Podcasts about classrooms

Montgomery County Public Schools, which had banned AI in classrooms in 2023, now has a draft new AI policy document out for public comment. Sunil Dasgupta talks with MCPS parent, Ed tech expert, and Stoneridge School of the Scared Heart teacher Jaime Chao Mignano to break down the document and the big AI questions that are predicted to upend education itself. Newly in public domain music by George Gershwin, Paul Whiteman band, and Marian Andersen.

Justin Reich is an Associate Professor of Digital Media at MIT in the Comparative Media Studies/Writing program and the director of the Teaching Systems Lab. He is a longtime educator and host of the TeachLab podcast. His research focuses on how learning technologies shape teaching and learning in real classrooms and what actually happens when schools adopt new tools. He brings a thoughtful, historically grounded perspective to how generative AI is transforming education.Jesse Dukes is a journalist, comedian, and audio storyteller with a long career producing narrative audio. He works with MIT's Teaching Systems Lab on The Homework Machine project, bringing teachers' and students' voices into the public conversation about AI in schools. Previously at WBEZ Chicago, he has produced award‑winning radio and documentary work and has a special talent for capturing humanity and humor in complex educational stories.Generative AI is entering classrooms quickly—but not evenly, and not without complications. In this conversation, Justin Reich and Jesse Dukes share what they've learned while creating The Homework Machine, a seven‑part narrative podcast about how students and teachers are navigating AI in real time.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/the-homework-machine-what-ai-is-really-doing-in-classrooms-1319/

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, KJ sits down with Colin Cooper, CEO and co-founder of Illuminate XR, to explore the massive skills gap threatening our workforce. With over 100 companies under his belt and thousands of global hires, Colin has witnessed firsthand how our 200-year-old education system is failing to prepare people for today's AI-driven world. Discover how immersive technology, emotional intelligence training, and personalized learning are revolutionizing the way humans learn, and why the next few years will determine whether we step into the "age of humanity" or fall behind forever. Four Key Takeaways The Education System Is 200 Years Behind (4:42) Our schools still operate on an industrial-age factory model designed to create compliant workers, not creative thinkers. Classrooms haven't fundamentally changed in over 1,000 years, and curriculum remains rooted in preparing students for a world that no longer exists. Meet Learners Where They Are (7:40)Real learning happens when you reduce cortisol and increase dopamine by connecting education to personal interests. Whether it's tailoring physics lessons to football or basketball, or using horses to teach emotional intelligence, personalization is the key to engagement and retention. AI Should Amplify, Not Replace (20:05) The future isn't about AI replacing teachers or workers—it's about using AI as a personal assistant to handle repetitive tasks. Start by identifying one repetitive task in your job and automate it with AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity. We're Living Through 25 Years of Progress Every Year (29:20)The convergence of AI and VR—technologies that shouldn't have merged for another 15-20 years—has compressed innovation timelines. What used to take 10-15 years to bring to market now takes weeks. The next 3-4 years will be transformative, and we have one shot to get it right. Quote of the Show (29:40):"When a year goes by, you normally get one year's worth of progress, but where we're at today, a year goes by and it's like 20 to 25 years of technology growth." – Colin Cooper Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Colin Cooper:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinmbcooper/Company Website: https://illuminatexr.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruptionApple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Janet’s daughter, Sarah, will join her to give an update on some of the legal challenges that are in place to try and secure parents' rights in the classroom. Learn about some recent decisions that have a direct impact on you and your family. Get ready to think critically and biblically.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last December, Martin University announced it would close, citing years of financial strain and declining enrollment. The closure brings to an end a legacy that began more than 50 years ago with Boniface Hardin. Hardin arrived in Indianapolis in 1965 after being assigned as associate pastor at Holy Angels Catholic Church. He entered a city marked by racial inequality, police violence, and urban displacement. It was in this context that Hardin emerged as a prominent civil rights advocate. In 1970, Hardin and Sister Jane Schilling founded the Martin Center in a house at 35th and College Avenue. That led to the founding of Martin Center College in 1977, created to serve adult learners, low-income and minority students, people with disabilities, and others historically excluded from higher education. In 1987, the school moved to a larger facility in the Brightwood neighborhood, and in 1990 the institution was renamed Martin University.  Martin reached a high point in 2001 with the opening of a new $10 million campus facility. Hardin retired as president of Martin University in 2007 after more than three decades of leadership. He died in 2012 at the age of 78.

Missouri State Representative Tricia Byrnes joins Marc to sound the alarm on falling literacy and math scores she links to excessive screen time and early tech reliance in schools. Byrnes details her bipartisan bill to restore books, handwriting, and teacher-led learning for K–5 students, while limiting “snow day” remote learning that offers little educational value. She explains how decades of tech policy and federal mandates have sidelined traditional education methods — and how Missouri must act fast to reverse the damage. Byrnes also discusses her run for St. Charles County Collector and her push for more responsible leadership at the local level. Hashtags: #TriciaByrnes #EducationReform #MissouriSchools #ScreenTimeCrisis #BackToBasics #K12Policy #DigitalDelusion

A bill that would have required Indiana schools to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms is gaining traction, but not before being changed drastically. A bill that would have required Indiana schools to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms is gaining traction, but not before being changed drastically. A State House bill would eliminate the Indiana Natural Resources Commission and a few other state boards. More trails across Indiana are getting funding through an Indiana nonprofit group. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

This week on Sunday Night Teacher Talk, CJ reflects on KnowledgeCon in Los Angeles and the power of surrounding yourself with people who sharpen your vision and re-ignite your passion. He shares updates from the classroom, including why he transformed his room into a jungle, how he resets after winter break, and how to make even midterm testing feel supportive, joyful, and human.Also in this episode: writing activities that work during tech transitions, how unstructured play is deeply underrated, why he changes up even successful lessons when they start to feel stale, and how a SPED teacher can manage 192+ students with rhythm and strategy.✉️ FREE Weekly Teaching TipsStay updated & get exclusive strategies in my newsletter

The snow emergency has captured attention; hundreds of millions of raw sewage has spilled into the Potomac River from a pipe break under the American Legion Bridge, which joins Maryland and Virginia. DC Water, which runs the pipe, is working on it, but no local jurisdiction has issued a health advisory. Maryland Governor Wes Moore presented the last budget of his first term. We have takeaways. Montgomery County Board of Education has been considering a written policy on the use of AI in classrooms. We break it down. And more. Newly in public domain music by George Gershwin, Paul Whiteman band, and Marian Andersen.  

AI meditations are everywhere right now—apps, chatbots, VR headsets promising calm in 10 minutes or less—but are AI meditations actually helping guys handle real stress, or just giving you one more screen to hide behind? In this episode, we get real about AI meditations, digital mindfulness, and whether any algorithm can truly replace a human teacher who sees you, feels the room, and knows when you're about to lose it. We sit down with guest expert Steve Haberlin, PhD, to explore the intersection of technology, meditation, and human awareness. Steve has spent years studying both traditional mindfulness practices and emerging tech—AI, virtual reality, and digital training tools—and asking hard questions about where mindfulness is headed.Together, they unpack what technology can genuinely support in mindfulness practice—and what it can't. They discuss the difference between guided experiences and embodied learning, why attention and nervous system regulation still require human relationship, and how men can engage technology without outsourcing responsibility for awareness.This episode isn't anti-tech. It's pro-discernment.In this conversation, you'll hear:• The rise of AI-guided meditation and VR mindfulness tools• What technology can accelerate—and what it cannot replace• Why embodiment and nervous system regulation matter more than insights• The risk of mistaking consumption for practice• How real teachers differ from algorithms• Where mindfulness is likely headed in the next decade• How men can use tech without avoiding responsibility or presenceIf you're curious about meditation apps, AI tools, or the future of mindfulness—but want grounded perspective instead of hype—this episode offers clarity.You'll walk away with:✅ A realistic understanding of AI's role in mindfulness✅ Language to evaluate meditation tools critically✅ A clearer sense of what real practice requires✅ Perspective on presence in an increasingly digital worldSponsor:Peptides for Health by Mark L. Gordon, M.D. is a two-volume series exploring the science and clinical application of therapeutic peptides.Medical Edition Vol. 1 Release: December 22, 2025Consumer Edition Vol. 1 Release: January 20, 2026Discount Code: PFH25Medical Edition Offer Window: Dec 20, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026Consumer Edition Offer Window: Jan 20 – Feb 20, 2026Proceeds support the Children of Veterans Program.Preview both editions: https://tbihelpnow.org/biohack-yourselfLinks & ResourcesJoin the Men Talking Mindfulness team at the 2026 Spartan Race and take mindfulness into real-world challenge. This is about grit, presence, and brotherhood under pressure. Learn more and join the team here: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/spartan-race-2026More episodes & resources: https://mentalkingmindfulness.comMental fitness & coaching with Will: https://willnotfear.comBook Jon to speak with your team: https://jonmacaskill.comIf this episode resonates, follow the show, leave a rating and review, and share it with one man who's trying to hold it all together.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

For 60 years, courts used a fake standard of “neutrality” to purge God from public life. That era is ending. Louisiana and Texas are fighting to restore them to classrooms as courts reconsider decades of bad precedent.

International cooperation, digital skills and real-life learning define the European eTwinning platform, which has been part of Slovak schools for more than 20 years. To we explore how Europe's largest online community of schools connects teachers and students across borders through projects that develop key competences for life in the 21st century we speak with Katarína Hrbáňová, coordinator of eTwinning Slovakia, the National Support Organisation based at the University of Žilina, and Ivana Bršťáková, an English teacher at Business Academy Dudova in Bratislava, who presents her award-winning project Eco-Heritage: Cultures United for Nature. The project won third place in the Slovak National eTwinning Competition 2025 in the secondary school category and brought together students from Slovakia, Spain and Turkey to explore cultural heritage, environmental protection and eco-tourism. As always, the programme includes a new edition of our language corner, Slovak Sound Check.

Live from the energy of Day 2 at Bett UK, we sit down with Andrew Slawinski, Lead of Product Development for LEGO Education, to discuss how they are empowering teachers to become "superheroes" every week. The conversation centers on the launch of LEGO Education Computer Science and AI, where Andrew passionately advocates for moving past the "hype" of chatbots. Instead, LEGO is focused on teaching the fundamentals of AI such as probability, bias, and machine representation demystifying the technology so students see it not as "magic," but as a tool they can take apart, understand, and build with. We also dive into the critical ethics of EdTech, covering LEGO's strict "red lines" on privacy ensuring no data ever leaves the classroom and their refusal to anthropomorphize AI. Andrew explains the rigorous "Substitute Teacher Test" used to ensure educator confidence and shares insights from their new student-voice report, proving that children are eager to look under the hood of the technology shaping their world. Ready to experience the innovation firsthand? Make sure to check out what is happening at Bett UK at https://uk.bettshow.com/. This episode is proudly sponsored by Edmentum – visit them at https://www.edmentum.com/.

From notebooks to laptops and tablets, to AI being the new tutor for students (whether it's approved or not), have we lost control of technology use in classrooms? Rep. Ariel Defay joins the show to explain the legislation she's proposed to regulate how much technology is used in classrooms.

Topics we will cover on this episode of KSL's Inside Sources include: Too Much Tech? Exploring Where To Draw The Line With AI and Technology in Classrooms Can Physical Activity Lower Breast Cancer Risk? What New Research Shows The Top Issue Utahns Want Lawmakers To Address: Housing Affordability Police Reveal Threats Made Before Michigan Meetinghouse Attack

What if the most exciting tech of the year wasn't just shiny—it was useful, personal, and a little unsettling? We dive into our Top 10 from CES 2026 and share what genuinely moved the needle for everyday life, what felt like future shock, and where we think the line should be drawn.We start with wonder and method: viral claims about “hidden cities” beneath Antarctica meet the real tools behind the map—satellite interferometry, glacier-flow physics, and AI reconstruction. That lens helps us parse a major education study on generative AI: students are learning faster, but thinking less. We lay out the gains for reading and language, the risk of cognitive offloading, emotional bonds with chatbots, and a roadmap for classrooms that teach with AI without surrendering curiosity or equity.Then the floor opens. We count down gadgets that aim beyond spectacle: a bone-conduction lollipop that plays licensed music you can taste; an AI-powered nail system that swaps colors in seconds without chemicals; an ultrasonic chef knife that cuts clean without crushing; and a luxury smart toilet that pairs comfort with urine analysis and safety monitoring. We talk real-world scenarios—aging in place, chronic care, and the thin edge between helpful data and surveillance.The hits keep coming: a portable allergen scanner designed to flag gluten and lactose at the table, Samsung's pocketable trifold that unfolds into a true 10-inch workspace, and a stair-climbing robot vacuum that actually cleans steps and multi-floor homes on a single cycle. Our health pick of the show is a discreet perimenopause wearable that turns hot flashes, sleep disruptions, and anxiety into actionable biometrics, finally giving millions data they can use.And then there's the most talked-about demo: a hologram-like “AI soulmate” living in a curved OLED, always on, always attentive, and engineered for attachment. We unpack the appeal, the ethical minefield, and the social cost of simulating intimacy at scale. To ground it all, we spotlight a nationwide Verizon outage—phones stuck in SOS mode and a small opt-in credit—because when your life runs on networks, resilience matters more than hype.Pull up a chair, pour something good, and join us for a tour that favors clarity over buzz. If our mix of curiosity, skepticism, and humor hits the spot, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find it. Which CES idea would you actually bring home—and which one should never cross your doorstep?Support the show

Greg and Holly go in-depth on ways lawmakers are working to address the issue of tech in classrooms and its impact on students. Senator Lincoln Fillmore and Rep. Doug Welton join the show to discuss proposals for a bell-to-bell phone ban, reducing screen time and additional technology use in classrooms, and ways they hope to address chronic absenteeism in Utah.

Connection For Us All - In this episode Paul runs down the events he already has planned for 2026 and reads and answers a couple emailsIntro Music by: Luke Dimond

Today - Wenatchee schools brace for major cuts as the district prepares to shrink its budget by more than $5 million next year.Support the show: https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today our guest is Kait Ahlbrandt, school psychologist and Director of Customer Success at EmpowerU. We talk about why educator wellbeing is essential to student success and how adult regulation shapes classroom climate. Kate shares why intentional listening and making space for connection matter, especially when educators feel overwhelmed. She highlights the need for practical, realistic supports that help educators show up present, regulated, and ready to teach. Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

Ideally, college classrooms provide students with a comfortable but challenging environment in which diverse ideas and viewpoints are openly exchanged; the reality they experience, though, is often quite different. In this episode, David Laibson joins us to discuss how Harvard University is attempting to identify and address barriers to this ideal. David is the Robert I. Goldman Professor of Economics and a Faculty Dean of Lowell House. He has published dozens of heavily cited articles on a wide range of topics, including behavioral economics, self-regulation, behavior change, household finance, and aging. David is a Research Associate in the Aging, Asset Pricing, and Economic Fluctuations Working Group at the National Bureau of Economic Research, member of the National Bureau of Economic Research, and serves on numerous advisory boards. He has received Harvard's Phi Beta Kappa award and a Harvard College Professorship in recognition of his high quality teaching. David is also a co-author of popular textbooks on introductory economics and  a co-editor of the Handbook of Behavioral Economics. A transcript of this episode and show notes may be found at http://teaforteaching.com.

Happy New Year from all of us at Fostering Change! We hope you had a joyful holiday season filled with rest, connection, and moments that centered what matters most. As we step into 2026 together, we're excited to continue bringing you meaningful conversations that uplift, educate, and inspire. Season 7 is already shaping up to be one of our most impactful yet — and we're thrilled to kick off the year with today's guest.

Watch the full podcast: https://youtu.be/90ZOQWWIm9M  

In this talk I present the case that artificial light and wireless RF radiation are pervasive indoor pollutants that are disrupting your circadian rhythm and damaging the health of your children. Watch on Youtube to see the slides. CONSULT DR MAXInitial consult - https://www.drmaxgulhane.com/offers/5jfDvLyH/checkoutSUPPORT MY WORK

Learn More About CharacterStrong:  Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website

How Mega Minds Brings Real-World CTE to Classrooms ft. Eric Tao & Austin Levinson | My EdTech Life 349In Episode 349 of My EdTech Life, Dr. Alfonso “Fonz” Mendoza sits down with Eric Tao, Founder & CEO of Mega Minds, and Austin Levinson, veteran educator and learning designer, to unpack how immersive AI-powered simulations are reshaping Career and Technical Education (CTE).This conversation goes beyond AI hype. Eric and Austin explain why most AI tools in education focus on productivity instead of learning and how immersive environments can restore student engagement, agency, and real-world skill development.We explore how Mega Minds uses AI characters, simulations, and 3D environments to help students practice CTE skills safely before entering real workplaces. From healthcare triage simulations to job interviews, retail scenarios, and construction environments, students are learning through experience, not worksheets.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions02:30 Exploring MegaMinds: An Overview04:49 The Role of Engagement in Education07:03 The Future of EdTech and AI in Learning10:39 Data-Driven Insights for Teachers13:45 The Importance of Student Agency18:10 Creating Safe Spaces for Learning20:38 Real-World Applications of MegaMinds27:46 CTE Lessons and Immersive Experiences33:05 Experiential Learning in Healthcare Education38:32 The Role of AI in Education42:39 Understanding AI Bias Through Immersive Learning48:38 AI Literacy and Its Importance in Education53:43 Final Thoughts and Future DirectionsMega Minds Resources Mentioned in EpisodeMegaMinds WebsiteFree AI Literacy Pilot InfoSponsors ShoutoutThank you to our sponsors: Book Creator, Eduaide.AI, and Peel Back Education for supporting My EdTech Life.Peel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show

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Hour 1 of Rush to Reason ignites with John Rush joined by physician Dr. Kelly Victory and healthcare industry expert Steve House for a bold, no-holds-barred deep dive into America's health crisis. What's really driving soaring healthcare costs — accidents, or lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension? Why do “quick-fix” drugs promise miracles while risking serious side effects? Dr. Kelly and Steve challenge listeners to rethink weight loss, chronic disease, and personal responsibility, exposing how incentives in medicine and the pharmaceutical industry may be steering care in the wrong direction. They tackle blood work, drug pricing, middlemen, and the ethics of modern treatment — asking whether the system rewards sickness more than health. Is Obamacare beyond repair? Are rural hospitals on the brink? And could medical freedom begin with simple daily choices instead of another pill or injection? This hour pulls no punches, blending hard truths with practical insight as Dr. Kelly Victory and Steve House urge listeners to reclaim control of their health in 2026. Are you ready to hear what the healthcare system won't tell you? No Middleman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQhsPLcFwN8&t=70s HR2 Hour 2 of Rush to Reason opens with John Rush joined by Norton Rainey, CEO of ACE Scholarships (https://www.acescholarships.org/), for a powerful conversation on school choice and education reform. Could a new federal tax credit change everything for Colorado families? Why is Governor Jared Polis breaking ranks with his party to support competition in education — and what could that mean for public, charter, and private schools? Rainey lays out how parental choice could reshape classrooms and create a better future for kids. Then the hour shifts gears as John tackles real-world preparedness, sharing his own experience living through a prolonged power outage. Are utility shutdowns about safety — or driven by lawsuits and liability? What happens when the grid goes dark, and are you ready to handle 72 hours without power? From generators and food storage to EVs as backup power sources, John and callers dig into resilience, self-reliance, and the choices families must make in uncertain times. Education, energy, preparedness, and freedom — can one hour spark a wake-up call you didn't expect? HR3 Hour 3 of Rush to Reason delivers a powerful mix of hard truth and heartfelt inspiration as John Rush is joined by Jerzee Joe and special guest Jerry Schimel of Best Day Ministries. The hour opens with Joe dissecting a tragic plane crash and the split-second decisions that can mean life or death. From there, the conversation tackles big ideas — dependence on the state, “chemtrail” legislation, retail theft mandates, and whether electric buses make sense in cold climates. Are ideology and virtue signaling replacing common sense? Health and culture collide as Joe raises the impact of sleep on longevity, while John weighs in on President Trump's latest speech and the role of the Fed — and calls out clickbait influencers driving outrage for profit. Then the tone shifts as Jerry Schimel shares his journey into Best Day Ministries (https://bestdayministries.org/), a nonprofit that gives adults with disabilities meaningful work, dignity, and community. What happens when inclusion replaces isolation? Can purpose change lives? From aviation to politics to compassion, this hour challenges how we think — and how we live.

Among the most common challenges on college campuses today is figuring out how to navigate our politically charged culture and engage productively with opposing viewpoints. In Try to Love the Questions: From Debate to Dialogue in Classrooms and Life (Princeton UP, 2024), Lara Schwartz introduces the fundamental principles of free expression, academic freedom, and academic dialogue, showing how open expression is the engine of social progress, scholarship, and inclusion. She sheds light on the rules and norms that govern campus discourse—such as the First Amendment, campus expression policies, and academic standards—and encourages students to adopt a mindset of inquiry that embraces uncertainty and a love of questions. Empowering students, scholars, and instructors to listen generously, explore questions with integrity, and communicate to be understood, Try to Love the Questions includes writing exercises and discussion questions in every chapter, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in practicing good-faith dialogue. Content note: The “test” Dr. Gessler references is a quiz on contraception, and the prevention and transmission of several different diseases; the prizes offered were candy bars. Our guest is: Professor Lara Schwartz, who focuses on dialogue across difference, freedom of speech and dissent, inclusive pedagogy, dispute resolution, and depolarization. Drawing on her experience as a legislative lawyer, lobbyist, and communications strategist in leading civil rights organizations, Professor Schwartz understands how to lay the groundwork for important, tough conversations across difference. She is the author of Try to Love the Questions. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is a full-time writing coach, grad student coach, and developmental editor. She is the producer and show host of the Academic Life podcast. Playlist for listeners: The Good-Enough Life The Entrepreneurial Scholar What Do You Want Out of Life My What-if Year Gay on God's Campus Black and Queer On Campus Moments of Impact You Have More Influence Than You Think The Last Human Job The Ai Mirror Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading, teaching with, and recommending episodes. Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them all here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Among the most common challenges on college campuses today is figuring out how to navigate our politically charged culture and engage productively with opposing viewpoints. In Try to Love the Questions: From Debate to Dialogue in Classrooms and Life (Princeton UP, 2024), Lara Schwartz introduces the fundamental principles of free expression, academic freedom, and academic dialogue, showing how open expression is the engine of social progress, scholarship, and inclusion. She sheds light on the rules and norms that govern campus discourse—such as the First Amendment, campus expression policies, and academic standards—and encourages students to adopt a mindset of inquiry that embraces uncertainty and a love of questions. Empowering students, scholars, and instructors to listen generously, explore questions with integrity, and communicate to be understood, Try to Love the Questions includes writing exercises and discussion questions in every chapter, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in practicing good-faith dialogue. Content note: The “test” Dr. Gessler references is a quiz on contraception, and the prevention and transmission of several different diseases; the prizes offered were candy bars. Our guest is: Professor Lara Schwartz, who focuses on dialogue across difference, freedom of speech and dissent, inclusive pedagogy, dispute resolution, and depolarization. Drawing on her experience as a legislative lawyer, lobbyist, and communications strategist in leading civil rights organizations, Professor Schwartz understands how to lay the groundwork for important, tough conversations across difference. She is the author of Try to Love the Questions. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is a full-time writing coach, grad student coach, and developmental editor. She is the producer and show host of the Academic Life podcast. Playlist for listeners: The Good-Enough Life The Entrepreneurial Scholar What Do You Want Out of Life My What-if Year Gay on God's Campus Black and Queer On Campus Moments of Impact You Have More Influence Than You Think The Last Human Job The Ai Mirror Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading, teaching with, and recommending episodes. Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them all here. And thank you for listening!

Among the most common challenges on college campuses today is figuring out how to navigate our politically charged culture and engage productively with opposing viewpoints. In Try to Love the Questions: From Debate to Dialogue in Classrooms and Life (Princeton UP, 2024), Lara Schwartz introduces the fundamental principles of free expression, academic freedom, and academic dialogue, showing how open expression is the engine of social progress, scholarship, and inclusion. She sheds light on the rules and norms that govern campus discourse—such as the First Amendment, campus expression policies, and academic standards—and encourages students to adopt a mindset of inquiry that embraces uncertainty and a love of questions. Empowering students, scholars, and instructors to listen generously, explore questions with integrity, and communicate to be understood, Try to Love the Questions includes writing exercises and discussion questions in every chapter, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in practicing good-faith dialogue. Content note: The “test” Dr. Gessler references is a quiz on contraception, and the prevention and transmission of several different diseases; the prizes offered were candy bars. Our guest is: Professor Lara Schwartz, who focuses on dialogue across difference, freedom of speech and dissent, inclusive pedagogy, dispute resolution, and depolarization. Drawing on her experience as a legislative lawyer, lobbyist, and communications strategist in leading civil rights organizations, Professor Schwartz understands how to lay the groundwork for important, tough conversations across difference. She is the author of Try to Love the Questions. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is a full-time writing coach, grad student coach, and developmental editor. She is the producer and show host of the Academic Life podcast. Playlist for listeners: The Good-Enough Life The Entrepreneurial Scholar What Do You Want Out of Life My What-if Year Gay on God's Campus Black and Queer On Campus Moments of Impact You Have More Influence Than You Think The Last Human Job The Ai Mirror Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading, teaching with, and recommending episodes. Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them all here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/academic-life

In this show, host Famida Choudhary is joined by educational leader Surji Aboubakker to explore The Power of Wonder in literacy classrooms. Together, they discuss how to embed joy, curiosity, and connection in reading and writing, moving beyond worksheets to create meaningful, story-rich experiences. Tune in for insights on leadership, phonics, and reimagining literacy for lifelong impact.

Among the most common challenges on college campuses today is figuring out how to navigate our politically charged culture and engage productively with opposing viewpoints. In Try to Love the Questions: From Debate to Dialogue in Classrooms and Life (Princeton UP, 2024), Lara Schwartz introduces the fundamental principles of free expression, academic freedom, and academic dialogue, showing how open expression is the engine of social progress, scholarship, and inclusion. She sheds light on the rules and norms that govern campus discourse—such as the First Amendment, campus expression policies, and academic standards—and encourages students to adopt a mindset of inquiry that embraces uncertainty and a love of questions. Empowering students, scholars, and instructors to listen generously, explore questions with integrity, and communicate to be understood, Try to Love the Questions includes writing exercises and discussion questions in every chapter, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in practicing good-faith dialogue. Content note: The “test” Dr. Gessler references is a quiz on contraception, and the prevention and transmission of several different diseases; the prizes offered were candy bars. Our guest is: Professor Lara Schwartz, who focuses on dialogue across difference, freedom of speech and dissent, inclusive pedagogy, dispute resolution, and depolarization. Drawing on her experience as a legislative lawyer, lobbyist, and communications strategist in leading civil rights organizations, Professor Schwartz understands how to lay the groundwork for important, tough conversations across difference. She is the author of Try to Love the Questions. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, who is a full-time writing coach, grad student coach, and developmental editor. She is the producer and show host of the Academic Life podcast. Playlist for listeners: The Good-Enough Life The Entrepreneurial Scholar What Do You Want Out of Life My What-if Year Gay on God's Campus Black and Queer On Campus Moments of Impact You Have More Influence Than You Think The Last Human Job The Ai Mirror Welcome to Academic Life, the podcast for your academic journey—and beyond! You help support the show by downloading, teaching with, and recommending episodes. Join us again to learn from more experts inside and outside the academy, and around the world. Missed any of the 300+ Academic Life episodes? Find them all here. And thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/education

In classrooms across the nation, students and teachers are using AI—but should they be? AI's advocates argue that it can be used to individualize instruction and provide personalized feedback, but its critics contend that the adoption of AI in the classroom will get in the way of students acquiring critical thinking skills. Who is right […]

In classrooms across the nation, students and teachers are using AI—but should they be?AI's advocates argue that it can be used to individualize instruction and provide personalized feedback, but its critics contend that the adoption of AI in the classroom will get in the way of students acquiring critical thinking skills.Who is right here? Can AI reverse a decade of falling test scores, or will it only exacerbate this trend? And even if AI in the classroom is the future, does that mean schools should adopt AI in the classroom today?On this episode of The Report Card, Nat Malkus and four experts discuss and debate whether maximizing school improvement by 2035 means integrating AI into classrooms today.Note: This episode is adapted from the most recent installment of the American Enterprise Institute's Education Policy Debate Series, which was held at AEI on December 8. A video recording of the debate can be found here.Shanika Hope is the director of Americas & Knowledge, Skills, and Learning at Google.Alex Kotran is the CEO of the AI Education Project.Dan Meyer is the vice president of User Growth at Amplify.Jake Tawney is the chief academic officer at Great Hearts Academies.

Send us a textOn this episode of The Sustainable Business Spotlight, I sit down with Jestine, founder of Sustainable Classrooms, a Montana-based nonprofit, turning plastic waste into building blocks for education in Togo, West Africa. We talk about tackling plastic pollution, working across cultures, and building classrooms with locally sourced materials, all while creating jobs and improving student access to food and healthcare.Jestine shares how a post-college trip turned into a mission to build more than just infrastructure. With a small but mighty team on the ground and a growing community of supporters, she's proving that one idea, and one brick at a time, can make a global impact.Whether you're working on your own eco-startup or looking for inspiration to take action, this episode highlights how grassroots solutions can drive sustainable change.In this episode: 01:33 – How a trip to Southeast Asia and Africa sparked the idea 03:54 – Living in Togo and building trust with the local community 06:34 – Turning shredded plastic into bricks for classrooms 09:05 – Connecting with students through language and shared experience 13:50 – How power outages are shaping their shift to solar energy 16:57 – Supporting students with school lunches and health programs 19:36 – Ways to support Sustainable Classrooms and follow their journeyIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who cares about sustainability!Links:Website: https://www.sustainableclassrooms.eco/Instagram: @sustainable_classroomsFacebook: Sustainable Classrooms LinkedIn: Sustainable ClassroomsTikTok: @sustainable_classroomsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIUFEMKEkIa5C5kHKyK-pQAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

In this episode, Becca from Good Natured Learning shares how her work has expanded from Colorado to Kenya, piloting Outdoor Learning Collaborations in two schools within Nairobi's informal settlements. She breaks down the Spaces–Systems–Skills model, the power of co-creation with teachers and communities, and the vision to bring this work to 12+ Kenyan schools in 2026.

Artificial Intelligence is now widely embedded in industry from workforce recruitment and healthcare to business operations and design, transforming how people work and solve problems. In education, the conversation often centers on AI as a subject to be taught, a skill to be practiced, or a risk to be managed. Concerns around cheating and plagiarism have dominated early classroom discourse. What is emerging now, however, is a more productive shift: the opportunity to reframe AI not as the goal itself, but as an enabler that unlocks new possibilities for teaching, learning, creativity, and school design.rnrnLeading organizations in this sector are moving beyond AI literacy alone and toward AI fluency - the confidence and ability to build solutions, workflows, and learning experiences with AI that expand what educators and students can achieve. From rapid ideation to personalized learning pathways, AI is proving most powerful when it strengthens human capacity rather than replacing it.rnrnPanelists in this forum see AI as an enabler that expands what schools and educators can achieve, not the subject itself. ISTE and ASCD, guided by Chief Innovation Officer Joseph South, focus on AI-enabled learning environments that amplify teaching and accelerate responsible innovation. The Reinvention Lab, where senior designer Mike Yates leads future-of-learning prototyping, helps students and educators invent educational solutions faster. Vero Learning, led by Chrissybil Boulin, is the first decision intelligence platform that measures how people think, adapt and decide under pressure. At TIES, Jeremy Shorr works with organizations, schools, and policy makers to scale innovation and deepen student learning by using AI to expand educator capacity, transform systems, and change outcomes.

In many Western classrooms, the mobile phone is viewed as the "forbidden fruit", a primary source of distraction that must be banned, confiscated, or locked away in magnetic pouches. Teachers and parents alike are exhausted by the constant battle over "screen time," whilst struggling to engage students in an education system that hasn't evolved in decades. Lectures are often unengaging, leading students to drift away, yet we blame the device rather than the delivery. Is this prohibitive approach a catastrophic mistake? Stephen Hodges warns that Western nations risk being "digitally leapfrogged" by developing economies. In regions like rural Uganda or Brazil, the student's personal mobile is not a toy; it is a lifeline to quality education amidst a massive shortage of qualified teachers. By demonising the technology our children use most, we risk missing "the biggest opportunity in education that we've seen in millennia". Furthermore, focusing solely on restricting minutes creates unnecessary conflict at home, failing to teach the critical self-regulation skills young people desperately need. This episode of The EdTech Podcast offers a way forward by shifting the narrative from "Screen Time" to "Screen Purpose". Philippa Wraithmell sits down with three experts to explore how we can embrace technology rather than fight it: •    Stephen Hodges (Efekta): Reveals how AI teaching assistants on personal phones are solving the teacher shortage crisis and delivering personalised learning in emerging markets. •    Adam Huh Dam (Stick 'Em): Demonstrates how STEAM education is reaching the most remote areas using nothing but smartphones and internet access. •    Payal Patel (Digital Bridge): Provides actionable strategies for parents to build "digital confidence" and healthy boundaries at home without the conflict. Tune in to discover why the device in your pocket might just be the most powerful educational asset we have.

Exploring innovation where education meets entrepreneurship. About Durga Suresh-Menon Durga Suresh-Menon, Ph.D., is Head of School at New England Innovation Academy. An energizing, dynamic and growth-minded educator with a record of inclusive leadership and passionate storytelling, Dr. Suresh-Menon joins NEIA with over two decades of collaborative higher-education experience, academic program development and a unique understanding of what makes students successful. She has a rich background in higher education, leadership, curriculum development, and academic excellence. Before joining NEIA, she served as Dean of the School of Computing and Data Science and Dean of Graduate Education at Wentworth Institute of Technology, as well as an Associate Professor, where she led efforts to implement progressive learning strategies and interdisciplinary curriculum that promoted innovation and global awareness. She is recognized for her work fostering a culture of growth, development and innovation, ensuring that a STEAM curriculum remains aligned with the ever-evolving technological landscape and industry demands. Fluent in multiple languages, Dr. Suresh-Menon loves to connect with tech-minded students and parents from all backgrounds, and brings a global perspective and collaborative spirit to NEIA's academic community. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hello.neia/ Twitter: https://x.com/helloneia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelloNEIA/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/durga-suresh-menon/ About John Camp (he goes by Camp) Camp has been teaching in independent schools for over 25 years. His experience includes English and writing classes as well as interdisciplinary courses such as “The Art and Physics of Time Travel.” At St. Mark's School, which bestowed him with The Trustees Chair and the Kidder Faculty Prize, Camp served as the Director of Experiential Learning and Associate Director of The Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning. A pair of his pedagogical mantras include “I aim to teach what cannot be Googled” and “I expect you to work hard, so I work hard.” He has a B.A. English/Creative Writing from Middlebury College and M.A.L.S. from Dartmouth College. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hello.neia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelloNEIA/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campsm/ Resources https://neiacademy.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-england-innovation-academy/  John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/appsevents  Twitter: https://twitter.com/appdkt  Web: www.appsevents.com Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we'll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Sheri Few, founder and president of U.S. Parents Involved in Education (USPIE), joins the show to discuss the disturbing decision by a New York middle school principal to block Holocaust survivor Sami Steigmann from speaking to students, because his views were deemed too “pro-Israel” for a public school. Sheri breaks down what this censorship reveals about the growing ideological bias in education, the eroding role of parents in what their children are allowed to learn, and how USPIE is fighting to restore local control, transparency, and true historical education in America's schools.

State Senator Vincent Hughes, representing Philadelphia in the legislature since the mid-1980s, joins host Trenae Nuri for our weekly Wednesday politics show to talk about his bill to ban students from using phones in schools (⁠which advanced yesterday to a vote in the senate⁠), a new law to prevent discrimination based on hair (which was signed into law last month), and the reasons why SEPTA still needs more money (despite the recent bailouts) .  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: ⁠Hey Philly⁠ Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ We're also on Instagram: ⁠@citycastphilly⁠ You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Aura Frames⁠ - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise

Today our guest is Dr. David Jortner, professor of Theatre Arts and graduate program director in the department of Theatre Arts at Baylor University. Dr. Jortner teaches theatre history, theory, dramatic literature, and directing. His research focuses on twentieth century Japanese theatre and the intersection of Japanese and American culture. Through his work with graduate students, teaching the more “academic” subjects of theatre, and teaching larger services courses for non-majors, David has developed his own approach to compassionate teaching. And we are delighted to have him on the show to discuss compassion as norms, paying attention to students, how AI can't interpret art, and much more.  

As always, the podcast is around whatever topic that Luana Anders, our moderator on the Flipside wants to discuss. In this case, it was about how to modify stress, how to change the paradigm, and most importantly, to talk about Santa. I make a joke about how you never see Santa and Satan in the same room - both have the same letters, both wear red outfits, what's up with that? Jennifer avoids answering me and talks about how Luana is making a connection between Jesus and Santa. I offer an explanation and Jennifer "taps her nose" which is how Luana shows her that I'm on the right path. The idea that Santa represents a gift giver, someone who gives gifts without asking for anything in return - no loyalty, no fealty, no religions beliefs - just flat out, "here's the gift I'm giving you based on what you need." Jesus - in terms of the data, the research (see THE GREATEST STORY NEVER TOLD AS TOLD BY JESUS AND THOSE WHO KNEW HIM for context) - he shows up in 15% of NDE's whether people believe in him or not, so it's not a religious point that is being made. It's a giving point. And when Jesus shows up, people talk about feeling "unconditional love" or "indescribable joy" or "non judgmental acceptance." All of which could be viewed as "Gifts" to give someone.  Luana talks about how the world would shift in 24 hours if everyone on it could give unconditional love for that time frame - but suggests that just doing ten minutes of focused meditation a day - and giving yourself love while doing it, is a way to chip away at the problem. Again - Luana Anders is my pal who I was with for 20 years, who died in my arms in 1996. When I first started meeting up with Jennifer over 10 years ago, she talked about Luana being in the room - and eventually we realized that she brought us together. In this podcast, for the first time, I realize that Luana is "teaching a class on the flipside" (parts of which include this podcast) where she's showing people offstage how to communicate to a denser realm, using telepathy or by reaching out to someone like Jennifer whose filters are lowered or down. Jennifer talks about how her doctors have suggested that her being in the Delta state for a number of hours per day, has healed her brain from the traumatic injury she experienced after a car accident many years ago.  Her doctors have suggested that its her work that has helped to heal her brain. However, that also means that her filters are less than others - and the density of our realm is what the class is about.  It's another mind bending podcast, but the discussion is lighthearted. Eddie Hassell, the later actors makes an appearance at the beginning to explain how and why he "set off the fire alarm" in Jennifer's home (to reach out to his mother).   Then I recount the battery on my car dying - and Luana said that was "done to prevent you from having a car accident that day."  It sounds like wishful thinking, except I wasn't aware I'd left the flashers on the car on - didn't see them in the garage, didn't hear them as I normally would.  All I can say is "Thank Lu, I appreciate it."  She also said she was with me and my pals and family on Thanksgiving - which is a fun thing to consider.   Again another mind bending podcast and it includes Santa!!!

Brad and Dan return with a packed Weekly Roundup that cuts through the noise of culture war headlines to get at what is really happening in American politics and religion this week. They start with the bizarre story dominating Congress: alleged Venezuelan narco boats, U.S. military strikes, and the growing scrutiny around Pete Hegseth's involvement. Brad and Dan unpack the legal and ethical questions raised by the operation, the bipartisan concerns over potential war crimes, and the way Hegseth's rhetoric is being weaponized in the larger project of authoritarian politics. As blame shifts within the administration, the hosts look at how these events fit into a longer pattern of circumventing democratic norms under the guise of national security. From there, the episode moves into the latest culture war flashpoint out of Oklahoma. A University of Oklahoma student, Samantha Fulnecky, received a failing grade on a paper centered on conservative Christian claims, and the incident was quickly inflated into a statewide moral panic. Brad and Dan trace how a classroom disagreement became a coordinated spectacle, how politicians and media personalities seized on the moment, and what the uproar reveals about academic freedom and the pressure educators face in a polarized climate. They discuss the difference between expressing a viewpoint and meeting academic standards, and why higher education has become a convenient battleground for Christian nationalist narratives. The hosts also break down the Supreme Court's decision to keep Texas's contested congressional maps in place for 2026. They examine the racial and partisan consequences of the ruling, what political leaders are saying in response, and how the decision fits into a broader assault on voting rights and democratic representation. Despite the heavy topics, Brad and Dan close with reasons for hope. They highlight ongoing pushback against authoritarian politics, communities organizing for justice, and signs that democratic accountability remains possible. Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 1000+ episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Subscribe to Teología Sin Vergüenza Subscribe to American Exceptionalism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 242 digs into the messy rollout of ChatGPT for Teachers and what it means for districts. We discuss the first‑in admin problem, educator verification (pay‑stub/DNS issues), SSO/SAML concerns, the 18‑month trial/pricing uncertainty, and whether OpenAI rushed the launch to capture market share. We also cover recent news: the FTC's action against Illuminate over a 2021 data breach and the Department of Education's tentative agreements to shift programs to other federal agencies. Plus Jeff from VIZOR joins to explain asset and device management features, repair workflows, and budgeting/ROI. ———— Sponsored by: Meter - meter.com/k12techtalk Visit meter.com/k12techtalk to book a demo!   Extreme Networks - dmayer@extremenetworks.com Fortinet - fortinetpodcast@fortinet.com Lightspeed - lightspeedsystems.com VIZOR - vizor.cloud/k12techtalk   ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com Call us at 314-329-0363 X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

On this episode of The Federalist Radio Hour, Priscilla West, researcher for the Government Accountability Institute and a chapter chair of Moms for Liberty, joins Federalist Senior Elections Correspondent Matt Kittle to unveil how diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, disguised as "social emotional learning," are sold to schools as "education" and explain how concerned parents can fight back against the collectivism controlling classrooms across the U.S.You can find West's book The New Face of Woke Education here.If you care about combating the corrupt media that continue to inflict devastating damage, please give a gift to help The Federalist do the real journalism America needs.   

Anatol Lieven discusses the institutionalization of the Ukraine war, highlighted by children being trained to fly drones in classrooms. This blend of new technology and old societal militarization creates a "bloodless war" perception, potentially making conflict psychologically easier. He also addresses the argument that "stagnating states" are militarizing to maintain power, fueling conflicts and reasserting spheres of influence (a "new economic Monroe Doctrine"). The US is critically involved, enabling Ukrainian targeting capabilities. 1940

Anatol Lieven discusses the institutionalization of the Ukraine war, highlighted by children being trained to fly drones in classrooms. This blend of new technology and old societal militarization creates a "bloodless war" perception, potentially making conflict psychologically easier. He also addresses the argument that "stagnating states" are militarizing to maintain power, fueling conflicts and reasserting spheres of influence (a "new economic Monroe Doctrine"). The US is critically involved, enabling Ukrainian targeting capabilities.