Teach Wonder

We're back for another seasion of Teach Wonder, and we are exploring the concept of "agency" in education - the idea of giving students more choice, control, and ownership over their learning. We discuss how agency is often talked about in education, but can be challenging to implement effectively We share examples from their own experiences, like in a makerspace setting, where they had to rethink how they structured activities to promote agency. Overall, our discussion focuses on the nuances and complexities of fostering true student agency, beyond just giving choices, and the hosts aim to have an in-depth exploration of the topic over the course of this seasion. LinksMaker-Centered LearningIntro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Olexy from PixabayFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

In this episode of our series, Form Theory to Practice, we delve into the invaluable role of community in the teaching profession, featuring Sarah Lapp, a passionate math teacher and alumna of CMU. Whether you're a new teacher navigating the early stages of your career or a seasoned veteran seeking fresh inspiration, Sarah shares insightful perspectives on how community support shapes the teaching journey.Join us as we explore the dynamic interplay between theory and practice in education, highlighting the transformative impact of fostering connections within the teaching community.Intro Music: David BiedenbenderFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

In this episode of "From Theory to Practice," we talk with Maddie Birgin. As a former STEM Education scholar and current math teacher, Maddie brings a unique perspective to teaching and getting involved with the school community. Throughout our conversation, Maddie shared insights into the challenges of managing large groups of students with varying expectations. She discussed strategies for engaging reluctant math students, highlighting the importance of creativity and adaptability in teaching methodologies.One of the key takeaways from our discussion was Maddie's passion for staying involved in her school community. Despite the inevitable obstacles faced by educators, Maddie's commitment to making a difference in the lives of her students shines through. She emphasized the importance of building relationships and fostering a supportive learning environment.LinksSummer Teacher Professional Development Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

In our series, "From Theory to Practice," we're thrilled to reconnect with some of our  CMU Alumni, who we got to know through out STEM Education Scholar Program. Today, we shine the spotlight on Sara Fitzpatrick, a former math teacher and current school counselor. Links: From Theory to Practice: Bailey Birman (STEM Education Scholars Series 1) From Theory to Practice: Ryan Stevens (STEM Education Scholar Series 2) Intro Music: David Biedenbender Music by Artem Hramushkin from PixabayMusic by Jeremiah Alves from PixabayFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

In our series, "From Theory to Practice," we're thrilled to reconnect with some of our  CMU Alumni, who we got to know through out STEM Education Scholar Program. Today, we shine the spotlight on Ryan Stevens a middle school math and STEM teacher. Join us as we delve into Ryan's journey from student to teacher, exploring the invaluable lessons learned and the profound impact of his CMU experience on his teaching philosophy and practices.Ryan's LinksMavinEdison RobotsOur Links: Teacher Professional DevelopmentIntro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Music by 민관 박 from PixabayMusic by Oleksii Kaplunskyi from PixabayFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We caught up with some of our CMU Alumni, the students who we got to know well as STEM Education Scholars. Bailey Birman is teaches math at an alternative high school in Michigan. She shares the ways in which she felt prepared to teach and what has been a learning curve. Her thoughts on keeping a healthy boundary between her classroom and her life as well why she is excited to stay in such a challenging profession are worth the listen. Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We wrap up our assessment series by talking with Nicole Hagle. Nicole shares her strategies for looking at proficiencies instead of points. We talk about what happens when students do not understand the grading system and what we can do to help.  Other Episodes on Assessment: Healthy Grading Practices: Perspectives from a Secondary TeacherAssessment in Elementary Assessing Multiple Grades and Skills  TranscriptIntro Music:David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We're continuing our conversation on assessment with multi-age teacher, Tammy Clingenpeel. We talk about making "just in time" accommodations, how to differentiate assessment within a fixed curriciulum, and how Tammy's teaching has changed over time. This episode is a thoughtful reflection from a thoughtful teacher. We know you'll love it. Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We're back and talking assessment with elementary teacher Bryant Greiner. We talk assessment strategies for math and reading and the skills we build in elementary. Bryant's warm and enthusiasm for learning about his students skills and personalities is a great reminder of how building relationships with students must be factored into every aspect of teaching and learning. Tune in to hear tips and ideas that would work for any grade level! Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabey Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We hope you enjoy our interview with June Teisan. She's a long-time educator and a life-long learner. We discuss the 3Ps of project, place, and problem based learning. LinksNCWITInnovatED 313Music: Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Oleksandr Savochka,   Sergii Pavkin from PixabayFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

How do we communicate student growth? Is that the same as work ethic? The same as effort? Our conversation with teacher Aric Foster gets us thinking about what makes a healthy grading practice. Our Email: cese@cmich.edu Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We spoke with Lizzie Dilg, director of the Discovery Museum in Mt. Pleasant Michigan. We discussed how museums are designed to foster learning and how we can learn from the way informal educators approach children. Museum Links: Discovery Museum on FacebookDiscovery Museum Website Discovery Museum on InstagramSTEM PassportMusic Intro: David BiedenbenderOther sounds: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

Julie and Ashley are back for another season of Teach Wonder. Listen as we talk about what teaching lessons we've learned this summer and some fun takes on our adventures in reading. Links: Unearthing Joy The WagerAscendant Intro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

In this seasons finale, we took a different approach. You're going to hear an episode that's part reflection, part conversation and part remix. We took clips from two influential interviews to our staff and listened to them in a new light.  There is no bad time to reflect on what teaching means to you, but the end of the year feels like a particularly relevant time for us. You can listen to the original episodes at the link below. Interview with Dr. Corey Drake Interview with Dr. Paula Lancaster  LinksCore Teaching Practices: Michigan Teaching WorksIntro Music: David BiedenbenderOther Music: LesFmXtremeFreddy  from Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

 We are absolutely thrilled to have with us this week Laura Trombley and Becky Rousseau, two incredible teachers who have been trying some new things in their classroom. We'll be chatting about how partnerships and collaboration can nurture a more dynamic learning environment, the power of project-based learning, what kind of data can actually tell us how our students are learning, and so much more! So, who's ready for a great conversation?Opening Music: David Biedenbender Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

In a slight deviation from our regular content, we're sharing the final products from two student clubs in Alma and Ithaca. Students created a set of audio dramas for their peers and for us. Join us as we celebrate the creativity and collaboration of these two groups of students. Music and Effects: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

Our second episode with Tracy Donohue. In this episode, we further our discussion on play and it's integral role in development and it's place in schools. This is a continuation of our discussion from a previous episode- we recommend you start your listening journey there. Listen to Episode 1 nowIntroduction Music: David Biedenbender Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

Today we're talking with Dr. Tracy Donohue. Join our guest as they reflect on their professional experiences and how they have prepared them to work with teacher education students who are learning to teach through play. As you listen, we invite you to also reflect on the background you bring to education, how you value play and what you would be willing to investigate to challenge yourself in these areas.Introduction Music: David BiedenbenderFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

Role playing games and story? Yes. Role playing games and fantasy? Obviously. But role playing games and STEM?  Find out why we say- absolutely! Our interview with Mike Reuter focuses role playing games and their possibilities with students. Owner of Raconteurs of the High Road, Mike draws on his experience leading middle & high school and adult groups in popular role playing campaigns. We talk about the skills and surprises that come with engaging in this activity with students. Whether you're unsure of what we mean when we say rpgs or you're regularly throwing for perception checks, this episode will interest and surprise you.  Mike helped us make this episode extra creative in a way that will draw you into the realms and worlds that have so many coming individuals joining Mike in front of his maps each week. Music:  SergeQuadrado from PixabayAshot-Danielyan-Composer from PixabayLexin_Music from PixabayAdditional Sound Effects: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We talked with Instructrional Coach Megan Nix. This conversation includes insights into project-based learning, how we think about students and their voice and choice, and the experiences that change us as teachers. Megan's answers are full of reflection and insight; they are an expression of how much she values students and giving them meaningful and authentic learning experiences. Links: John SpencerIntro Music: David BiedenbederOther Music: SergeQuadradoFind us on social media: Instagram: cmichceseFacebook: cmich_cese

We interviewed 906 Adventure Team's Todd Poquette. This conversation began with a discussion about the goals and structure of this youth biking team. Mountain bikers will appreciate Todd's focus and love of this activity. Educators and parents, you will want to hear how this growing nonprofit is rethinking the way we think about grit and resilience. Links:906 Adventure TeamSound Effects found on Pixabay 

This week on Teach  Wonder, we are bringing you an interview with Dawn Kahler. A middle school teacher from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dawn brings a level head and thoughtful presence to teaching in 2022. This conversation spans student relationships, administration, and how to take care of yourself. Links: Kagan: It's All About Engagement For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y'all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education by Christopher EmdinIntro Music by: David Biedenbender 

This episode revisits a familiar topic in a new way. We're taking a look at the new program at Central Michigan University that is allowing students to integrate their learning in a collaborative environment. This episode shares the perspectives of faculty and students. We talk about the tips and ideas that were part of the instrumental workshop series that preceding work with students. As we close out the 2022 semester, this episode touches on all of the topics we've explored this semester. Change in education, how we teach, and what it means to belong. Links: STEM Jobs See Uneven ProgressSTEM Labor Force TodayInSciTEIntro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music Coma StudioLesFm Tuesday Night Lite Saturation OlexyDaddy S Music 

Christie Folsom works at the Chippewa River District Library. Whether you are a regular in the library or are not sure what street you'd drive down to find yours, this episode is for you.  Our conversation spans early literacy and the role of libraries in the community. We end our interview with our favorite reads of 2022. We guarantee this interview will is one you'll enjoy. Links: Chippewa River District LibraryBook EatersFairy TaleNow What The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The HorseA World of Curiosities Cloud Cuckoo Land Intro Music by: David BiedenbenderOther Music and Sounds: Coma-MediaMusic for VideoLexinPixabayNullhertzAudio Coffee

In its simplest form, today's interview focuses on the program Connections that Count. It partners Central Michigan University undergrads with people with disabilities. More realistically, this podcast episode is about building a community that is based on respect and care; one that brings out the best in others and holds members accountable. Building communities like that take time and work. Dr. Holly Hoffman shares details about this program and tells us why it's important to foster that sense of community. Links: Connections that CountMusic: David Biedenbender 

Our interview with Pete O'Neil focuses on building relationships with students as a launching point for learning. He shares how he his thinking about teaching has changed overtime and what ideas and experiences he has learned from in his 23 years as a teacher. Pete's honest approach to difficult questions makes this interview one that we can all learn from. Intro Music by David BiedenbenderOther Music: Daddy_S_Music Backstag147 Meditation Hypnosis Samuel Francis Johnson Nature's Eye Ordinary Day 

This episode is a conversation with faculty Wiline Pangle, PhD. She is leading a new certificate that is a combined effort of many and speaks to a movement in education that we are more than a little interested in. This certificate gives students an opportunity to integrate their skills and apply them in a way that is authentic. We discuss the difference between student driven and student centered learning. We hear about the logistics involved and the dreams for this certificate. And we are inspired by the way in which this program looks to capture a student's capacity to grow and help them maximize the skills that aren't easily assessed by siloed systems. Music: David Biedenbender 

Ever wondered what a year in the life of another teacher looks like? Ever wonder what a year of doing project-based, interdisciplinary learning in a makerspace looks like? Trey Smith is a K - 8 digital literacy teacher in Philadelphia. He is sharing details on his units, approach to educational design, and reflections on where to go next. You'll leave this episode with a better understanding of how content can be connected and integrated into a cohesive unit. Join us for a reflective and practice-packed conversation.Links: Wildcat Workshop at Chester Arthur SchoolPhiladelphia Writing ProjectNational Writing ProjectNext Generation Science StorylinesExploratorium ActivitiesPhET Interactive SimulationsStoryMap JSTeaching with the Library of Congress Blog Post with Political Cartoon about Water QualitySupporting Civically Engaged Argument Writing with Primary Sources: Monuments, Memorials, and MemoryCode.orgMicro:bits and MakeCodeTrey's Personal WebsiteOther Makerspace and STEM Educator Episodes: Defining STEM EducationThe Experience Doesn't End in the Makerspace Empowerment is the Why in Education Intro Music :David Biedenbender Other Music: Brenton Davis- Lofi in the bankMonday Hopes- walk on funky street LesFm- LoFi Night DreamingMandiran New Circles

We are bringing our former teacher friend and new colleague Kim June back on our podcast. We asked Kim to think about a change she's made to her practice and how she is bringing that into the fall. We were not prepared for her answer- so much so, that we brought her back for a second interview for this episode. Part I will be an interview with Julie and Part II is with Ashley. You won't want to miss Kim's reflection on her 30+ year teaching career and what she would do if she was back in the classroom right now. Links: Kim's First EpisodeMusic: Intro and Outro by David Biedenbender Other Music: Selections by Schubert Daylight Emotional by SunnyFruit 

Welcome to Season 3! We're launching this season with Amanda Cornwell. A colleague at the makerspace, Amanda runs field trips, student programming, and brings a huge amount of creativity, innovation, and joy to the makerspace. We asked her about how she's changed as an educator and how she's bringing that into fall. Music By: David BiedenbenderLinks: Heather Lanier 

Welcome back to Season 3 of Teach Wonder. Tune in to hear some what is coming this season and find out how you can be involved. Email us: cese@cmich.edu Music: David Biedenbender

We're ending this season with a mix of interviews from a different point of view. Julie spoke with three students at Central Michigan University who are studying to be teachers. Listen to how they're preparing, how they've grown, and what they think about building relationships with students. Intro Music: David Biedenbender 

 Sarah Szuminski brings a unique blend of experience as a teacher and as a parent to this important conversation about childhood, special education, and what we want for our kids. Sarah has her master's degree in early childhood special education. She has worked in professional settings with children, teachers, parents, and therapists. As a parent, she has done the same. Parents, teachers, and adults will learn from Sarah's expertise and passion. Sarah's Links: Simplifying PlayLisa Murphy On Play WrightslawAdditional Links: Disability Visibility

In a slight change from our usual episodes, we're bringing you a trio of audio dramas. Written, directed, and performed by a middle school group that met after school in the makerspace, we know you'll be impressed with their creativity and enthusiasm. Thanks to CMU Faculty Will Anderson for partnering in this project, Serafine Hinz for recording and post production, and to our actors writers and directors: Oliva, Theo, Constantine, Claire, and Mark! Additional Music by: MondayHopesHumanoideVFXLiteSaturation 

This week on Teach  Wonder, we are bringing you an interview with Dawn Kahler. A middle school teacher from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dawn brings a level head and thoughtful presence to teaching in 2022. This conversation spans student relationships, administration, and how to take care of yourself. Links: Kagan: It's All About Engagement For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y'all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education by Christopher EmdinIntro Music by: David Biedenbender Other Music:

In today's episode. We're considering what STEM means from different perspectives. You'll hear interviews with Claire Bunker, MiSTEM Network Director, East Central Michigan Region, and Amy Hindbaugh-Marr, STEAM Teacher in Ithaca, Michigan. These two interviews share stories, experiences, and practice advise that will help you think about STEM in your community. Links: MiSTEM Pipeline and BackgroundCode.org- MichiganOzobotsChief Science Officers (CSO)Intro Music by: David BiedenbenderOther Music:  Zen_Man MuzaproductionMondayHopesREDproductions ZakharValaha WinkingFoxMusic LesfmNaturesEye

Brandis Ansley is a faculty member at Central Michigan University in the special education department. Prior to getting her PhD, Brandis worked in the mental health field and as a special education teacher. This podcast explores the ways in which stress affects, students, teachers, and the education system.Links: Schools Across the Country are Struggling to Find Staff. Here's Why

How do we define competence inside the classroom? What are some of the nuanced differences between special and general education? How does specific language help teachers communicate more clearly? Our conversation with Dr. Paula Lancaster, Dean of the College of Education and Human Services at CMU engages with these questions and more. Dean Lancaster draws on her experience as a special education teacher, faculty member, and Dean to bring so much depth to these timely topics. LinksTeaching WorksHigh Leverage Practices in Special EducationIntroduction Music by: David BiedenbenderOther music from Pixabay:madirfan ZakharValaha Coma-Media Lesfm

Join us in conversation with Hedi Baxter Lauffer. We catch up and learn how plants, science education and having teachers think of themselves as learners all play a part in Hedi's professional background. You don't want to miss a chance to hear from the Director of Teaching and Learning with the Wisconsin Fast Plants Program. Links: FastPlants.orgBSCS Science Curriculum Wisconsin Fast Plants LinkSIMPL ModelAmbitious Science Primer1:1 Techology, 1:1 Plants   Music: RomanBelov from Pixabay

In this companion episode, we're returning to Mr. G and Mrs. Peach's classroom. This time, Julie joins the conversation to look at the ways in which Mr. G elicits student thinking. As a former secondary teacher, Julie has some fresh perspectives to share as she watches and elementary math lesson. This episode includes discussions on differentiation, Core Teaching Practices, engagement, and teacher decision making. Links: Companion Episode: Season 2, Episode 1Core Teaching Practices Intro Music by: David BiedenbenderOther Music found on Pixabay by: madirfinComa-mediaEvgenyBardyzha

In Season 2, we're looking to share the voices of teachers and reflection on the work that they're doing. In this episode, we visit Mrs. Peach's classroom. As she teaches her her small group math lessons, we'll see what we can learn from her decisions and thought process. No matter your grade, experience level, or content area- this episode has something for you. Links: Core Teaching Practices Episode Core Teaching Practices Music By: Music by Coma-Media from PixabayMadirfan LesFmComa-Media Tuesday NightLesFm

Our season closes with a conversation with Rick Joseph. Rick is a National Board Certified Teacher and has taught 5th and 6th grade at Covington School in suburban Detroit since 2003. He previously served as a bilingual educator (Spanish) and trainer for nine years in the Chicago Public Schools. Rick is the 2016 Michigan Teacher of the Year. In our conversation we touch on literacy, STEM, equity, and more. Links: Food DesertsUSDA Data on Food DesertsShare Table ProgramsBenefits of Audiobooks for All LearnersEpisode with Gary Abud Jr. Email Us: biede1aj@cmich.edu

Session 2 is coming! Listen in to hear what's coming. This season we're featuring a mix of interviews and audio captured from schools, workshops, and more! We're focusing on Core Teaching Practices that focus on building respectful relationships, working in small groups, and making content explicit for students. Tune in to learn, celebrate, and grow with and from the teachers around you. Music by:  ItsWatR from Pixabay

Lori Flippin is the  STEM Initiative Leader for the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance. In this episode, we talk about work it takes to make change and build infrastructure for programs in schools. The hard work that teachers do is supported by businesses, partners, and leaders. Lori is one of those leaders sharing the importance of partnering in education, how soft skills and business needs should be a part of the education conversation, and what it takes to support schools. Whether you are from our region or not, this conversation is a fascinating perspective on how school translates to community and the workforce. Links: STEM EcosystemOut of School Time NetworkSTEM CalendarThe STEM Initiative MiCareerQuestChief Science Officers- CMU Chief Science Officers- SVSU Contact LoriMusic by: David Biedenbender Our Website: cmich.edu/stemed

As a Michigan Teacher of the Year, a life-long educator, and executive coach to individuals of all ages, Gary Abud Jr. is uniquely positioned to see how some of the challenges occurring in K - 12 translate beyond the classroom. Join us for a talk that may challenge your assumptions about teaching and invigorate you to question some of your practices. This conversation is a great one to share with individuals who can make changes within the classroom and with the larger system. Links: ScienceWithScarlett.comGreatLakesNow.org/EducationInventingTomorrowMovie.comMTOYnetwork.org5 Practices (book) - Math5 Practices (book) - ScienceSagaEducators.orgTwitter.com/mr_abuda blog post on homeworkMaking Thinking Visible workshop presentation (video) MTOY STEM ResourcesSchools Ditch the GradesMusic by: David Biedenbender 

Can we capture the conversations and experiences of an in-person workshop and bring it to our listeners? That's the challenge  we gave ourselves this summer. This episode is one of a series we'll be bringing you. We've threaded audio from conversations with teachers together with interviews from the team  leading this project and finally project reflections. Listen to the this episode to learn more about Core Teaching Practices, what it means to build respectful classroom relationships, and the concrete steps individuals are taking to grow their own practice.Links: High Leverage Practices: Teaching WorksBuilding Respectful RelationshipsCore Teaching PracticesMusic clips: Music by Lesfm from PixabayMusic by Zen_Man from PixabayMusic by Jacob_Field from PixabayMusic by sscheidl from PixabayMusic by BlenderTimer from PixabayTeacher Wonder Theme Music: David Biedenbender

This episode focuses on how stepping off the stage to learn alongside our students can be equal parts rewarding and scary. In our interview with Dr. Troy Hicks, he shares some of the thinking that goes into this style of teaching- workshopping writing, teacher as coach, teaching online. We dig into the challenges and successes that Troy's worked through and worked on over his teaching career. Ashley discusses her perspective as a former student in Troy's classes, and they compare notes to see if her experiences matched the goals he'd set for his course. Links:Chippewa River Writing ProjectNational Writing ProjectPrimary Sources ProgramDr. Corey Drakes' Episode

Eric Carpenter is back to talk more about what a makerspace model could look like in a school. He shares some ways to think about activity planning and talked about how STEM and makerspace learning should start in a school. This episode is a deep dive, filled with specific examples and ideas for anyone who is on a makerspace journey in education. Links:Makey MakeyEdison RobotsRocky Mountain Education DesignCenter for Excellence in STEM Education

Ashley talks with Eric Carpenter, the Executive Director and Chief Education Designer at Rocky Mountain Education Design. The first in a three-part series, this episode focuses on Eric's entry into education. He shares how he started working with the makerspace model with K - 12 students. Eric discusses the importance of collaboration and brings some practical advice on how makespaces facilitate that process. He also discusses how he handles failure with students. Links:Makey MakeyEdison RobotsRocky Mountain Education DesignCenter for Excellence in STEM Education

In this Bonus Episode, we talked about the ways that COVID changed teaching. The challenges of teaching during this time are not to be minimized; nor are the challenges families and individuals have faced.   In this episode, however, we focus on the changes that Eric thinks will stay in his own work and the teachers he works with. Eric shares some specific experiences that have benefited his learners, and he discussions the examination into personal practice that this past and current season is requiring. Links:Makey MakeyEdison RobotsRocky Mountain Education DesignCenter for Excellence in STEM Education

We met with Doug Oppliger, instructer at MTU and member of the MiSTAR team. We talked with Doug about how writing middle school curriculum transformed his thinking about content and his own teaching. We learn more about the reasons behind this curriculum and the work that went into creating it. Doug brings specific examples of how science and engineering content are interrelated and talks about what it's like to really dig deep into content with middle school and engineering students. Links:MiSTARMichigan Tech UniversityNGSSMichigan Science StandardsShow Music by: David Biedenbender