The DIESOL Podcast covers EdTech in the field of English as a Second or Other Language. The show helps teachers consider best practices for their English Learning students and how to integrate technology into the classroom to help students where they are.
The DIESOL Podcast is a must-listen for anyone in the field of ESOL education who is interested in incorporating technology into their teaching practice. As a longtime ESOL educator and edtech enthusiast, I never miss an episode of this podcast. Brent and Ixchell's podcast is unique in that it focuses specifically on the intersection of ESOL and technology, which is a much-needed resource in the field. Their conversation style keeps me engaged, and I always learn something valuable from each episode. They interview educators and leaders in both fields, providing practical tips and tools that can be applied in the classroom. If you are teaching ESOL, this podcast is essential.
One of the best aspects of The DIESOL Podcast is its conversational style. Listening to this podcast feels like having a discussion with the hosts. This makes it enjoyable to listen to, and I find myself more engaged and able to absorb more of the content. The hosts are also in-service teachers, so their tips and tools are grounded in real-world experience, making them highly applicable in the classroom setting.
While there are no major downsides to this podcast, it would be helpful if there were more episodes released more frequently. As an avid listener, I find myself eagerly awaiting each new episode and wanting more content on a regular basis. However, given that Brent and Ixchell are both working educators themselves, it is understandable that they may not have as much time to dedicate to producing episodes as other podcasts.
In conclusion, The DIESOL Podcast is a highly informative and insightful resource for ESOL educators interested in integrating technology into their teaching practice. The hosts' expertise in both ESOL education and edtech shines through each episode, providing practical advice and relevant research-backed insights. Listening to this podcast not only increases one's knowledge as an educator but also offers an enjoyable experience due to its engaging conversation style. Whether you are an experienced ESOL educator or an aspiring one, this podcast is a valuable listen.
Ready to present at conferences, but don't know where to start? We're here to guide you through the ins and outs of getting your name on the conference program. If you've been attending conferences and you're thinking about the possibility of presenting, we're here to break down the things you should consider. The world needs to hear from you, so make sure your voice is out there! Check out our advice on how to break into the conference presenting world! Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/119
Join Brent and Ixchell as they dive into the top AI questions educators are asking right now. Straight from the TESOL conference, they break down the most pressing concerns about AI tools, from choosing the right platform to understanding classroom applications. Discover practical insights, hear real teacher experiences, and get a clear view of how AI is transforming language education.
Are you heading to TESOL 2025 in Long Beach? Brent and Ixchell share all the details about their presentations, including panels on AI in materials development, AI-generated artwork for language learning, and strategies for individualizing writing. Get the inside scoop on the revival of Drinks with DIESOL as well as their live podcast recording at the conference. They also highlight interesting sessions they're planning to attend, covering everything from social justice issues to neuroscience in language learning. Plus, Brent reveals his exciting new ELT Toolkit being launched through TESOL! Whether you're attending the conference or just curious about what's happening in the TESOL world, this episode offers a useful teacher's preview of what to expect in Long Beach. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/117
Tired of bloated all-in-one platforms that do too much? Discover simple, single-use tools that do one thing well and make your life easier! In this episode, Brent and Ixchell share their favorite free and low-cost tools that can streamline your teaching workflow - most with no logins required. Plus, get the scoop on their upcoming time at TESOL and a potential in-person meetup. Key Takeaways: Discover versatile tools that enhance student engagement and learning Learn about accessible, fuss-free alternatives to complex edtech platforms Gain insights into leveraging technology to boost productivity as an ESL educator Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/116
Feeling overwhelmed by everything happening in the world? You're not alone. In this candid episode, Brent and Ixchell open up about the struggles of coping with uncertainty, stress, and anxiety—both for themselves and their students. They share practical strategies for staying grounded, maintaining mental well-being, and finding small moments of joy in difficult times.
What's the buzz about BlueSky? Should you join the migration from Twitter? In this episode, Brent and Ixchell explore BlueSky, the emerging social media platform educators are flocking to. Reflecting on Twitter's past and this promising alternative, they dive into BlueSky's potential for professional networks and classroom impact. Whether you're curious about its decentralized structure or how it stacks up for educators, this episode will guide you through the ins and outs of this new digital space. Tune in to learn: Why educators are moving from Twitter to BlueSky. BlueSky's unique features, including moderation and data portability. How to build your Professional Learning Network (PLN) on this new platform. Tips on finding and joining BlueSky educator communities. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/114
Conferences are a good place to get a pulse check on what people are thinking about in the field, and with CATESOL 2024 right up the road, Brent chased down educators in the TESOL field to get their impressions of the conference and what they're focusing on these days. Join us to hear straight from a variety of teachers about their insights and takeaways! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/113
If you've got tech in your classroom that you haven't implemented with your students, Jesus Huerta talks us through some of the reasons and ways you should consider bringing Project Based Learning into your English Language Learning classes. Whether it be opening students' minds to the possibilities of language, or just having fun with talking their way through using tech, there are lots of possibilities to explore! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/112
AI is still here and is coming to get us all! This Halloween season Brent and Ixchell bring you a list of thirteen scary approaches to AI. The discussion points range from assumptions about student cheating and AI proficiency to neglecting AI's impact on critical thinking and the digital divide. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/111 Join the mailing list and learn more about Brent's upcoming book: www.DIESOL.org/book
Are deadlines hurting students? Should we adopt more flexible submission policies? In this episode Ixchell & Brent discuss the pros and cons of deadlines: hard, non-existent, and in-between. Join in as we discuss how educators are reconsidering their policies and implementing flexible approaches to foster a more supportive learning environment. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/110 Join the mailing list and learn more about Brent's upcoming book: www.DIESOL.org/book Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Jen Roberts, an experienced high school English teacher, shares her innovative approach to using AI for student feedback and grading. Discover how AI tools are empowering her students, improving their writing, and transforming the feedback process. Hear Jen's insights on the benefits, challenges, and best practices for integrating AI into the classroom. This conversation offers a glimpse into the future of writing instruction and the role technology can play in enhancing the student experience. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the effective use of AI in education. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/109 Join the mailing list and learn more about Brent's upcoming book: www.DIESOL.org/book Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Ice Breakers are a great way for students to get more comfortable with each other, but students may be burnt out on the same old activities or you may be looking for something to distinguish your class from the rest. Listen in for 10 different approaches to Ice Breakers for your new classes or just for a change of pace. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/108 Join the mailing list and learn more about Brent's upcoming book: www.DIESOL.org/book Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Drill activities have gotten a bad rap over the last several years, but is there a place for them in the language learning classroom? Instead of throwing out an entire methodology, let's look at when it's appropriate and when it's not appropriate to use drills. This episode explores how we can build fundamental skillsets without boring students to death. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/107 Join the mailing list and learn more about Brent's upcoming book: www.DIESOL.org/book Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
This is the last of our summer vacation episodes before we return in August! Reminder that you can get on the mailing list to be informed about updates regarding Brent's recently announced book with ISTE, please sign up at www.DIESOL.org/book For now, we wanted to revisit the big question of how AI will impact TESOL as an industry. Some thoughts have changed, some have remained the same - all are worth us continuing to discuss. You can find the original show notes for this episode at www.DIESOL.org/88
We're on vacation taking just a little time off to allow room for some international moves and wrapping up of projects. Reminder that you can get on the mailing list to be informed about updates regarding Brent's recently announced book with ISTE, please sign up at www.DIESOL.org/book For now, as you're stepping into summer, that may mean chances to catch up on your PD! Step back in time with us to Episode 98 where we talked about 7 ways to fit PD into your busy schedule. You can find the original show notes for this episode at www.DIESOL.org/98
We're taking just a little time off to allow room for some international moves and wrapping up of projects. But first, listen in for a BRAND NEW ANNOUNCEMENT about Brent's latest project... or if you already listened and just want to get on the mailing list, please sign up at www.DIESOL.org/book In the meantime, enjoy a revisit to a few episodes that continue to provide value and can spark some ideas you forgot about over the last year. We're starting off with our January episode of 24 Tools for 2024 and a chance to look at some ways you can integrate interesting tools into your classes. You can find the original show notes for this episode at www.DIESOL.org/96
What's the best way to teach grammar? Explicitly laying out the rules for students, or giving them opportunities to discover it as they go? The research is clear, but it's probably not what you were taught in your teaching program. In this episode Ixchell and Brent explore the realities of Deductive vs. Inductive grammar teaching. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/106 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Do you love the idea of music in your teaching but struggle to find songs that fit your teaching needs? In this episode Brent and Ixchell share all about how AI can help bring customized, language focused music right into your classroom
In today's episode, we explore classroom observations and how to prepare for one. Join us as we discuss strategies to shift your mindset, engage students effectively, and avoid common pitfalls during observations. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a new teacher, this episode will equip you with practical tips to ace your next classroom observation. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/104 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Brent A. Jones is currently the Director of Language Programs at Konan University, Hirao School of Management, joins us to share about how he and his colleagues built a Content & Language Integrated Learning program that uses practical and applicable skillsets while acquiring English in a setting where most people don't speak English. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/103 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Ever wondered how AI-generated images could transform language learning beyond just saving time? Join us on this episode of DIESOL, where we explore the uncharted territories of AI in language education. Ixchell & Brent try to break down the the self-scaffolding process of image generation and language development. Topics include: Discussing the potential of AI images in active language development. Exploring the shift from passive to active engagement with language through image generation. Highlighting the immediate feedback loop offered by AI, enabling real-time language and concept adjustment. Addressing the pedagogical implications of this novel approach to language learning. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/102 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Ever wonder how you can inspire your teaching team to embrace PD, despite their busy schedules or PD resistance? Tune in to this episode to uncover practical solutions that bring professional development into the daily routine without the dread. Understanding Resistance: Recognizing some of the common obstacles to PD, from time constraints to skepticism about new methods. Building a PD Community: Tips for fostering a culture of shared learning and collaboration within your school or department. Redefining Professional Development: Discover alternatives to traditional PD that resonate with busy teachers. Brown Bag PD Sessions: Learn how to start informal, peer-led sessions that can transform your team's approach to professional growth. Listen in to reinvision how you and your colleagues think about professional development in a local and supportive environment! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/101 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon
Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/100 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Do you find that you don't have enough time to customize your lessons and materials in the way that you want for your students? In this episode of The DIESOL Podcast, discover how AI can revolutionize your classroom prep strategies, offering personalized, innovative solutions to help you get ready for your curriculum, your lessons, your daily activities, and more. Listen in as we explore possibilities of integrating AI into your prep time, ensuring your lessons are as dynamic and effective as possible. Listen in for: Strategies for curriculum building with AI, tailoring content to meet your class's unique needs. Tips for crafting engaging lesson plans that captivate students and streamline your teaching process. Creative ideas for classroom activities and management techniques that save time and enhance learning. How to personalize learning materials quickly and efficiently, keeping content relevant and stimulating. And a lot more! We want to hear from you! Episode 100 will feature the voices of the #DIESOLcrew, and you're invited to share! Let us know your top tip for teaching, whether it be a strategy, an activity, or a tool you couldn't live without. Share with us for 1-2 minutes and we may add it into the show! It's super easy at this link: http://www.speakpipe.com/DIESOL Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/99 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Are you a busy educator looking for practical ways to integrate professional development into your hectic schedule? Brent Warner and Ixchell Reyes share 7 practical strategies and resources to customize your professional development journey, ensuring it fits seamlessly into your daily routine. In this episode: Discover how to organize your podcasts for targeted professional growth. Explore platforms like edX and LinkedIn Learning for free, flexible courses from top universities. Making sure your social media works for you, and not the other way around. And more! Got other ideas that would help? Let us know! Visit the show notes or drop us a line so we can share out with more teachers. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/98 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Dive into the inspiring journey of Mahmoud, an English instructor and former artillery field member, in DIESOL podcast episode 97. Discover how Mahmoud, also known as Polaris, built his English language skills on his own terms, fostering a unique perspective on self-empowered language learning. His experiences, from offering free tours on the streets of Jordan to teaching English, offer valuable insights for both students and teachers. Tune in to hear about his innovative approaches to language learning and teaching. Key discussion points in the episode: Polaris' path from student-leader to teacher. The role of self-motivation and cultural immersion in language learning. Challenges faced by Arabic-speaking students in learning English. Innovative teaching methods and technology use in language education. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/97 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Happy new year! In this episode Brent and Ixchell dive into 24 tools to explore: lesson planning, time-savers, AI-infused search engines, angent builders, and more! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/96 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
EdTech Trainer Greg Foreman joins us to talk about helping teachers get on board with technology use in the classroom, how to avoid overwhelming the tech resistant, and focusing in on what's important. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/95 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
What are “Agents” and “GPTs” and most importantly, what does it matter in the ELT setting? We break it down and talk about some of the implications for what these “next wave” implementations of AI might mean for you and your future teaching. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/94 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
This month we interviewed Clare Kaneko, current president of JALT (Japan Association of Language Teaching). We spent time chatting about the mission of the organization, how it's structured, and what they do as a PD organization for language teachers. We also discussed the upcoming 2023 JALT conference happening from the 24th to the 27th of November in Tsukuba Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/93 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
All good things come to an end. Do not worry! We are still here, just no longer on Twitter. This year we are saying our official goodbye to Twitter. Brent and Ixchell discuss why they made the decision to leave the platform and why they felt it no longer aligned with the reason they initially joined. Have you been considering transitioning to other platforms for similar reasons? We have a few tips on that too! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/92 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
We all know students can have some scary habits that block their language learning. To step into the Halloween Season, listen in as we share some ideas about how to help them escaped the “haunted house” of bad habits! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/91 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Ryan O'Donnell has been building out slide decks to play classroom versions of famous game shows for years. Join us as he shares some favorites and we figure out applications for ESOL classrooms! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/90 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Every student has some amazing technology in the palm of their hands, but how often do we ask them to use their cameras in class? In this episode, Ixchell & Brent explore some possibilities for students to better engage with language through their cameras! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/89 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe to the show on YouTube Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
There's a lot of concern around AI and what will happen to teaching jobs, especially in the field of TESOL. Are they legitimate? Will AI Kill TESOL? Certainly disruption is inevitable, so listen in as Brent and Ixchell discuss the possibilities and where concerns are legitimate vs where people can take control of their own teaching futures. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/88 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Happy beginning of summer! ChatGPT isn't even a year old and we have seen the number of tools relying on AI grow exponentially since its inception. Is there something you want to try out before starting back in the fall? Here's what we have for you! In this episode Brent and Ixchell give you twelve AI tools to explore this summer at your leisure. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/87 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Join in on this open conversation with Katie McNamara about Media Literacy, changes in teacher preparedness for working with ELLs, developing a sense of inclusion, and more! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/80 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
School's out for the summer! Many students will return to their home country and take a break from the books. Inevitably, there will be less language interaction in English, and students worry about their skills decreasing over the summer. How can students ensure they still practice independently until the return of fall term? In this episode Brent and Ixchell share some fun ideas for students to continue using English through the summer. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/85 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Why are language learners so drawn to learning the curse words so often as they begin playing with their target language? Should we be teaching cursing in class? In what context? Explicit language has huge cultural implications and is one of the first things ELLs learn, but we almost never teach it. Listen in as we discuss teachers' responsibilities around bad language. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/84 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Join us as we speak with Taiwanese ESOL instructor Maj. Jojo. who has begun incorporating ChatGPT into his language classes for EFL learners in Taiwan. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/83 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
How necessary or useful are idioms for language learners? Can idioms be more of a roadblock at different language proficiency levels? Join Brent and Ixchell in a conversation about how to strike a balance in teaching and exploring language through idioms. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/82 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
The conversation around Artificial Intelligence is only starting to grow. There's a lot to continue to explore. In previous episodes we made predictions about the future of AI in our field, then we discussed theory with Eric Roth upon the launch of ChatGPT. Now that we've had some time to play with it, we're talking practical uses in the classroom and in the office. Of course, this conversation is too big for a single episode, so with the endless questions coming in, we decided to launch a side offering at AIinESL.com. Please feel free to check it out as we develop the site, and SHARE with us if you have experiences using AI with your students. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/81 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
In this episode, special guest, Sallie Finklea joins us to discuss English War Games, a unique approach to gamification in the ESOL classroom. We chat about how she comes up with language-related scenarios that promote speaking and authentic use of language while supporting autonomous learning. High tech or low tech, this approach can be applied to engage students in week-long segments of a concept. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/80 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Ixchell & Brent break down students names and nicknames and cover the blurry lines between encouraging them to use their given names, helping them understand their "English name" meanings, and respecting the names that students choose for themselves. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/79 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
In Episode 78, we sit down with Jose Goulette to talk about simple and practical ways to engage students and motivate learning. Jose has easy ways to turn everyday resources like Uno cards and strings & pencils into fun learning activities with the class. Join in to hear how Jose integrates Gamification & Game Based Learning into his classes without a lot of extra effort. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/78 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Happy Year of the Rabbit! In this episode, Brent and Ixchell share 23 tools to explore or have on your radar. AI and implications of ChatGPT are taking the education world by storm--how will new tools shape and define the way we approach teaching? What oldies but goodies are worth looking at again in 2023? Join us as we talk through what caught our attention for the new year. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/77 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
A couple of weeks ago, ChatGPT exploded onto the scene, and teachers across the globe are scrambling to understand how this automated writing technology will affect every aspect of their teaching, pedagogy, and careers. While nobody has the answers, it's important to open up the conversation and make sure ESOL Teachers have an idea of what they're stepping into. This open conversation with Professor Eric H Roth explores the perils and potential of AI and automated writing in the classroom. Listen in today, and please let us know how you'll be approaching this shift in the paradigm of teaching. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/76 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
Flippity.net has provided a handy way to turn basic information into interactive games and resources for years. Brent & Ixchell look at a number of ways TESOL Teachers can use Flippity in the ESOL Classroom. If you have any of your ideas, please share them using the show notes below! Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/75 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
The connection between coding and teaching English Language Learners may seem like a far stretch, but Holly Sawyer has made the link and has helped students learn practical, future ready skills at the same time as improving their language. Join us as we hear from Holly about her innovative approach to teaching English with coding, game development, robotics, and more. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/74 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
What do we mean when we speak of accessibility in the language classroom? Are there guidelines available for assessing what we currently provide for our students? What factors do we need to keep in mind when making materials accessible for language learners? In this episode Brent and Ixchell discuss the importance of accessibility in TESOL and share some points to consider to ensure your material is accessible for your students. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/73 Want to support the show? Leave us a review right here in your podcatcher! Subscribe on Patreon or Buy us a Coffee Thank you!!
All of us are guilty of implementing some "not best" practices. For this spooky special episode, Brent & Ixchell discuss 13 of the worst offenders in the English Language Learning classroom. How many of these are YOU guilty of??
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