's the purpose of school in today's world with AI 1:49 Seth Godin's Linchpin: what's a linchpin? 4:18 The importance of creating Art according to Seth 6:27 What are schools for? 7:45 Design thinking can help schools transition from isolation to colaboration 11:17 Seth's words to teachers: understand the difference between authority and responsability 12:48 How can school leaders make the most of new techonologies? 15:53 A message to today's learners from Seth   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

Transferring Skills from the Classroom to the Corporate World with Danielle Cevallos

It's not everyday that I have a guest whose story encompasses elements of design thinking in both their personal and professional lives.  In this episode Mokhtar Alkhanshali, whose NYT Bestselling Author Dave Eggers calls “The Monk of Mokha” shares how his curiosity in the origins of coffee allowed him to build a life at the intersection of his passion and purpose.  Join The LinkedIn Leader course waitlist. To learn more about Designing Schools click here. 

With everyone talking about ChatGPT and the acceleration of AI today's conversation is with economist and author Erik Brynjolfsson on why we should race with the machine not against the machine. He shares why we have to return to a conversation about our values and vision to guide the decisions we make as we reinvent education for what he calls The Second Machine Age.  When we step back and assess the risks and rewards of existing and emerging technologies in the context of the needs of our learners we create a culture of innovation built on empathy.  Template: Dowload the free template to have a conversation about "Obstacles and Opportunities" with your team. If you are talking about AI you can use this episode for inspiration Learn more about Erik's work here.  Learn more about Designing Schools here. 

Both personal and professional development can be improved through social media. There are many tools that can be used to share stories, ideas, and build relationships.   Social media is the perfect medium for boosting creativity and encouraging innovation since it is not restricted by any physical or geographic boundaries. It's a powerful platform for those with innovative ideas to express their thoughts and share experiences. There are a number of strategies one can use on social media that can help to create deeper connections with their followers, create greater awareness of their creative endeavors, achieve objectives relating to a product launch, and also motivate people working collaboratively on projects.   Please welcome the Building Services crew from the Santa Ana Unified School District to this episode. JJ, Gabriel, Lisette, and Emanuel are all wonderful people. They all agreed that having a voice was the most important aspect of leading through social influence. We'll discuss how the SAUSD team moved from being no one to becoming someone people talked about.   0:00 Introduction 1:24 Intrroducing the Building Services team 3:43 What inspired the team to create a social media presence 8:21 How did the team amplify their voice through their online presence 11:34 Some fears and proud achievements from the team during the pandemic 22:04 Some surprises met by the team on their journey with social influence 31:42 Discussing the power of relationships between support staff and students 34:36 Some stories from the team about relationships between students and staff 43:48 Messages from the team members to transformational leaders   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with SAUSD   Website: https://www.sausd.us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santaanausd/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SantaAnaUSD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sausd/   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

In the digital age, it's important to teach students how to use technology as a tool in order to learn and not be left behind. When applied in tandem with design thinking, we can start to teach students how to solve problems in a new and innovative way. Jon Corippo co-founded and developed a series of instructional lesson frames called EduProtocols that are designed to engage students in learning through the 4 C's:   1. Critical thinking 2. Collaboration 3. Communication 4. Creativity   EduProtocols were created to address the need for students to engage in deeper learning using technology as a tool instead of an automation device. Since then, hundreds of classrooms have been converted to Four Cs centered instruction.   Jon is the brains behind the extremely popular Eduprotocols. He has been recognised as a County Teacher of the Year, a National School Boards Association 20 to Watch Educator, an Apple Distinguished Educator, a Google Certified Innovator, and a Microsoft Innovative Educator. Jon has a decade of experience in K-8 education, including building a 1-1 project-based high school and serving in two county offices as Assistant Superintendent and IT Director. Jon is very pleased with his work as CUE's Chief Learning Officer and Executive Director. Jon has trained over 60,000 educators through CUE professional learning.   0:00 Introduction 0:51 Introducing Jon Corippo 3:55 Jon's experience travelling around the world as an educator 5:51 The problem with the idea of " real teaching" 12:40 The innovation gap analysis model 15:02 Jon's career as an educator and what changes he implemented over the years 26:35 How Jon's experience as a student motivated him as an educator 29:43 Discussing the relationship between assessment and mental health 35:52 What are some short term changes schools should adopt in assessment? 40:59 Jon's advice for educators who want to transition to a new system   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Jon Corippo:   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joncorippo/ Website: https://www.eduprotocols.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jcorippo   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

The four pillars of leadership and social influence are:   1. Building trust 2. Encouraging creativity 3. Recognizing accomplishments 4. Inspiring a collective vision.   In order to be a successful leader and have social influence, one must be able to demonstrate these qualities. For example, someone who is creative can come up with new ideas that will help those around them grow; someone who has accomplished a lot can show others what they can do if they work hard enough; someone who inspires others to work together on a common goal is an excellent leader with social influence.   For leaders to have social influence in their community, it is important for them to be trustworthy so that people are willing to follow their lead. Creativity is also important because it can help the community grow their skills, explore new ideas and develop new technologies.   This week I'm sharing reflections from leaders on their journey with leadership and social influence. You'll hear from Superintendent Jerry Almendarez, Zandra Jo Galvan, Superintendent of Greenfield Union School District, Tony Richardson, Vice Principal of the MLK Steam Academy, Associate Professor and Online Accessibility Mentor Denise Maduli-Williams, Jeff Prickett, who was named 2021 Illinois High School Principal of the Year, and Tom Murray, Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools.   0:00 Introduction 0:55 Sabba's discovery of the possibilities of online learning and teaching 4:31 Jerry's take on the relationship betwenn leadership and social influence 6:14 The importance of online presence for professional development 8:01 Zandra's take on the importance of being part of an online circle for support 10:12 The four pillars of the relationship between leadership and social influence 10:49 Jerry's experience using social influence as a leader and how it created opportunities for those around him 13:41 How leadership and social influence can also be important for people without formal titles 16:41 Tony's experience using social media to restore trust and heal teacher trauma 18:42 Denise's experience using social influence to nurture the relationship with her students 22:51 Jeff's take on how relationships (both online and offline) can work as foundations to building trust 24:26 Zandra's framework to balacing time between work, family and social media 29:39 Tom's take on how leaders can inspire a collective vision toward change through humility and vulnerability 34:17 Sabba's workshop announcement   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Jerry Almendarez: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-almendarez-916437b1/   Connect with Zandra Jo Galvan: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zandra-jo-galvan-99b95172/   Connect with Tony Richardson: Twitter: https://twitter.com/tonyrchrdsn   Connect with Denise Maduli-Williams: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmaduliwilliams/   Connect with Jeff Prickett: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffryprickett/   Connect with Tom Murray: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomascmurray/   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

The best way to get learners to see the space in between as an opportunity is to create a culture of innovation. This can be done through leadership and design thinking. When it comes to innovation, leaders should be able to take a step back and see the big picture, whereas design thinkers should be able to understand the needs of the student and create solutions that are both innovative and practical.   Leadership is key when it comes to creating a culture of innovation. Leaders should be able to step back from their day-to-day work and see the bigger picture in terms of innovation.   The future of education is not about the end result, but about the process. The process of learning is what matters most, and this is where design thinking can be applied. Design thinking is a process that helps learners see obstacles as opportunities and know how to navigate the space in between. It teaches them to be resilient and persistent in their pursuits, which are skills that will serve them well in any field they pursue.   Tony Richardson, Vice Principal, leads the MLK Steam and Design Campus in California. He joins us today to discuss how he's assisting his primary school community in becoming "life-ready innovators, rethinking the world."   0:00 Introduction 1:49 Importance of design thinking for overcoming obstacles and unlocking your creativity 3:24 How Tony designed his vision for MLK Steam 8:22 Creating a growth mindset culture 10:07 Tony's journey and two inflection points that shaped him into a leader 13:35 How Tony first came to learn about design thinking and how has it impacted his work 15:52 Some strategies that Tony used to create a culture of trust 19:46 Knowledge, motivation and organization influence performance 21:12 Tony's views on motivation influences and how to balance them against toxic positivity 23:06 Examples of changes made by Tony through design thinking in classroom 27:28 Transitioning to integrated learning 30:11 What is 'teacher trauma' and how can one create an enviroment of psychological safety 35:36 Tony's current area and students he is working with 37:27 Presenting a study on how design thinking can help low achieving students 39:16 Using portfolios as assessment 42:21 Tony's views on the relationship between leadership and social influence 43:46 Some strategies and advice on creating a culture of trust and safety   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop:   https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Tony Richardson:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/tonyrchrdsn   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

The future of schools is changing. The current education system is in need of change more than ever. Schools should focus on what students want to learn, and not what teachers want to teach them. Students should have the opportunity to explore their interests and passions in a safe environment.   The nation's schools are under more pressure than ever to educate kids for an information-rich, high-tech, entrepreneurial, global economy that demands a highly trained, informed, adaptable, and competent workforce. Today, postsecondary education is required for 80% of well-paying occupations.   A school that embraces design thinking will be able to create a more innovative environment for students by encouraging them to experiment with new ideas, engage in teamwork, take risks, and develop relationships with other students who have different skillsets from them.  The design process is one that starts with a problem and works through the steps of finding the solution.   Today's guest, Thomas Murray works with Future Ready Schools as the director of innovation. He's testified in front of the United States Congress and appeared on a variety of television and radio shows. Murray is a frequent conference keynote speaker who was named one of the NSBA's "20 to Watch" in 2018, the "national/global edtech leader of the year" in 2017, and the academy of arts and sciences' "education policy person of the year" in 2015. Both Learning Transformed and Personal and Authentic Learning have become best-sellers.   0:00 Introduction 1:49 What is Future Ready and what does it's framework look like? 6:20 How Future Ready answered the challenges posed by the pandemic 10:35 How to use design thinking to design studying practices with (and not for) students 11:50 The importance of the design thinking mindset and challenges when shifting mindset 17:21 Two inflection points that made Tom a great leader 22:01 Some strategies to help people develop empathy 24:45 Tom's views on leaders building social trust and influence 29:49 How can leaders build personal and authentic relationships with their teams   Download: How Do I Learn Best: A Design Thinking Experience https://designingschools.org/2022/03/22/part-two-how-do-i-learn-best-a-design-thinking-experience/   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Thomas Murray:   Website: https://www.thomascmurray.com   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

In both Virginia and Pennsylvania, Shane Hotchkiss has over 23 years of combined educational and managerial experience. He's worked as a fourth grade teacher, an elementary reading specialist, an elementary assistant principal, an elementary principal, and an assistant superintendent. Dr. Hotchkiss has also taught at Wilkes University, Cabrini College, and Wilson College as an adjunct professor.   Shane graduated from Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania, with a doctorate in educational leadership. He got his Master's Degree in Education from Mansfield University in Mansfield, PA, along with a Reading Specialist certification. He also has a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Mansfield University.   Often, discussions on the future of employment focus on how we prepare kids. We seldom take a step back and consider what work may look like today for the grownups in the company. We now have the chance to explore the best of both worlds and what options exist for how we spend our time and resources, especially now that we've seen what working remotely may look like.   Shane joins me today to discuss his daring vision for his district, as well as how he models and leads an innovative culture through cultivating empathy. We also address how to stay creative as an adult and educator, how to recognize your talents and personality, and so much more.   0:00 Introduction 1:24 Introducing Shane Hotchkiss and his journey as a leader over a decade 6:42 How to keep being creative as an adult and educator? 9:50 Assessments for identifying your strengths and personality 10:55 How to encourage creativity among a team as a leader? 16:22 Preparing for the future today: what's the meaning of this statement in practice 23:45 Shane's views on the relationship between leadership and social influence 29:24 What did Shane have to learn and relearn during his experience as a leader 34:33 Shane's take on what we should do to improve education in the future: more teachers and more leaders   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Shane Hotchkiss:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-hotchkiss-29004037/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/shane_hotchkiss   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

A good superintendent should have a deep understanding of the district's needs and be able to build relationships with parents, teachers, students and other stakeholders. They should also be able to lead design thinking in order to develop innovative solutions for problems in the education system. Some duties of the superintendent include directing planning and scheduling, budgeting, student assessment and determining appropriate resources for schools.   Josh Van Norman took over as Superintendent of the San Antonio Union School District on July 2nd, 2019. He is looking forward to starting his new job in the picturesque Monterey County, California. Mr. Van Norman was the Assistant Principal at Del Sur Elementary in the Poway Unified School District before to joining SAUSD. The school launched the first-ever TedEd Club, which focused on public speaking for students, a student-led broadcast club, and Sanford Harmony, a Social and Emotional Learning program, under his guidance. Mr. Van Norman was recognized at the District level for the importance of these programs, which focused on developing the complete child and equipping children with future skills.   Josh joins Designing Schools to discuss how he built trust within his community, some valuable leadership lessons that he's learned with regards to relationships, listening, slowing down and his views on the relationship between leadership and social influence.   0:00 Introduction 0:31 Introducing Josh Van Norman 1:43 Discussing the power of relationships and how Josh dealt with it during the pandemic 5:26 Some valuable leadership lessons that Josh learned: relationships, listening, slowing down 9:04 What Josh did to build trust within his community 14:50 From built trust, how did Josh accelerate inovation within his district 20:48 Some things that Josh did to improve his school district 25:51 Josh's views on the relationship between leadership and social influence 29:41 Using social media presence to make career transitions 31:55 Did becoming a parent influence Josh's practice?   Connect with Josh Van Norman:   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-van-norman-03a983138/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/VanNormanJosh   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

The capacity to personalize the interaction with remote learners is critical in all kinds of distance education. It is important for teachers to understand that it's not about them, but about the learners. They need to focus on designing an engaging learning experience for their students.   You want to generate great online videos, but you also want to make your online discussion boards more interesting, while also bringing equity and diversity into your online classrooms through synchronous and asynchronous activities. Meanwhile, you're attempting to maximize your time and manage your online office hours while also assisting students who are having difficulty navigating the online world. And you're doing it all while a pandemic is raging. Does this ring a bell?   Denise has spent over two decades teaching English to native and non-native speakers in a variety of contexts. She has worked in a California jail, a Botswana hamlet as a Peace Corps Volunteer, and New York City public high schools before settling at community colleges.   She is currently an Associate Professor and Online Accessibility Mentor at San Diego Miramar College, where she teaches online, hybrid, and in-person courses. She is also a professor at the University of San Diego, where she teaches graduate students. She's also a PhD student who's looking into the role of social presence in online learning achievement.   Denise feels that equitable, humanized online experiences help students succeed.   0:00 Introduction 0:38 Meet Denise 2:06 Using videos to build rapport with online learners 6:51 How Denise creates her videos and posting them on social media 9:30 Discussing the challenges and opportunities of online teaching 14:56 The importance of listening to faculty for decision making in education 17:32 How was the online learning experience for students and what do they want from now on 23:38 Benefits of introducing portfolios to online students 28:07 Denise's students experience with portfolios 29:30 Why Denise decided to go back to school and her current research 33:28 Denise's thoughts about higher education today and moving forward   Leading Teams That Work Better Together Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Denise Maduli-Williams:   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmaduliwilliams/   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

One of the most crucial parts of leadership is relationships. You must be able to build a connection with those around you and earn their trust in order to be an effective leader. Frameworks that facilitate effective conversations build solid relationships, and in turn, everyone can better solve issues, improve decision-making, and promote trust and safety in any environment.    Relationships also serve as a foundation for how people feel about themselves. A relationship that is built on trust will make the individual more willing to follow your lead and take your advice.   Building a relationship of trust with someone requires a balance to be struck, such that you are able to have flare and finesse, while being present and available, as well as being consistent in your communication with them.    This week on the show, I'm joined by Zandra Jo Galvan, the superintendent of the Greenfield Union School District. She is enthusiastic about socially and intellectually preparing students for college and professions, and she makes sure that every member of her community understands that they are part of an elite team devoted to breaking the cycle of poverty.   0:00 Introduction 0:34 Introducing Zandra Jo Galvan 1:48 Zandra's background and secret to her energy and enthusiasm 5:13 The importance of discovering purpose at a young age 6:46 What lead Zandra to become a superintendent 10:05 Education should inform students about change and opportunitites 13:03 Relationships as a key element for transformational leaders 16:05 Some strategies from Zandra to build relationships with faculty and staff 20:52 Discussing Leadership and Social influence 23:49 How Zandra manages her social media 25:57 Talking about Zandra's doctorate and research interests 28:42 Zandra's experience of being a learner in today's world 32:51 Some challenges experienced by Zandra and advices on how to deal with them   Better Digital Tools for Education Leaders Workshop: https://designingschools.org/workshops   Connect with Zandra Jo Galvan:   Twitter: https://twitter.com/zjgalvan Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zandra-jo-galvan-99b95172/   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

Leadership is not something that you are born with. It is something that needs to be taught and nurtured. Leaders are made, they don't just happen. Leadership is a skill that needs to be practiced and learned.   The first step to becoming a leader is learning how to think like one. This means understanding what leadership really means and how it can be applied in different situations. Leadership skills are developed through observing others, practicing leadership in various situations, and being mentored by someone who has already mastered the skill.   Leaders are the people who drive change and innovation. They are the ones who make sure that their team is aligned towards a common goal. Leaders are not managers, they possess skills that distinguish them from managers.   My guest in this episode, Dr. Jeff Prickett, is one of the most compassionate leaders I've met. He is a professional educator who has worked as the principal of elementary, middle, and high schools. He has worked as an assistant administrator, dean of students, and classroom teacher throughout his 25 years of public school career.   In this episode, we talk about the five skills that distinguish leaders from managers: associating, questioning, observing, empathy and education.   0:00 Introduction 3:30 Introducing Dr. Jeff Prickett and his journey of becoming a leader 8:59 The importance of empathy and asking questions as a leader 13:52 Jeff figuring out what it means to look and act like a leader 16:38 How values can help make a better leader and create trust among a community 22:55 Childhood and youth moments that shaped Jeff's core values 27:09 Two shaping moments from Jeff's first years as a high school principal 29:41 Strategies to help kids navigate through adversities today 36:05 Strategies to nurture creativity and innovation in high school 39:56 Jeff's thought on the relationship between leadership and social influence 43:58 The importance of bringing parents into the conversation about education 45:15 Jeff's advice for leaders   Connect with Dr. Jeff Prickett:   March 10 Workshop Invitation: Better Digital Tools for Education Leaders Connect with Jeff Jeff Prickett on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jdprickett Jeff Prickett on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdprickett/ The Principal Leadership Lab podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-principal-leadership-lab/id1519710842 "Becoming Principal" on Amazon Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai: Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

How can we move away from a one-size-fits-all paradigm and toward one in which learners have the agency to design their own learning experiences? Today I visit the Davis School District to meet Robert Kinghorn and Amy Thompson.   Amy has been a teacher for the past 18 years. Amy was formally recognised as a "Exemplary Teacher" in the Salt Lake City School District based on student progress and competency outcomes while teaching in the Salt Lake City School District. She has also worked as a teacher's aide and an assistant principal. Amy is presently teaching coding and digital skills to upper elementary pupils.   During Robert's five-year time as principal of a Title 1 school in Clearfield, Utah, he worked with teachers to change the atmosphere and improve academic achievements, virtually doubling student competence rates on end-of-level state testing.   The section of Amy and Rob's book, Out of the Dugout, that has stayed with me the most is when they discuss how they foster a mentality in learners based on growth, belonging, and agency. It's one of the things that, as adults, many of us did not have exposure to in school, and as a result, it's one of the reasons why so many of us struggle with change.   0:00 Introduction 1:29 Introducing Robert Kinghorn and Amy Thompson and how they came together to publish their book 10:53 What should leaders focus on to build trust across an educational team 13:12 Tools for identifying someone's strengths and the level of psychological safety 14:54 Rob and Amy's take on what 'personalized learning' means 19:40 Challenges faced when desigining experiences of agency and autonomy for learners 24:49 Talking about 'Out of the Dugout' and its proposed framework 32:45 How to approach teachers when implementing changes in schools 35:33 How to help teachers develop a sense of self-efficacy 40:51 Talking about teacher collaboration and how it looks like in Rob and Amy's framework 43:47 Some hurdles that Rob and Amy faced while implementing their framework 48:09 Rob and Amy's views on design thinking for creating change in schools 52:02 Defining motivation and how to develop it while implementing changes   Connect with Rob and Amy:   Website: https://outofthedugout.com/ Rob's Twitter: https://twitter.com/rwkinghorn Amy's Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmyT_555   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

This week on the show I'm taking you to Georgia Tech. From diversity, to innovation to academic excellence it's one of the top ranking universities with a vision to develop leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition. Today I'm speaking with Wayne Li and Michael Flanigan about how they use design thinking to carry out the vision of the university.  In this episode we discuss: Why design thinking is a lifestyle Why the traditional model of school leads to children feeling shame and insecurity The goal of the Design Bloc program at Georgia Tech and how they use design thinking practices Why students and faculty engage in community projects using design thinking The influence Design Bloc projects have had on empowering the community with design thinking practices The mindset shifts they see in students who are in the Design Bloc How students in K12 can leverage a portfolio to stand out in the admissions process

Part one of my conversation with Adam and Larissa, co-founders of MakeTeamWork, discusses why a culture of trust and psychological safety is critical for creating successful teams. A talk regarding masculine and feminine cultures was one of the most intriguing aspects of our chat.   In a feminine society, the emphasis is on the quality of life and the people. While in a male society, competitiveness, accomplishment, and success are valued. A culture that pervades all institutions, especially schools. It's the difference between working to live and living to work.   The only way to ensure that everyone can contribute to uncovering and addressing issues, as well as seizing opportunities, is to ensure that everyone has access to a high-quality, equal education.   0:00 Introduction 1:33 Talking about Finland as an example of ' feminine'  education 4:40 What is the Quirky Owl program? 9:40 Why is it so hard to be authentic as a leader? 16:48. How does the ' Start-Stop-Continue' strategy works? 20:06 Adam and Larissa's case studies 25:25 Neema's experience with the project Imagine September 28:44 Importance of technology for education, when paired with a focus on relationships 30:24 Neema's advice for designing human-centered environments 32:52 What changed for Neema as a teacher after the pandemics? 35:41 How 'the great resignation' will impact educators in the future? 39:52 Adam and Larissa's tips for design teams and schools that meet students today's needs   Reserve Your Free Ticket for the Launch of the Documentary- https://designingschools.org/documentary    Connect with Larissa / Adam / Neema:   Website: maketeamwork.com Larissa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissamenocci/ Adam LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamambrozy/ MakeTeamWork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maketeamwork/   Neema: Twitter - @AvashiaNeema   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

Trust is the most important factor in culture activation. It's the cornerstone of education, and it's what makes people want to do something. It's how you get people to take that one step. Trust is the foundation if anything else is to thrive.   Larissa and Adam co-founded MakeTeamWork.com, a global company specialising in team development, culture change, and visual collaboration. MakeTeamWork, founded in 2020 and located in Amsterdam, has created a relevant array of services and an impressive client list by developing and facilitating unique learning experiences that help teams build trust and accomplish amazing outcomes.   They are thought leaders in applying agility, creativity, and the science of Team & Organisational Development into workplaces around the globe, in person and remotely. Their Quirky Owl program, discussed in the podcast, aims to equip leaders to be authentic while having the tools to develop their high-performing teams.   0:00 Introduction 2:41 Introducing Larissa and Adam 4:27 How MakeTeamWork began just prior to the pandemic 6:39 The growth in the need for team design after the pandemic 9:00 The importance of psychological safety for making great teams 11:45 Defining Trust and Psychological safety 14:27 Introducing Neema and her views on education 15:48 How the pandemic affected Neema's educational practices 22:04 Why is it so hard to build a culture of trust within education? 25:41 How can design thinking help education? 26:41 Where to begin when accessing an organization's culture? 31:01 What leaders can do to improve trust and psychological safety on their teams?   Reserve Your Free Ticket for the Launch of the Documentary- https://designingschools.org/documentary    Connect with Larissa / Adam / Neema:   Website: maketeamwork.com Larissa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissamenocci/ Adam LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamambrozy/ MakeTeamWork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maketeamwork/   Neema: Twitter - @AvashiaNeema   Connect with me, Dr. Sabba Quidwai:   Website: https://designingschools.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabba-quidwai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/askMsQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designing_schools/

In This Episode We Discuss: The challenges that arise when you don't take ownership of telling your story How leadership and social influence help build trust, encourage creativity, recognize accomplishments, and inspire a collective vision How leaders can nurture and grow talent within an organization How districts can leverage brand ambassador programs How different departments from construction, to site principals can leverage social media Why leaders should embrace an infinite mindset Connect with Jerry on LinkedIn and Twitter Connect with Lynette For more episodes and information visit Designing Schools.   

In this episode we discuss: How Jerry uses his weekly Friday meetings with his leadership team of over 180 people How creating a culture of vulnerability influenced the conversations that were taking place at the different sites across the district Significant inflection points, both personal and professional, that have shaped Jerry into he leader he is today

In This Episode We Discuss: How Jerry defines innovation The framework Jerry uses to develop strategic foresight How being vulnerable led to deep and meaningful relationships with his leadership team The strategies Jerry uses to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world How he overcomes the fear of being vulnerable in public spaces, such as social media platforms Connect with Jerry on Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Connect with Sabba on Twitter and Instagram. 

Today's episode is a reminder of how much potential today's young people have to create, collaborate and design solutions to areas they are interested in.  In this episode we discuss: The mindset and skills Seth believes young people need to have to thrive in today's world How he uncovered a need for creating LinkJoin The value of LinkedIn as a platform for young people Strategies for how students can get started with LinkedIn and how to use it The changes he'd like to see in school as a learner.  To learn more about LinkJoin click here. To connect with Seth on LinkedIn click here. 

You may have noticed that people kind of say the same thing over and over. They have one message with different versions for different audiences, and that consistency is a big part of their influence. But being consistent on social media doesn't have to mean coming up with brand new content every day. It could mean showing up consistently with repurposed content or going deeper into old content. In this episode, I give you some tips to tell your story online and increase your influence.   Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

Just about everyone believes that the way we do education needs to change. We know the why, so I'm focusing on the how. In this episode, I talk about two different frameworks that can help educators get through the first step.    Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

“The future is already here – it's just not very evenly distributed.“ This quote by William Gibson resonates with me so much. Most of the time when we talk about the future, we talk about things that are going to happen. But if you look around the world you may find that these things are already happening. There is so much opportunity in the world today but how do we empower others to fully take advantage of it? In this episode, I rift on this quote and talk about the humble beginnings of my dissertation.   Click here for the full episode!   To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

The struggle never ends. You solve one problem, just to find a different one later one. But finding the right problem is a huge part of finding the right solution. So no matter what struggle I'm facing, I always remember that cultures of innovation begin with a culture of empathy. And I combat it by focusing on people's fears and motivations. In this episode, I talk about this concept further. I also bring up the importance of listening.   Click here for the full episode!   To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

If you've been listening to the podcast for a while, you probably know that it started off as an extension of my dissertation, which was a deep dive into the work of Design39Campus. Design39Campus is a collaborative community focused on changing the way we do school. In this episode, I talk about how this idea started and why I chose podcasting as my medium.   Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

In this follow-up episode, Luke tells us where the idea for his curriculum came from. He also talks about his three steps to solving a problem: 1. Finding the problem, 2. Solving the problem, and 3. Creating a prototype.   Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

We can't teach students how to solve every problem. We just can't. We don't even know what the major problems in the future will be. So instead, we need to teach students methods to solve problems by breaking them down! That is why today's guest Luke Harris created the Design Engineering Curriculum for Young Adults, to help students learn empathy and other skills in a greater worldly context.    Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

Let's face it. The American Education System could definitely use a makeover. We don't teach students how to be leaders and problem-solve and think for themselves. Instead, they learn how to be a part of a whole, how to get hired by a corporation, how to fit in. In this episode, Nancy talks about how different skills like leadership and entrepreneurship can better benefit students.   Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

Nancy Bosnoian is a sleep activist and the founder and executive director of End No Sleep, Inc., a youth-led, nonprofit committed to providing sleep resources to vulnerable communities through education, awareness, and direct service. In this episode, she talks about why she recommends gap years and/or taking semesters off to help students find their passions and figure out what they want to pursue. She encourages taking risks and being okay with failing.   Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.

In this follow-up episode, Diana and Kandis share some advice with new graduates. They talk about finding opportunities to practice your passion, connecting with people from all over the world, building your network, and being creative.   Click here for the full episode! To complement the summer series I've created a free guide for you to master how to develop the clarity and confidence to showcase your strengths, skills, and ideas in an online portfolio. You can download it here.