What's the Big Idea?

In which Dan chats with Jesse Hagopian about the urgent need to teach truthful history in America's classrooms. Jesse is the author of the excellent book Teach Truth: The Struggle for Antiracist Education and he's an eloquent speaker on the need to push back against right-wing whitewashing. Jesse and Dan talk about the return of colorblindness, the gentrification of history, and why grassroots action is the only way out. As always I welcome comments and questions on BlueSky @dankearney and on Instagram @_dankearney_If you're in or near Los Angeles this summer, check out Learning Adventures Workshop with Dr. Gary Stager on June 30.New podcast alert! Tune into But I Won't Do That, an irreverent look at the music, lyrics, and videos of some favorite pop hits.Mentioned in the episode:Teach Truth: The Struggle for Antiracist Education by Jesse Hagopian"Oklahoma education standards say students must identify 2020 election 'discrepancies'", NPR, May 14, 2025Zinn Education Project -- lots of incredible resources and lessons for teaching truthMusic: "Sunflower" by Soyb (Youtube Audio Library)

In which Dan chats with Dr. Gary Stager, teacher, professor, author, and consultant (among other things) and a true constructivist. Gary is the founder of the Constructing Modern Knowledge summer institute for educators and the co-author of Invent To Learn – Making, Tinkering, and Engineering in the Classroom.Dan and Gary talk about Gary's dear friend, the late Seymour Papert, and the meaning of a computer in a classroom, phones in schools, Gary's experience teaching in a prison in Maine, and why reading from actual books is so vital.As always I welcome comments and questions on BlueSky @dankearney and on Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the episode:Invent to Learn: Making, Tinkering, and Engineering in the Classroom by Gary StagerTwenty Things to Do with a Computer Forward 50 by Gary StagerThe Children's Machine: Rethinking School in the Age of the Computer by Seymour PapertSeymour Papert Obituary from MIT NewsTorture in a Maine Prison from Prison Legal NewsMathworlds, the Substack from Dan MeyerFrom Lunchboxes to Laptops: How Maine Went One-to-One by Audrey WatersThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtThe Most Compelling Argument Against Tech in Schools from Haidt's After Babel SubstackMusic: SPEAKEASY STRUTroyalty free Music by Giorgio Di Campo for @FreeSound Music http://freesoundmusic.eu

In which Dan chats with Anya Kamenetz, an author, speaker, and reporter who's done lots of big thinking on the most important issues facing our world. Anya writes The Golden Hour Substack; she covered education for many years for NPR; and her newest book is The Stolen Year: How Covid Changed Children's Lives, And Where We Go Now.Dan and Anya talk discuss capitalism, measurement in education, climate change as school curriculum, Wikipedia, AI, and more. As always, I welcome comments and feedback on Bluesky (@dankearney) and Instagram (@BigIdeaEd).Mentioned in the episode:The Golden Hour on SubstackThe Stolen Year: How COVID Changed Children's Lives, and Where We Go Now by Anya KamenetzThe Test: Why Our Schools are Obsessed with Standardized Testing–But You Don't Have to Be by Anya Kamenetz The U.S. Economy Is Racing Ahead. Almost Everything Else Is Falling Behind by David Leonhardt, NY TimesHow to Raise Kids to Identify Misinformation by Anya Kamentez, The Integrity ProjectNJ Climate Change Education ResourcesAn Educator's Guide to Climate Emotions Tech Won't Save Us, a podcast from Paris MarxThe Generative AI Con by Ed Zitron

In which Dan chats with Cindy Blackburn, Director of Learning and Engagement at Toddle, about curriculum, that "dirty word" at many progressive schools. Cindy is also the host of the School Leaders Project podcast, where she interviews leading minds in progressive education. Dan and Cindy talk about why curriculum design and mapping can be so so sticky in schools, lessons from the International Baccalaureate, and the future of artificial intelligence in schools. Mentioned in the show:Toddle, a leading learning management system for IB and progressive schoolsSchool Leaders Project, a podcast from Toddle and hosted by Cindy BlackburnStreamlining the Curriculum: Using the Storyboard Approach to Frame Compelling Learning Journeys, by Heidi Jacobs Hayes and Allison Zmuda11th Grader Takes An AI Tutoring Deep Dive, from Education NextTwo-Sigma Tutoring: Separating Science Fiction from Science Fact from Education NextConnect with Dan on Instagram @BigIdeaEd and Blue Sky @dankearneyMusic: Sunflower by Soyb (Youtube Audio Library)

In which Dan chats with Olina Banerji, a reporter for EdWeek who recently wrote a great article, "Schools Are Eerily Quiet About the Election Results, Educators Say." Dan and Olina talk about why "the impact never came" following Donald Trump's election, how different stakeholders are processing the results, and what Olina and her colleagues could be reporting on in the weeks leading up to inauguration day.See also:EdWeek - The public education paper of record"Teachers toss their lesson plans, give students the floor to grapple with Trump win" from Chalkbeat"Moreno Valley teacher on administrative leave after making anti-Trump remarks in class" from ABC7Music: Gingersweet from Massobeats

In which Dan sits down (in person!) with Oshri Hakak (@oshrihakak), children's author, mental health advocate, and all-around deep thinker about the world we live in. Oshri collaborates with NAMI Westside Los Angeles (@namiwla) to talk with students young and old about the importance of breaking the silence around mental health and strategies for taking care of ourselves and each other. He's also a prolific author whose books are beautiful and poignant for children and adults alike. Mentioned in the show:National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI)NAMI Westside Los AngelesOshri Hakak's books, including Harry and the Hamster WheelOshri's Children's Mental Health ToolboxMusic: gingersweet by massobeats [via No Copyright Background Music]

In which Dan talks about addressing hard topics and fielding tough questions from our smallest students with Kat Nguyen, a Kindergarten teacher in California. How do early childhood teachers address the questions and comments that inevitably arise, especially in this hypermedia era when students of all ages are likely to notice, see, overhear and wonder?Dan and Kat talk about being honest, authentic, and vulnerable with students, the perils of this election year, and her book recommendations for young students.Books mentioned in the episode:No Turkey For Thanksgiving by Jacqueline Jules and Kathryn MitterRed: A Crayon's Story by Michael HallStand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell and David CatrowMusic: Que Es Estraño by Molo

In which Dan talks about how teachers can feel prepared and empowered to teach and talk about the upcoming election. He's joined by Erica Hodgin from Facing History and Ourselves, truly the gold standard for approaching difficult history and civic topics in K-12 classrooms.This election will bring unique opportunities and challenges for all teachers (not just social studies teachers!) and meeting this moment means thinking about ourselves, our classrooms, and how we'll foster civil discourse when emotionally charged topics come up.Even more than that, Erica discusses why it's vital to engage young people in the democratic process and civic life beyond textbooks.Mentioned in the episode:From Facing HistoryCivic education landing pageDemocracy in Action: Teaching about the 2024 Election & Educating for Civic ParticipationTeaching about Voting and ElectionsBack to School ToolkitFostering Civil Discourse GuideTeaching Resources for US Elections CollectionDemocracy and Current Events ToolkitMusic: We Have a Tripod 

In which Dan discusses the nature of technology with Dan Krutka, an associate professor at the University of North Texas, a prolific academic writer, and one of the founders of Civics of Technology, a project and online community founded on something Dan calls technoskepticism.  Whether you're an educator or just someone who enjoys thinking about how technology impacts our lives, this conversation is for you. After exploring the question of phones in schools, Dan and Dan unpack technoskepticism and why and how we (and our students) can think more deeply about our interaction with technology.Mentioned:Civics of Technology"What Relationships Do We Want with Technology?", Harvard Educational Review by Pleasants, Krutka, Nichols"Anti-Social Media: Teaching Slow Responses to Fast Media", Social Education by KrutkaThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtThe Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas CarrFrankenstein by Mary ShelleyThe works of Ruha BenjaminA World Without Email: Reimagining Work in an Age of Communication Overload by Cal NewportThe Social DilemmaMusic by Lights in LA

In which Dan talks with Garreth Heidt, an educator in Pennsylvania who's spent a career thinking about and practicing how education could be different. Garreth leads the Nova LAB program at Perkiomen Valley HS. Dan and Garreth discuss human systems and agency, risk taking in the classroom, challenging the status quo, and empowering students to see beyond grades and find purpose. I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Twitter, and Threads @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the episode:Nova LAB at Perkiomen High SchoolWhy John Dewey's vision for education and democracy still resonates today from The ConversationFuture Search NetworkThe Path to Purpose: How Young People Find Their Calling in Life by Bill DamonPure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation and Taking 20% Time to the Next Level by Don WettrickWayfinder A Whack on the Side of the Head: How You Can Be More Creative by Roger von OechMusic by Smart Toaster 

In which Dan chats with Tyler Rablin (@Mr_Rablin) about how teachers can make assessment really work for student motivation, purpose, and confidence. Tyler is a teacher and instructional coach in Washington, and he's the author of the new book Hacking Student Motivation: 5 Assessment Strategies That Boost Learning Progression & Build Student Confidence. Dan and Tyler talk about the nature of student motivation in 2024 and online gradebooks before turning to Tyler's book. Tyler lays out specific, actionable ways that teachers can make assessment work for students, and it makes for a great read. Dan and Tyler discuss his thoughts on feedback, learning progressions, and what Tyler calls an "informative gradebook." They wrap up by talking about phones in schools and why removing them creates a more authentic, productive environment.As always, I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter (X) @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Hacking Student Motivation: 5 Assessment Strategies That Boost Learning Progression & Build Student Confidence by Tyler Rablin, February 2024Assessment with Tyler Rablin, What's the Big Idea?, April 2021Introducing the HyperRubric: A Tool that Takes Learning to the Next Level (featuring Tyler Rablin), Cult of Pedagogy, August 2021Tyler Rablin on Twitter (X), where he shares many excellent ideas and resourcesSupport me on Patreon, where a $5 monthly membership gets you a cool sticker! Music: Red Funk by Ruben Ramos

In which Dan comments on our nation's obsession with STEM education and misaligned priorities. We've been sold a story by industry leaders that STEM jobs are the future; we lionize tech and math nerds; we push kids to take the highest possible math classes. Why?Looking at some of our biggest problems that humanity faces – – climate change, sectarian violence, political paralysis, authoritarianism— and it's clear that while technology can, has, and always will play a vital role, it's foolish to think that technology will save us. We can't simply tech our way out of our problems.This isn't an anti-STEM rant. It's a call for a more balanced approach. Mentioned in the episode:Math Anxiety Is Real. Here's How To Help Your Child Avoid It, NPR, Sept. 2020College Preparation, Undergraduate Admissions, University of MichiganCan We Please Stop Talking About Harvard?, Have You Heard, Jan. 2024Bad Idea: Prioritizing STEM Education at the Expense of Civic Education, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dec. 2020The Fantasy Economy: Neoliberalism, Inequality, and the Education Reform Movement by Neil KrausIs There Really a STEM Workforce Shortage? by Ron Hira, Issues in Science and Technology, Summer 2022

In which Dan talks about the challenges facing girls today--and reasons for optimism--with Donna Jackson Nakazawa. Donna is the author of seven books, most recently Girls on the Brink: Helping Our Daughters Thrive in an Era of Increased Anxiety, Depression, and Social Media. Dan and Donna talk about the multitude of stressors facing girls today and how their biology uniquely interacts with that stress. Then they talk about some of the implications for schools before turning to what Donna calls "antidotes", strategies and mindsets for the adults in girls' lives to help them thrive.As always I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Threads, and X @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Girls on the Brink: Helping Our Daughters Thrive in an Era of Increased Anxiety, Depression, and Social Media by Donna Jackson NakazawaChildhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal by Donna Jackson NakazawaThe Angel and the Assassin: The Tiny Brain Cell That Changed the Course of Medicine by Donna Jackson NakazawaFacebook Knows Instagram Is Toxic for Teen Girls, Company Documents Show, Wall Street Journal, Sept 2021Social media is driving teen mental health crisis, surgeon general warns, NBC News, May 2023Conference to Restore Humanity 2024 from Human Restoration ProjectMusic by Stars in LA

In which Dan talks media literacy--the skills needed to responsibly decode, assess, and create media--with Tim Krueger, a Social Studies teacher in Syracuse, New York, and someone who's been doing a ton of thinking and teaching about this essential topic. The proliferation of information, misinformation, and disinformation (especially as we enter an election year), all super charged by social media, partisan divides and, now, artificial intelligence, makes now the perfect time for teachers to dive into media literacy.Mentioned in the episode:Verified: How to Think Straight, Get Duped Less, and Make Better Decisions about What to Believe Online by Mike Caulfield and Sam Wineburg"Internet at School Is Changing Work of Students--and Teachers", Washington Post, Sept, 2000Media Literacy Now, an advocacy group calling for states to mandate media literacy curriculumNews Literacy Project provides a rich bank of resources and learning platforms for teachers at all grade levelsHow to Teach Media and News Literacy with Ebonee Rice, What's the Big Idea?, Nov, 2021 Adfontes Media Bias Chart - an incredible visual tool for exploring media outlets "When Teens Find Misinformation, These Teachers Are Ready" (featuring Tim Krueger), NY Times, Sept 2022"Elections and Disinformation Are Colliding Like Never Before in 2024", NY Times, Jan 2024"Fake Joe Biden robocall tells New Hampshire Democrats not to vote Tuesday", NBC News, Jan 2024Music by Ruben Ramos

In which Dan takes a few minutes to share his thoughts on the power of putting students in a position to hear and reflect on personal stories. Drawing on recent experiences with a Holocaust survivor and an immigration unit, Dan talks about how one great avenue to authentic assessment (see also: can't be replicated by ChatGPT) and student buy-in is in-person storytelling connected to their studies.As always, I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Threads, and X @BigIdeaEdFlash draft: n. a work of writing that is done quickly without editingMentioned in the episode:Teachers Fear ChatGPT Will Make Cheating Easier Than Ever by Rashi Shrivastava, ForbesChatGPT Is Making Universities Rethink Plagiarism by Sophia Barnett, WiredSome Ideas for Using ChatGPT in Middle and High School Classes by Geoff Richman, EdutopiaHolocaust Museum LACover photo: Joseph AlexanderEpisode music: "Imperfect" from Lofi free beats

In which Dan explores the power of outdoor experiential learning with Fulcrum Adventures, a Los Angeles-based company and leader in the team building and outdoor youth development space. Their motto is Do. Risk. Grow. Dan talks with Leo Van Warmerdam, program director, and Racine Camara,  one of Fulcrum's facilitators, about the power of learning outside, reflection, and, ultimately, letting young people be themselves.As always, I welcome comments and questions on X, Threads, and Instagram @BigIdeaEd-----------Mentioned in the show:Fulcrum AdventuresIt's time to log off and touch grass by Catriona MortonAngela Hanscom has the remedy for our kids' overly structured, overly scheduled world from What's the Big IdeaMusic by Stars in LA

In which Dan talks about puberty--that rite of passage that many of us would sooner forget--and how for kids today it looks and feels so very different from a generation ago. He talks to Dr. Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll Bennett, hosts of the excellent Puberty Podcast and co-authors of the forthcoming book This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained. Dan, Cara, and Vanessa discuss the role adults play in the lives of adolescents, technology, the adolescent brain, and what schools are getting right and could do better. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the episode:The Puberty Podcast, hosted by Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll BennettPre-order This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained Music by Stars in LA

In which Dan talks with Celeste Kirsh, middle school educator, podcast host, and Ph.D. student. Celeste is a deeply reflective and thoughtful person, and so Dan picks her brain about digital media literacy, teaching young people to write, and why we should be hopeful about the future. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @bigideaedFeatured on the show and further reading:Teaching Tomorrow Podcast, produced and hosted by Celeste KirshCivix CanadaCountering Truth Decay by RAND (a report on digital literacy)"How ChatGPT robs students of motivation to write and think for themselves" by Naomi Baron"ChatGPT will fundamentally change how we teach writing; that's a good thing" by Christopher Mah"ChatGPT and Writing Assessment, an Old Problem Made New" by John WarnerConference to Restore Humanity from Human Restoration Project*Enter promo code BIGIDEA at checkout for a $25 discount*Music by Stars in LA

In which Dan talks with Annie Abrams, public school teacher and author of the new book Shortchanged: How Advanced Placement Cheats Students. Dan was always skeptical of the AP for reasons related to cost and its content-heavy nature, but after reading Abrams' rich analysis and critique of the program, it's clear that there's a lot more to it than that. Dan and Annie discuss why the AP has such reach in America's high schools, how teacher autonomy and student agency are damaged by AP courses, and possible solutions. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Shortchanged: How Advanced Placement Cheats Students by Annie AbramsCulver City eliminates honors English in attempt to reach racial equity by KQEDTime to Slay the College Board Dragon by Michael Hynesconference to restore humanity! 2023 from Human Restoration Project*enter code bigidea at checkout for a $25 discount*Music by Barry Moore

In which Dan interviews Yehudah Potok, Director of Jewish Education Program and  Lead for the Antisemitism Project at Facing History and Ourselves.  A recent uptick in antisemitism around the U.S. had Dan wondering about the state of Holocaust education, so he reached out to Facing History, which has long been a leading voice in education for authentic, deep learning around hard topics like racism and antisemitism. Dan and Yehudah discuss Facing History's unique approach to curriculum and pedagogy, the role of social media in spreading hate like antisemitism, and why, perhaps, we've done too good a job teaching the Holocaust.I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the episode:Antisemitism is on the rise, and it's not just about Ye from NPRThe State of Holocaust Education in America from Moment MagazineA Convenient Hatred: The History of Antisemitism from Facing History and OurselvesHolocaust and Human Behavior from Facing History and OurselvesExplorations Workshop from Facing History and OurselvesTeaching for Justice & Equity from Facing History and OurselvesAntisemitism Explainer from Facing History and OurselvesMusic: mel unfiltered via Youtube Audio Library

In which Dan discusses history, representation, and America's blindspots with Femi Redwood (@femiredwood), journalist and host of the podcast Beyond Black History Month, which has just kicked off its second season. They talk about the very idea of Black History Month in both schools and American media, the country's reluctance to engage with history, significant topics that are being overlooked, and the importance of representation in our institutions. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Beyond Black History Month, hosted by Femi RedwoodFlorida Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration rejects African American AP course, ABC NewsMore Than a Month, directed by Shukree Hassan TilghmanOyotunji, South CarolinaTeaching Resources:Zinn Education ProjectFacing History and OurselvesLearning For JusticeEqual Justice InitiativeMusic: "It'll Be Alright", mel unfiltered via Youtube Audio Library

In which Dan learns all about the book adaptation process from Rebecca Stefoff (@RebeccaStefoff), author of numerous fiction and nonfiction titles. Notably, Rebecca has adapted important works by Howard Zinn, Ronald Takaki, and Charles Darwin, and her efforts have made seminal texts such as A People's History of the United States accessible for young people. Dan and Rebecca talk about her career as an author, how she goes about adapting, and why it's so vital to get these ideas in the hands of the youth.Mentioned in the episode:A Young People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn, adapted Rebecca StefoffA Different Mirror for Young People: A History of Multicultural America by Ronald Takaki, adapted by Rebecca StefoffOn the Origin of Species: Young Readers Edition by Charle Darwin, adapted by Rebecca StefoffHow to Change Everything: The Young Human's Guide to Protecting the Planet and Each Other by Naomi Klein, adapted by Rebecca StefoffAs always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMusic: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo via Creative Commons Media

In which Dan talks with Kindra Neely (@kindraneely), author of the new graphic memoir Numb to This: Memoir of a Mass Shooting.  Neely is a survivor of the 2015 shooting at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon. Numb to This is both a documentary of the events and an intimate personal account of the human toll of a mass shooting. Neely explores the role of media in covering mass shootings, the stress that such traumas place on relationships, the recurrence of mass shootings in America and, in the book's most poignant, difficult, and tense scene, Neely's own suicide attempt. Numb to This is an important book for this national moment.If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMusic: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo via Creative Commons Media

In which Dan chats with Monte Syrie (@MonteSyrie) about the gains, pains, and learning that comes with being a professional educator. Our fast-paced, get-it-now culture can lead teachers to think that they should be polished and amazing NOW. Monte's career, and reflection on that career, suggest that patience is a virtue and that we can all grow into greatness. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd Mentioned in the show:Project 180 by Monte SyrieMonte's writing for EdutopiaBetter: A Teacher's Journey by Monte SyrieMusic: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo via Creative Commons Media

In which Dan asks a bunch of really smart educators, "What have the past two+ years taught us?" We're entering another school year of pandemic teaching and learning, so what do we have to show for it? Forget the think pieces online and the ranting at local school board meetings; what can these innovative teachers tell us about where education has (and hasn't) gone since March 2020? As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd Guests on the show:Celeste Kirsch - host of the Teaching Tomorrow Podcast, @teaching_tomorrow Jonathan Gold - check out his articles for Learning for Justice, @jonathansgoldKayla Duncan - co-author of Learning That Transfers, @MrsKaylaDuncanLeo Thompson - of the Council of International Schools, check out his thoughts on education over at LinkedInTanay Naik - educator at UNIS Hanoi, @tnaikNick Covington - Creative Director at the Human Restoration Project and prolific, insightful tweeter @CovingtonEDUJulia Fliss - Colorado educator and @SDG ambassador, @JuliaFlissJessica Kirkland - Virginia educator full of good ideas @jkirk___Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo

In which Dan chats with author Barbara Dee about her work writing powerful novels about middle school students, for middle school students. Barbara's 13th novel comes out this fall, and her books take on issues ranging from mental health to addiction to eco-anxiety. Dan and Barbara discuss how she finds the sweet spot in writing fiction at the middle school level, her characters, her career, and her views on the current wave of censorship sweeping through America's schools and libraries. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara DeeViolets Are Blue by Barbara DeeStarcrossed by Barbara DeeBarbara Dee onlineMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan examines the behemoth that is traditional grading--you know, the A-F and 0-100 scales, and GPAs. Dan is joined by Susan Blum (@SusanDebraBlum) who has done a ton of thinking, speaking, and writing about how teachers can move away from this crude, harmful practice and towards something called ungrading. Susan edited and contributed to Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead). She talks with Dan about why grading is not at all about learning, how it's baked into our educational system and expectations, and what teachers can start doing now to ungrade. As always, comments and questions are welcomed on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the episode:Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead) edited by Susan BlumThe Schools Our Children Deserve by Alfie KohnMastery Transcript ConsortiumThe Ungrading Handbook from the Human Restoration ProjectGrading ≠ Assessment from the Human Restoration ProjectMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan takes a close look at the recent spread of censorship aimed at schools and libraries across the United States. Hundreds (!) of new laws have been proposed in just months that would put teachers and curriculums under the microscope, and books are being pulled from shelves. The common denominator? The ideas and books being questioned all challenge orthodox views of American society, history, and family. To begin, Dan is joined by Jonathan Friedman from PEN America to talk about gag order laws proliferating across the country (5:40). They discuss how the 1619 Project should be seen as ground zero for this latest censorship push, and then talk through the goals and consequences of the gag order laws coming out of state houses around America. Then Dan talks to Christine Emeran from the National Coalition Against Censorship about why books are coming under attack across the country (33:00). As always I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd Mentioned in the episode:"A Tennessee school board removed the graphic novel ‘Maus,' about the Holocaust" (CNN)"'Don't Say Gay' bill passes Florida Senate" (ABC)The 1619 Project from the NY TimesEducational Gag Orders: Legislative Restrictions on the Freedom to Read, Learn, and Teach from PEN America. Lead author: Jonathan FriedmanKids' Right to Read Action Kit from the National Coalition Against CensorshipResponding to Book Challenges: A Handbook for Teachers from the National Coalition Against CensorshipYouth Censorship Database from the National Coalition Against Censorship"How a YA oral-sex scene touched off Texas' latest culture war" from Texas TribuneMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan interviews Monica Brady-Myerov, founder and CEO of Listenwise, a learning platform that helps teachers bring podcasts and other audio into the classroom. Before starting Listenwise, Monica was an award-winning public radio journalist, and Dan and Monica talk about what she learned about storytelling during those years. Then they discuss why schools need to do more to teach listening skills and how Listenwise is set up to do exactly that. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd Mentioned in the episode:Listenwise, a learning platform that brings audio into the classroomA sample of Monica's reporting on the opioid crisisListen Wise: Teach Students to Be Better Listeners by Monica Brady-MyerovThe Student Podcast PODCAST, highlighting outstanding student workMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan chats with Molly Josephs, the adult who works on This Teenage Life, a podcast hosted by teens to talk about issues that matter to them. Dan and Molly discuss how TTL got its start, why student voices are more important than ever, and why the real goal is honest, productive conversation. They also talk about how teachers everywhere can (and should!) try out podcasting in the classroom. Always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the episode:This Teenage Life's website, featuring resources that accompany the episodes"Text Etiquette" (episode)"Book Magic" (episode)"Snacks" (episode)Student projects at High Tech High My own students podcasts Music:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan and special guest co-host Kim Dzwonkowski talk with  Angela Hanscom about the importance of getting kids outside, away from overly structured activities and hovering adults. Angela is the best-selling author of Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children and the founder of Timbernook. Dan, Kim, and Angela talk about how our overly scheduled, overly supervised world is wrecking havoc on children's mental, emotional, and physical development, and why getting kids outside is the key to turning it around. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd Also mentioned in this episode:The REAL reason children fidget — and what we can do about it (TED Talk) by Angela HanscomMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan talks with Ebonee Rice (@EboneeSpeaks), Senior VP of Educator Network at the News Literacy Project. They talk about the unprecedented amount of information at our fingertips, the danger of passive media consumption, the importance of understanding how news gets made, and the incredible work of the News Literacy Project.  Mentioned in the show:Why do people claim things that can be easily disproven with a Google search?Truth Decay, The RAND Corporation's insightful take on media literacy Can you spot fake news before hitting “share”? Kids are learning and so can you by Fast CompanyThe News Literacy Project -- Start here for some amazing resourcesCheckology, NewLitPro's flagship platformNewsLit Nation, a fantastic group to joinMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan talks with educator, author, and speaker Pernille Ripp (@pernilleripp) about the importance of developing young readers. For over a decade Pernille has run the Global Read Aloud, a six-week program that unites classrooms around a single text. Dan and Pernille discuss what it means to be a reader, helping our reluctant readers find books that speak to them, and why teachers need to listen to students about their reading needs. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:The Global Read Aloud, created and run by Pernille RippPernille Ripp on the webBooks:The One and Only Ivan by Katherine ApplegateAmal Unbound by Aisha SaeedThe Bridge Home by Padma VenkatramanWhen We Were Infinite by Kelly Loy GilbertShow Me a Sign by Ann Clare LeZotte Black Boy Joy, edited by Kwame MbaliaThis Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron Healer of the Water Monster by Brian Young In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner Music:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan is joined by Colorado educator Julia Fliss to discuss the importance of cultivating globally-minded students in our increasingly interconnected world. Dan and Julia start by examining the power of learning additional languages as a portal into deeper cultural understanding. Then they discuss the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, local activism, and Julia's work with Girl Rising. As always I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:The UN's Sustainable Development GoalsTeach the SDGsInspire Citizens Girl RisingJulia Fliss on TwitterMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan hosts the always-candid Monise Seward (@MoniseLSeward), a special education teacher and interventionist. Living in Georgia, Monise had a front row seat to one of the most tumultuous years in American history and she comes on the pod to talk about teaching and learning during the pandemic, election denialism, historical ignorance, and what she's optimistic about. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan talks with educator, author, and big thinker Casey Jakubowski. They discuss rural education, the state of the teaching profession, the current debate over history class, and progressivism. As always I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd Mentioned in the show:Thinking About Teaching: A Rural Social Studies Teacher's Path to Strive for Excellence by Casey JakubowskiReport: Why Rural Matters, 2018-19: The Time is Now from The Rural School and Community TrustDividing Paradise: Rural Inequality and the Diminishing American Dream by Jennifer ShermanSenate Passes $1 Trillion Infrastructure Bill, Handing Biden a Bipartisan Win from the New York TimesEducation in Rural California from EdSourceMusic:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan talks with Chris McNutt, an Ohio educator, the executive director of the Human Restoration Project, and a leading voice for a progressive, human-centered education. They talk about the manufactured myth of "learning loss", media literacy, and the incredible work of HRP. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:From the Human Restoration Project Oh What a Tangled Web We Weave: How the Testing Industry Manufactured the "Learning Loss" Narrative by Chris McNuttPrimer on Progressive EducationUngrading HandbookEvidence Journal (great alternative to traditional grading!)Microcredentialing and CourseworkHRP Podcast #95: Deciphering "Learning Loss" w/ Akil BelloMcKinsey's report on learning loss: "COVID-19 and student learning in the United States: The hurt could last a lifetime"Music:Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]Music provided by Audio Library PlusWatch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9PkFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower

In which Dan wraps up the school year and this season of What's the Big Idea? by sitting down with six thoughtful and reflective students to discuss the year and the future. They share lessons on the past fifteen months, go deep on the pluses and minuses of social media, talk about whether or not they feel heard as young people, and describe what makes a good life. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMusic: "Que Estraño Es" by Molo

In which Dan calls on Jessica Kirkland (@jkirk___), a high school English teacher from Virginia, to reflect on this unprecedented year. After describing what this year was like for her students, Jessica talks remote learning, learning "loss", diversity and inclusion, and how we should approach the next school year with student humanity in mind. As always, we welcome feedback on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Too Much Focus on ‘Learning Loss’ Will Be a Historic Mistake from EdutopiaTexas Pushes to Obscure the State’s History of Slavery and Racism from the New York TimesDistance learning changed California education. What’s here to stay? from EdSourceMusic: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo

In which Dan talks about the urgent need to protect LGBTQ students and empower teachers to become active allies. He's joined by Jean-Marie Navetta, Director of Learning and Inclusion at PFLAG. After discussing the troubling stream of anti-LGBTQ legislation from across the country, Dan and Jean-Marie examine ways in which schools can become more safe and inclusive for LGBTQ students. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd Mentioned in the show and additional resources:2021 Slated to Become Worst Year for LGBTQ State Legislative Attacks from HRCThe GLSEN 2019 National School Climate SurveyCultivating Respect: Safe Schools For All from PFLAGSupporting LGBTQ Youth of Color from GLSENBest Practices for Serving LGBTQ Students from Learning for JusticePFLAG's Guide to Becoming a Straight AllyGuide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth from the Trevor Project

In which Dan discusses what makes meaningful assessment with Tyler Rablin (@Mr_Rablin), an English teacher and instructional coach in Washington state. They talk student voice in the assessment process, why quality feedback matters and why sometimes students just won't take the feedback, and how ideas like growth mindset and grit can be used to get teachers off the hook for our bad practices. As always hit us up with questions and comments on Twitter @BigIdeaEd Mentioned in the show:Tyler Rablin's professional websiteTyler's grade book template -- organized by skill, not assignmentTyler's student conferences templateSeven reasons for standard-based grading from EdutopiaThe debate over growth mindset from the Scientific AmericanMusic: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo

In which Dan kicks off a mini-series on assessment by talking with Jay McTighe (@jaymctighe), co-creator of Understanding by Design and someone who's done lots of thinking about what constitutes authentic and meaningful assessment. They talk about performance tasks, project-based learning, feedback, rubrics, and why teaching should be more like coaching. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd Mentioned on the show:Understanding by Design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTigheWhat is a Performance Task? by Jay McTighe?Designing Authentic Performance Tasks and Projects by Jay McTigheDeep Virtual Learning by Jay McTighe, Harvey Silver, and Matthew Perini Three Key Questions on Measuring Learning by Jay McTighe Performance Task PD with Jay McTigheAssessing What Matters Most: Developing Authentic Performance Tasks (video)Using Webb's Depth of Knowledge from EdutopiaMusic: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo

In which Dan talks financial literacy with Yanely Espinal (@missbehelpful) from Next Gen Personal Finance. Yanely makes the case that not only is financial literacy essential in schools, it also needs to be responsive to the economic realities that students and families are facing right now. Dan and Yanely talk about the difference between mandated and embedded curriculum, the power of gamification, and when Teach For America is truly effective. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned on the show:Next Gen Personal Finance"More states are forcing students to study personal finance. It’s a waste of time." Timothy Ogden, Washington Post, April 23, 2019"Let’s stop the argument that financial education doesn’t work" Bill Hensley, CNBC June 13, 2019"Do Financial Literacy Courses Work?" Susannah Snider, US News and World Report, August 28, 2018Music: "Que Extraño Es" by Molo

In which Dan discusses the why, the what, and the how of media and digital literacy with Kerri Redding (@nandikerri), photographer and media educator at Washington International School. They dissect the four principles of media literacy, wonder why schools are so far behind on this, and discuss life on the early internet. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Media Literacy Standards to Counter Truth Decay by RAND CorporationThe SIFT Method for evaluating digital sources by Mike CaulfieldCheck, Please: a fact and source-check course from Mike CaulfieldNational Society for Media Literacy EducationMedia Education LabMaking Thinking Visible from Harvard's Project ZeroThe Binti Graphic Novel Series by Nnedi OkoraforThey Called Us Enemy by George TakeiMusic: "Que Extraño Es" by Molo

In which Dan talks conceptual learning, and reframing so much of what we do in education with Kayla Duncan (@MrsKaylaDuncan) and Trevor Aleo (@MrAleoSays). They're part of a team that authored an upcoming book that's not afraid to take on big, important issues in education. We talk transfer, going slow to go fast, teacher credibility, and what it's like to write an education book. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Learning That Transfers: Designing Curriculum for a Changing World by Julie Stern, Krista Ferraro, Kayla Duncan, and Trevor AleoLearning That Transfers Online CoursesUnderstanding By Design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTigheMusic: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise

In which Dan talks about education in the context of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. He's joined by Joel Westheimer (@joelwestheimer), professor of education at the University of Ottawa and someone's who done lots of thinking and writing about civics education. They talk about the Canadian view of the attack, the meaning of civics education, and how a lack of media literacy might be education's biggest blindspot. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:What Kind of Citizen? Educating Our Children For the Common Good by Joel WestheimerPledging Allegiance: The Politics of Patriotism in American's Schools by Joel Westheimer Origins of Totalitarianism by Hannah Arendt Media Literacy on Common Sense MediaMusic: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise

In which Dan weighs what 2020 taught us about many of the tenets of education. He's joined by Amy Fast (@fastcrayon), principal of McMinnville High School in Oregon, to take part in "Over, Under, or Properly Rated?", a game of evaluation and reflection. They talk synchronous vs asynchronous, teacher content knowledge, parental involvement, college prep, and more. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd.Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise

In which Dan talks with Jinnie Spiegler, director of Curriculum and Training at the Anti-Defamation League. If 2020 has shown us anything, it's the importance of being able to talk about race in the classroom. But too often teachers don't. We're limited by feelings of discomfort or defensiveness, the pressures of curriculum pacing, or maybe we just don't see it as our job. This is a mistake and a missed opportunity. Luckily, we're supported by organizations like the Anti-Defamation League. Dan and Jinnie discuss teacher discomfort, how leadership can support us, and why student action is so crucial.Visit the ADL for incredible resources for creating the right classroom environment for those difficult conversations.Mentioned in the show:Anti-Defamation League: Resources for Educators, Parents & FamiliesAnti-Defamation League: How Should I Talk about Race in My Mostly White Classroom?Education Week: Are America's Schools Ready for Tough Talk on Racism?Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise

In which Dan speaks with Kim Marshall, a retired teacher and principal, on his career and reflections on education and leadership. Kim is now a consultant and publisher of the excellent Marshall Memo, a weekly roundup of ideas and research in K-12 education. Dan and Kim talk about busing in Boston in the 1970s, how you know when you're ready to move into administration, and what he's learned from spending every Sunday for years reading education articles. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:"The Desegregation of a Boston Classroom" by Kim Marshall, Learning, September 1975"Class Warfare in the Boston Schools" by Kim Marshall, Harvard, February 1975"Pushing Back on Outmoded Beliefs" by Kim Marshall in Leaderboard, Michigan Association of School Boards, Spring 2019The Best of the Marshall Memo (for purchase) and a free chapterMusic: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise

In which Dan examines the importance of talking with students about important issues facing America, including the upcoming election, race, inequality, and hard historical truths. Dan is first joined by Karen Murphy from Facing History and Ourselves to talk about the work of that organization in helping teachers navigate hard history and sensitive current events (4:45). Then he's joined by Rhode Island history teacher Jon Gold to talk morality, perspectives, and why being "neutral" in the classroom just won't cut it (37:00). As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEdMentioned in the show:Facing History and Ourselves: Fostering Civil Discourse and Current Events Teacher Check ListJon Gold's excellent articles for Teaching ToleranceMusic: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise

In which Dan chats with Nate Bowling, history and government teacher and big thinker. Nate spent over a decade in public schools in Washington state, where, in 2016, he was named the Teacher of Year, and was one of four finalists for national teacher of the year. He now works at an international school in Abu Dhabi. They talk politics, policy, the value of liberal arts, America’s place in the world, and how living outside the U.S. deepens your perspective. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd