Podcast appearances and mentions of tom vander ark

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jamie Merisotis, CEO of the Lumina Foundation, about the evolving landscape of work and education in the age of artificial intelligence. As industries rapidly adopt AI technologies, Jamie shares insights on how human work is transforming and the crucial role of credentialing in ensuring economic prosperity. The conversation highlights the importance of redefining educational goals to include not only degrees but also valuable credentials that align with the demands of the modern workforce. Tune in to explore how AI is reshaping professions, why empathy and human skills remain essential, and how Lumina Foundation's ambitious goal aims to have 75% of the U.S. workforce equipped with meaningful credentials by 2040. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of work and education. Outline  (00:00) Introduction and Key Questions (02:29) AI's Rapid Adoption and Implications (07:38) Future of Work and Job Displacement (10:58) Entrepreneurship in the Age of AI (13:19) Higher Education's Role in the AI Era (18:22) Redesigning Higher Education (23:14) Lumina Foundation's Future Goals (26:38) Conclusion and Acknowledgements Links: Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Jamie Merisotis LinkedIn Lumina Foundation New Lumina Vision Human Work in the Age of Smart Machines Diverse Teams Smart Tools Blog National Council for Workforce Education

In this enlightening episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark and Dr. Kaleb Rashad engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with Dr. Michael Fullan, an internationally acclaimed advocate for deeper learning. Together, they explore whether deeper learning is the key to addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the new age of AI. Dr. Fullan introduces the concept of "systemness," emphasizing the need for systemic change over isolated educational initiatives. The conversation covers the transformative progress in Anaheim, driven by the integration of systemness and the five Cs of compassionate learning. Tune in to discover how AI can be a powerful accelerator for education when underpinned by a strong pedagogical and cultural foundation, and what it means to cultivate spirit work in learning environments. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone interested in the future of education and AI's role in it. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Deep Learning and AI (02:30) Systemness: The Key to Educational Transformation (05:55) Challenges and Successes in Anaheim (08:52) The Impact of PISA and System Change (10:13) Bottom-Up Change: Building Capacity from the Ground Up (14:45) The Five Elements of Systemness (17:30) AI in Education: Opportunities and Cautions (21:14) Spirit Work and Collaboration (31:35) Nuance in Leadership Links Watch the video here Read the full blog Kaleb Rashad Linked In Michael Fullan Press Kit Michael's Books Mentioned In This Episode Leading in a Culture of Change The New Meaning of Educational Change 6th Edition Nuance: Why Some Leaders Succeed and Others Fail Coherence eKadence Education Reimaged The Creation of Settings and the Future Societies Getting Beyond Better offers a primer for social entrepreneurs Humility is the New Smart Michael Fullan Sees Global Momentum for Deep Learning

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Kathleen deLaski, author of "Who Needs College Anymore?" to explore the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. DeLaski challenges traditional views on college education, delving into how the rise of alternative pathways like apprenticeships and dual enrollment are reshaping post-secondary education. They discuss the implications of the Great Recession, the impact of AI, and the role of experience as the new "silver bullet" in career advancement. Tune in to discover why the four-year degree might not be the only or best option for today's learners and how these changes are influencing the future of work and education. Outline (00:00) Introduction: Who Needs College Anymore? (02:34) The Changing Perception of Higher Education (04:27) The Great Recession's Impact on College Value (07:21) Is College for All Dead? (09:25) Who Needs College? Exploring Different Personas (14:17) The Rise and Fall of Bootcamps and MOOCs (20:45) The Future of Apprenticeships (24:03) The Step Ladder Approach to Higher Education (28:43) AI and the Future of Higher Education Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here Who Needs College Anymore? LinkedIn Substack Education Design Lab deLaski Family Foundation Blog on the Northeastern Co-op Model Riipen Ryan Craig on Apprenticeships Reach University  

Send us a textTom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations, and learning organizations on the path forward. Tom is the author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together, The Power of Place, and Difference Making at the Heart of Learning. He has published thousands of articles and papers through GettingSmart.com and LinkedIn.Previously he launched one of the first edtech venture funds, was president of the X-Prize Foundation, served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Tom served as a public school superintendent in Washington State and has extensive private sector experience. He serves on the board of Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, Mastery Transcript Consortium, and Getting Smart Collective and advises schools, impact organizations and edtech startups.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sara Schapiro, the director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation. Together, they explore the critical need for enhanced research and development (R&D) within the education sector—an area historically underfunded compared to other industries like healthcare. The discussion delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of education R&D, highlighting the importance of both federal and state-level support in developing interoperable data systems that drive innovation. Sara emphasizes the essential role of venture capital and design research in shaping the future of EdTech, while also stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in schools. This episode serves as a call to action for educators, policymakers, and parents to collaboratively advocate for stronger R&D infrastructure, ensuring that every student benefits from cutting-edge educational strategies. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of education innovation and the pathways to achieving it. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Need for More R&D in Education (01:21) Introducing Sarah Schapiro and the Alliance for Learning Innovation (02:56) Challenges in Education R&D Funding (08:10) State-Level Data Systems and Federal Support (10:23) Higher Education and Research Incentives (13:12) Venture Capital in EdTech (16:30) The Role of Federal Government in Education R&D (22:50) Conclusion: Collaboration and Next Steps Links Watch the full video here Read the blog here Sara Schapiro LinkedIn Sara Schapiro Forbes Digital Promise  Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI) ALI Policy Recommendations for 2025 The Need Act Erin Mote Project Unicorn (Interoperability) ALI Funding Analysis SOLD Alliance Reach Capital Rethink Impact

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark chats with Don Wettrick, CEO of the StartEdUp Foundation, to explore the future of entrepreneurship education. Don Wettrick talks about how the foundation is transforming high school students into proactive problem-solvers and innovators through initiatives like the Innovate Within pitch competition. This program empowers young minds by encouraging them to tackle real-world problems, leveraging tools like AI to enhance opportunity recognition, design thinking, and impactful execution. Wettrick gets into the importance of embedding entrepreneurship as a universal skill set that can be applied across various careers, enabling students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset that extends beyond just starting businesses. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Entrepreneurship in the Age of AI (03:15) Entrepreneurship as a Universal Skill (06:30) Challenges in Teaching Entrepreneurship (07:57) Teacher Accelerator and Fellowship Program (12:54) Success Stories and Impact (18:57) The Role of AI in Modern Entrepreneurship (21:55) Vision for Innovation Hubs in Schools (24:10) Advice for Young Entrepreneurs and Educators (25:57) Encouraging Problem-Solving at Home (28:04) Closing Thoughts and Final Tips Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation and Taking 20% Time to the Next Level Don Wettrick's LinkedIn StartEdUp Foundation Don Wettrick's Blog Don Wettrick's X

Mark your calendars for SXSW EDU March 3-6, 2025 in Austin, Texas, and register now at sxswedu.com. Let's work together to shape the future of education—one idea at a time. In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark interviews Abby Falik, founder of The Flight School, a transformative educational initiative aimed at high school graduates. The Flight School offers an innovative "launch year," encouraging young adults to step beyond traditional educational paths, explore personal passions, and engage in aligned work that addresses world needs. The program emphasizes experiential learning, global immersion, and self-discovery, distinguishing itself from the typical gap year by fostering skills such as resilience, empathy, and agency. During the conversation, Falik articulates the importance of redefining success and education in a rapidly evolving world, aiming to prepare a generation of leaders equipped to navigate and contribute to a future shaped by global challenges and opportunities. The Flight School's model, designed for scalability, seeks to involve a million students by 2035, making the experience accessible to diverse youth worldwide. Falik invites listeners to support and participate in expanding this vision, highlighting the broader societal shift towards valuing personal and communal impact over conventional academic achievements. Outline (04:16) The Concept of a Launch Year (06:55) Components of the Flight School Program (14:25) Skills and Community Building (23:44) Scaling the Flight School Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Abby Falik  The Flight School Previous Podcast with Abby

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we explore LEGOs exciting new venture into science education with their latest K-8 curriculum. Tom Vander Ark chats with Bo Stjerne Thomsen, head of LEGO Education, about how this innovative, inquiry-based learning approach is set to transform classrooms by integrating hands-on science experiences aligned with NGSS standards. Designed to reignite students' curiosity and creativity, these engaging kits are perfect for fostering critical thinking and collaboration. Join us as we delve into how LEGO's playful learning strategies can make science fun and accessible, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of discovery and learning. Listen in to find out how these resources are reshaping the educational landscape for both traditional and micro-schools. Outline (00:47) LEGO's New Science Curriculum Announcement (01:31) Insights from Bo Stern Thompson on LEGO Education (05:05) Details of the New Curriculum and Its Implementation (21:22) Future Prospects and Conclusion Links Read the full blog here  Watch the full video here LinkedIn Bo Stjerne Thomsen EdWeek Feature LEGO Education Science LEGO Education Science Press Release

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dennis "Doc" Littky, an educational innovator whose work with Big Picture Learning and College Unbound is reshaping the landscape of personalized and experiential education. From the inception of Big Picture Learning, which challenges conventional schooling with its "leaving to learn" model, to the founding of College Unbound, a transformative institution serving adult learners, Littky shares his journey and insights. He discusses the importance of making education relevant and personalized, with each student following their unique path. Tune in to discover how Littky's visionary approach is influencing schools worldwide and paving new pathways for students of all ages. Outline (00:00) The Beginnings of Big Picture Learning (00:59) A Conversation with Dennis Littky (04:58) Innovative Education Models (17:08) Expanding the Vision: College Unbound (27:01) Reflections and Future Plans Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Dennis Littky Bio The MET High School Big Picture Learning

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark delves into the innovative educational approaches of Tacoma Public Schools, highlighting their commitment to integrating college and career readiness into a unified pathway. Partnering with Tacoma, Tom speaks with Adam Kulaas, Director of Innovative Learning, who shares insights on how the district is empowering students for life readiness. The focus is on engaging learners in meaningful work today while preparing them for future opportunities through practical, real-world applications. This approach is not just about bridging the gap between education and industry but fostering a mindset that values both the "now" and "next" stages of a student's journey. The conversation also explores Tacoma's strategic partnerships and the diverse pathways available to students, such as the Jobs 253 program and dual-credit opportunities. These partnerships, including collaborations with local industries and educational institutions, are key to providing students with hands-on experiences and credentials that are relevant to the current job market. Tacoma's approach embodies an asset-based model of education, where existing resources are leveraged to create robust, personalized learning experiences. This episode serves as an inspiring example of how intentional pathways can transform education, ensuring all students have access to high-wage employment and lifelong learning opportunities.   Outline (00:00) Introduction to New Pathways (00:29) Tacoma Public Schools' Innovative Learning (02:07) Life Readiness and Career Tech Education (08:51) Comprehensive High Schools and Pathways (17:46) Future Projects and Community Partnerships Links: Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Adam Kulaas Linkedin Tacoma Public Schools

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark delves into the intricacies of workforce development and public leadership with Jennifer Purcell, the director of Future Ready Oregon. This state-level initiative represents a groundbreaking approach to aligning education and workforce systems, with a strong emphasis on equity and access. Jennifer shares insights into how Future Ready Oregon has successfully secured over $200 million in funding to support diverse learners and workers, creating pathways that connect education and high-demand career opportunities. The conversation highlights innovative programs like Workforce Navigators, which address broader needs such as transportation and childcare, ensuring equitable access to education and training. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Key Topics (00:58) Deep Dive into Workforce Development (02:12) Exploring Future Ready Oregon (10:59) Innovative Programs and Grants (28:22) Public Leadership and Personal Journey Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Jennifer Purcell LinkedIn Future Ready Oregon Health Pathways Publication

In this episode of the Getting Smart podcast, Tom Vander Ark is in conversation with Laura Slover and Mike Flanagan, focusing on the transformative initiatives in education being spearheaded by ETS and the Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC). The discussion gets into the Skills for the Future initiative, emphasizing the shift from traditional education models towards competency-based education that aligns with the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. This initiative, a collaboration between ETS and the Carnegie Foundation, seeks to broaden educational goals beyond conventional academics to include essential skills like communication, critical thinking, and civic engagement. By embedding innovative assessment tools in several states, the program aims to capture authentic evidence of student learning both in and out of the classroom, thus preparing students more effectively for future challenges. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (01:26) The Role of Achieve and the Standards Movement (06:11) Mastery Transcript Consortium: Origins and Goals (09:33) Skills for the Future Initiative (22:05) Future of Education: Assessments and Signals Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Laura Slover LinkedIn Mike Flanagan LinkedIn Skills Transcripts at Scale: Why The ETS & MTC Partnership is a Big Deal Skills for the Future announcement States Announcement Skills for the Future Press Release A New Visio for Skills-Based Assessment Paper

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Rachelle Dené Poth, an esteemed educator, author, and ed tech expert, about the integration of AI in education. Rachelle shares insights from her latest book, How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities into Any Content Area, highlighting the importance of using AI to enhance language learning and foster innovation among students. They discuss the evolving landscape of education with AI tools like Google Translate and ChatGPT, the critical need for professional development to keep up with emerging technologies, and the potential of AI to transform both teaching and learning experiences.  Outline: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (02:04) Language Learning and AI (09:53) AI in Education: Strategies and Impact (20:23) Relational AI and Voice Interfaces (28:00) Future of AI in Education and Conclusion Links Watch the full episode here View the full blog here Rachelle Dené Poth How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities into Any Content Area  Rachelle Dené Poth Getting Smart Posts  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by project-based learning (PBL) advocate Kyle Wagner to delve into the transformative power of PBL in creating student-centered environments. Kyle shares his journey from visiting innovative schools like High Tech High to becoming a global ambassador for PBL. They discuss how these educational models foster creativity, agency, and purpose among students, and explore the broader implications for education systems worldwide. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or parent, this episode provides valuable insights into how project-based learning can reshape the future of education. Tune in to learn about Kyle's new book, "Where's the Teacher? 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments," and discover strategies for implementing PBL in your own educational context. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Project-Based Learning (02:20) The Magic of High Tech High (07:52) Transition to International Education (14:15) Exploring the Global Stage (33:49) The Future of Project-Based Learning Links Watch the full video here View the full blog here Kyle Wagner Transform School Kyle Wagner Author Page on Getting Smart Where's the Teacher: The 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments High Tech High One Stone 12 Shifts to Move from Teacher-Led to Student-Centered Environments by Kyle Wagner Kaleb Rashad on the Getting Smart Podcast Center for Love and Justice Better Leaders Better Schools Subscribe to our newsletter!  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Rachel Davison Humphries, Senior Director of Civic Learning Initiative at the Bill of Rights Institute. They explore the urgent need for robust civics education amidst a rapidly evolving socio-political landscape. Rachel emphasizes the role of civics in strengthening community ties and fostering democratic dispositions in students. The conversation also explores innovative ways to integrate civics across curricula, the state of civics education, and the invaluable resources provided by the Bill of Rights Institute to support teachers. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about preparing students for active and informed citizenship! Outline Introduction to civics education The State of Civics Education Integrating Civics Across the Curriculum The Role of the Bill of Rights Institute Advice for Civics Teachers Links: Watch the full episode here View the full blog here Bill of Rights Institute Rachel Davison Humphries My Impact Challenge Stories from Winners of the My Impact Challenge Subscribe to our newsletter  

In this episode of the Getting Smart podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Lisa Gevelber, Vice President at Google and founder of Grow with Google. They discuss the transformative impact of Grow with Google, a program designed to provide alternative career pathways through online certificates in high-demand fields.  The conversation also delves into the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Lisa discusses the launch of the Google Gen AI for Educators course, developed in partnership with MIT. This free, online professional development course aims to help teachers understand and effectively use AI tools in their classrooms. The course covers practical applications of AI, such as customizing lesson plans and creating assessments, while also addressing responsible AI usage. Outline Introduction and Overview Creating Alternative Pathways Structure and Impact of Career Certificates Skills-Based Hiring and AI Integration AI Literacy and Future Directions Links Watch the full conversation here View the full transcript here Lisa Gevelber LinkedIn AI Essentials Course AI for Educators Course Anaheim Union High School District  UT system Google Teacher Center Subscribe to our newsletter!  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks to Conrad Wolfram, CEO of Wolfram Research and author of The Math Fix, to discuss the evolving role of computational thinking in education. They explore how the surge in computational power and AI can transform math education by moving away from manual calculations and focusing on real-world problem-solving. Conrad Wolfram shares insights on the necessity of integrating computational tools into the curriculum, emphasizing that modern education should prepare students for complex problem-solving using AI and natural language interfaces. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities in updating math education to reflect these advancements, aiming to equip students with skills relevant to today's tech-driven world. Outline The Evolution of Human-Computer Interaction The Role of Natural Language in AI Revolutionizing Math Education Future of Computational Thinking in Education Links Watch the Full Conversation Conrad Wolfram Website Conrad Wolfram Bio Language Matters, and What Matters Has Changed by Conrad Wolfram Conrad Wolfram on Computational Thinking The Math(s) Fix Review by Rachelle Dene Poth South Fayette Computational Thinking Digital Promise - Computational Thinking US Math Wars by Conrad Wolfram Subscribe to Our Newsletter!

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks to Dr. Candy Van Buskirk, Assistant Superintendent of the Career Academy Network in South Bend, Indiana, to discuss her new book, 'Learn Outside. They talk about the innovative educational strategies at Career Academy Network and the goals of the new pathways campaign aiming to link students to economic mobility, focusing on experiential learning through career academies. Outline Career Academy Network: Origin and Vision Experiential Learning and Dual Enrollment Insights from Leading Educational Models Concluding Thoughts and Future Direction Links Watch the full conversation Dr. Candida Van Buskirk Learn Outside Career Academy Network of Public Schools Samueli Academy SEED Academy (Los Angeles) Da Vinci RISE High Tech High Cajon Valley Larry Rosenstock David Miyashiro Bostonia Global RIASEC Recent Ed Hidalgo Blog World of Work Nerel Winter ASA One Stone Growth Transcript Michael Matsuda Podcast Museum School in Grand Rapids Michael Fullan Scott Bess Purdue Polytechnic Dr. Katie Jenner Indiana Diploma Pathway Subscribe to our newsletter!

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks with Jean-Claude Brizard, CEO of Digital Promise They talk about the organization's unique congressional mandate and its role in educational innovation.  They explain how Digital Promise has exceptional access to U.S. government agencies, enhancing its impact on educational policy and practice. Brizard discusses the power networks like the League of Innovative Schools have in credentialing and micro-credentials for teachers, and the concept of 'powerful learning' that includes student agency and advanced pedagogies. They explore inclusive innovation processes that integrate voices from all community stakeholders, and reflect on Brizard's past work on transforming New York City's high schools. This conversation highlights Digital Promise's commitment to advancing education through research, technology, and innovative practices. Outline Jean-Claude Brizard's Journey Transforming New York City Schools Innovative Networks and Powerful Learning Future of Credentialing and Inclusive Innovation Links Jean-Claude Brizard LinkedIn Digital Promise  League of Innovative Schools Conversation at CoSN Michelle Cahill Joel Klein Springpoint Schools Skills Transcripts at Scale: Why The ETS & MTC Partnership is a Big Deal Christina Luke Luna Indiana Diploma Pathway Click Here to Watch The Conversation Click Here for The Full Transcript Subscribe to our newsletter!  

Hello team and welcome back to the Learning Future Podcast! It's been quite a while since our last release, but we're excited to bring you a special episode today. We're taking a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of Season 7, aptly titled "Education Transformed," and offering a glimpse into the exciting content we have lined up for Season 8.Season 7 Retrospective:Season 7 was an extraordinary collaboration with the international think tank, Salzburg Global Seminar. As a multiple-time fellow, I've witnessed firsthand their efforts to bridge divides and foster leadership globally. We kicked off the season with Dominic Regester, Director of the Center for Education Transformation at Salzburg Global Seminar. Dominic set the stage for our discussions on transforming education, moving beyond merely improving the old model to creating something fundamentally new and impactful.Throughout the season, we engaged with 20 remarkable educators, designers, innovators, and thought leaders. Highlights include:Dr. Anantha Duraiappah from the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, who discussed the power of cognition and social-emotional learning.John Goodwin and Chris Purifoy from the Learning Economy Foundation, who explored the concept of a learning economy and transferable credentials.Gavin Dykes from the Education World Forum, who emphasized the importance of global collaboration in education.Professor Frank Oberklaid, a pediatrician and public health expert, who spoke on centering child well-being in education systems.Tom Vander Ark from Getting Smart, who shared insights on AI in education and the role of passion and purpose in learning.We also had enlightening conversations with educators like Franco Mosso from Enseña Perú, who dreams of a nation of young changemakers, and Romana Shaikh, who underscored the need for self-transformation for systemic change.Our discussions touched on various themes, from humanizing technology in education to fostering curiosity and resilience. The season concluded with profound reflections from Professor Stephanie Jones from Harvard's EASEL Lab and Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the International Baccalaureate.Season 8 Preview:As we look forward to Season 8, I'm thrilled to share that we have already recorded eight episodes featuring some of the world's most insightful educators and thinkers.Rebecca Winthrop from the Brookings Institution will discuss agency and relationships in student engagement.Charles Fadel, author of "Education for the Age of AI," will delve into the implications of AI on learning.Mette Miriam Boell from MIT will share insights on building compassionate, living system-based educational models.We also have an exciting series featuring colleagues from the Stanford D School, who will present innovative approaches to creative education.Closing:Thank you so much for joining us on this journey. Your support and engagement are what make this podcast possible. If you have any suggestions or want to share your thoughts, reach out to us at hello@thelearningfuture.com or connect with us on LinkedIn at Louka Parry or The Learning Future. We'd love to hear from you and learn about your work as an educator, innovator, or leader.Until next time, thanks for listening and stay tuned for an incredible Season 8!Stay connected with us for updates and new episodes. Subscribe to the Learning Future Podcast on your favorite platform, and don't forget to leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow and bring you the best content in education transformation.

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is sponsored by Mrs. Wordsmith, learn more at mrswordsmith.com On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Carl Gombrich, the Dean at the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), to discuss his transition from University College London (UCL) to LIS, motivated by a desire for educational innovation.  Throughout the conversation, Dr. Gombrich shared his experience of fostering interdisciplinary education at UCL and his subsequent decision to establish a new institution dedicated to this approach. He explained that traditional educational structures often inhibit interdisciplinary learning, as they are organized around distinct disciplines that do not reflect the interconnected nature of real-world problems.  

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is sponsored by Mrs. Wordsmith, learn more at mrswordsmith.com On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Shari Camhi, Superintendent of the Baldwin School District in Long Island. Together, they discuss the need for enhanced media literacy in an age where information credibility is increasingly questioned. Additionally, Dr. Camhi shares insights from her decade-long tenure in Baldwin, highlighting how her personal experiences as a parent and educator have shaped her approach to creating diverse, enriching educational experiences. She stresses the importance of adapting education to ensure each student's unique needs are met, rather than conforming to traditional, one-size-fits-all models. She argues that media literacy is essential for developing critical thinking skills, enabling students to discern between true and false information. The Baldwin School District's strategy, known as Baldwin 2035, focuses on fostering civic engagement and community connections across all grade levels. Links Dr. Shari Camhi Baldwin School District Baldwin 2035  

This special episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is a live broadcast of a conversation between Tom Vander Ark and authors from the Stanford d.school. Together they discuss four new books that speak to important aspects of this work. This conversation features Sam Seidel and Olatunde Sobomehin of Creative Hustle, Dr. Leticia Britos Cavagnaro of Experiments in Reflection, and Grace Hawthorne of Make Possibilities Happen to discuss what educators can learn and use from these books and the authors' work at the Stanford d.school and beyond. Equal parts inspiration and actionable ideas, this conversation is a great survey of meaningful works. View the full show notes here. 

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark and Shawnee Caruthers talk about a recent set of school visits in Minnesota as a part of an ongoing series of Real World Learning field trips.   The Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area is a thriving community of nearly 3 million people. Made up of 7 counties, 182 communities and 2 medium-sized, diverse urban districts (36k and 33k). Additionally, there are a couple big suburban districts like Apple Valley.  Links: School for Environmental Studies  High School for Recording Arts  Dallas School Visits Podcast Episode Cajon Valley Public Schools xello.com Real-World Learning Case Study Sam Seidel - Hip Hop Genius Ford Next Generation  Learning Belton High St Paul Public Schools Shakopee High Burnsville High  School for Environmental Studies High School for Recording Arts  Avalon School  Exploration High School  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Ryan Lufkin, VP of Academic Strategy at Instructure.   Links: Ryan Lufkin LinkedIn Instructure Portfolium Canvas Credentials Parchment End of last year release - stratification

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast Shawnee Caruthers and Tom Vander Ark discuss a recent set of school visits in Dallas, Texas. These schools do an incredible job of showcasing dual enrollment, pathway management, business partnerships and building culture in their schools.  These schools create radical new pathways to economic mobility and cultures of possibility. Links: BigThought The Future of Learning with Dr. Pamela Moran, Byron Sanders and Dr. Ed Hess Remake Learning Dallas County Promise Economic Mobility High: The New End Game for America's High Schools 60x30TX Initiative Molina B Tech Adamson P Tech IDEA  Career Institutes St. Vrain Valley Schools Dr. Don Haddad and Dr. Jackie Kapushion on St. Vrain Schools and Innovation Centers San Diego School Visits Blog Fort Osage Cajon Valley  Phoenix Chamber of Commerce CAPS Network | Building and Growing Community Partnerships Paul Quinn College Oppti Skillsline  

Join your community March 4-7 in Austin, Texas for SXSW EDU 2024 to help create a new tomorrow for learners everywhere! Go to sxswedu.com/attend/ to learn more. On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Lydia Logan, Vice President, Global Education and Workforce Development, Corporate Social Responsibility at IBM.  Together, Lydia and Tom talk about the credentialing landscape, the rise of green skills and how IBM is bridging those worlds with SkillsBuilds. Links:  Lydia Logan Press Release IBM SkillsBuild IBM Commits to Train 2 Million in Artificial Intelligence in Three Years, with a Focus on Underrepresented Communities (Sept)  IBM Commits to Skill 30 Million People Globally by 2030 (oct)  Justina Nixon-Saintil on Corporate Social Responsibility and the Rise of P-TECH  

This episode is an overview of a recent contribution to a publication from the Hoover Institute written by Tom Vander Ark. This publication takes a look at the shift from print to digital in light of the 40th anniversary of A Nation At Risk. This era marked a shift from information scarcity to abundance, a shift from searching to sorting. It changed what, how, and where people learn, and not always for the better. In American schools, the shift to digital learning was gradual, uneven, often chaotic, expensive, and, while there was observed improvement in engagement, largely ineffective at boosting traditional outcomes.  The shift to digital learning was marked by four phases: computers in the back of the room, introduction of the World Wide Web, the rise of blended learning, and remote learning. The rise of generative AI in 2022 marks a new era of human-computer interaction.   Links: View Publication  A Nation at Risk +40 | A Review of Progress in US Public Education AI for Education Publication Amanda Bickerstaff on AI for Education Bodo Hoenen on Generative AI for Curriculum Charles Fadel on Education and Competencies for the Age of AI

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Bob Schwartz to talk about pathways to opportunity and the role of college, specifically community colleges. Bob's new book is America's Hidden Economic Engines: How Community Colleges Can Drive Shared Prosperity, which argues that community colleges need to be in the center of any national education and skills strategy. “At their best, community colleges are the most nimble, flexible, market-oriented institutions in our higher education system, working closely with employers to meet regional labor market demands.” Links: America's Hidden Economic Engines: How Community Colleges Can Drive Shared Prosperity Review of America's Hidden Economic Engines  Bob Schwartz Bio “Gold Standard: The Swiss Vocational Education and Training System” Gallup Poll Work-based learning GPS report Northeastern's Co-Op Model  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Elliot Washor, the co-founder of Big Picture Learning and author of the great new book Learning to Leave: How Real-World Learning Transforms Education. This book is the followup to the great Leaving to Learn: How Out-of-School Learning Increases Student Engagement and Reduces Dropout Rates. Elliot is also the co-founder of The Met Center in Providence, RI and has been involved in school reform for more than 50 years as a teacher, principal, administrator, video producer, and writer. He has taught and is interested in all levels of school from kindergarten through college, in urban and rural settings, across all disciplines. His work has spanned across school design, pedagogy, learning environments, new forms and new measures for learning, and is supporting others doing similar work throughout the world. Elliot's interests lie in the field of how schools can connect with communities to understand tacit and disciplinary learning both in and outside of school. Elliot is deeply committed to imagining Big Picture Learning as a ‘do-think-do' organization, and persistently pushes the boundaries of its design in order to continually innovate practice and influence in the world of education especially for those youth living in communities furthest from opportunity. Links:  B Unbound Learning to Leave: How Real-World Learning Transforms Education Leaving to Learn: How Out-of-School Learning Increases Student Engagement and Reduces Dropout Rates One Kid at a Time: Big Lessons from a Small School Big Picture Learning  Imblaze Namahana School  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Justin Reich, ED of MIT Teaching Systems Lab, host of the Teach Lab Podcast and author of Iterate: The Secret to Innovation in Schools. On this episode, they discuss the two paths to coherence: Invitational Leadership: inviting people into a shared vision Transformational Leadership: As Dr. Reich says, this is ”Bringing People Together around Ideas They Care About;.....start[ing] with understanding, honoring, and respecting what people have already accomplished, and then helping them come together around ideas that will take their work forward.” Links: John Diamond Where the Rubber Meets the Road Tom Daccord EdTech Teacher

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is brought to you by our recent publication Green Pathways, and makes the case for why ALL pathways need sustainability and green embedded. Find out more here.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined again by Navid Nathoo, a former guest on the podcast. Navid joined us a few years ago to discuss The Knowledge Society, (TKS), one of the most revolutionary problem-based high school supplements that we've seen. This time we're also joined by two TKS Learners, Theodore and Rachel. The group joins us from a sustainability summit in Switzerland.  Theodore is a 15 year old that is focused on solutions to the climate crisis. This has led him to work on climate tech projects in the lithium-ion battery space: working with a PH.D. student on her project of using ultra micro electrodes to increase the ionic conductivity of lithium-ion batteries at University of Quebec (UQAM) battery research labs. Rachel is a 16-year-old activator at The Knowledge Society (TKS), with a deep interest in CRISPR and crop improvement. She is passionate about leveraging agritech to improve agricultural productivity in developing countries.  Links:  Student Episode Foremer Episode with Navid TKS Future Class Villars Institute

Are you interested in attending one of the field's largest gatherings of K-12 education innovators? The Aurora Institute Symposium 2023 promises community, lessons about education innovation from the field, and the latest research and policy to support education transformation. Find out more here.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Kelly Smith, CEO and Founder of Prenda and author of the great new book A Fire to be Kindled: How a Generation of Empowered Learners Can Lead Meaningful Lives and Move Humanity Forward. Links: A Fire to be Kindled Description Prenda Kelly Smith Linkedin Amazon Link KindlED Podcast episode about the book

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is brought to you by our recent publication Green Pathways, and makes the case for why ALL pathways need sustainability and green embedded. Find out more here.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by repeat guest Jamie Merisotis, CEO of Lumina Foundation, a foundation committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all. We spoke with Jamie in 2020 right after the publication of Human Work in the Age of Smart Machines. Links: Lumina Foundation Human Work in the Age of Smart Machines Diverse Teams Smart Tools Blog National Council for Workforce Education

In this episode of Build Momentum, Sarah and Katie are joined by Tom Vander Ark, an advocate for innovations in learning. He is the CEO of Getting Smart, a design learning firm that helps education organizations increase their impact with innovations for a better learning experience. Tom is also a prolific writer and speaker who has authored or co-authored eight books, including “The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education” and “Smart Parents: Parenting for Powerful Learning,” and he's working on a new one. He has also been a content contributor for Forbes, LinkedIn, and Getting Smart. In his free time, Tom enjoys cycling and making vegan creations. Some Questions We Ask: What career experiences led you to launch Getting Smart? (00:44)What trends and challenges are districts facing now? (01:50)What's your take on the evolution of AI? (03:31)Can you tell us more about your new book? (11:39)What are your thoughts on developing an entrepreneurial mindset among students? (15:17)Looking ahead, what are your hopes in education? (18:14)What advice and insights do you have for other organizations hoping to follow the path you've taken? (20:03)In This Episode, You Will Learn:All about Tom Vander Ark and Getting Smart (00:53)The top challenges school districts face today (02:06)Tom's perspective about AI (03:48)About Tom's new book (11:58)His thoughts regarding entrepreneurial mindset (15:42)How to create more opportunities and environments where young people can succeed (18:24)His advice for other organizations to follow his path to success (20:34)Quotes:“The key to education today is helping students develop a sense of identity and agency, understand their strengths and interests, and then understand how and where they can act on the world, spot opportunities to make a difference, design solutions, and deliver impact to a community.”“That the rise of the platform economy has created many new ramps for people to step into employment or create a new business or campaign. It has enabled a new wave of entrepreneurship.”“We can create environments where students are experiencing success in what's next. They're actually doing work that matters. That's project-based learning. That's work-based learning. That's enterprise.”Connect with Tom:Getting Smart WebsiteTom's TwitterTom's LinkedInTom's InstagramTom's Epic Veggie Creation InstagramResources Mentioned:Human Work In the Age of Smart Machine by Jamie MerisotisTom Vander Ark BooksStay in touch with Sarah Williamson:Free Case Study GuideWebsiteLinkedInStay in touch with Katie Lash:LinkedInAbout "The Secret to Transformational Leadership," which Sarah co-authored with Dr. Quintin Shepherd:Transformational Leadership Secret websitePurchase the print or ebook

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by a high school student Sabrina Zhang. We are also joined by Jack Prater, one of Sabrina's teachers at Polytechnic School in Pasadena, California. They recently collaborated as a mentor/mentee team in The Earth Prize competition, a $200k global competition for students to create solutions to climate-related challenges.  Links:  Interview with Jack Agrivision The Earth Prize Polytechnic Institute Sabrina's Blog

In this episode, Ian speaks with Tom Vander Ark. Tom is the CEO of Getting Smart, where he advises schools and foundations on how to accelerate innovations in learning that empower all people, not just a particular group. Tom is also the author of numerous books, including “Getting Smart: How Digital Learning is Changing the World”, and “The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education." Previously, Tom served as Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and prior to that, he was a public school superintendent in Washington State. We discussed real-world learning and his “New Pathways” campaign which is a road map for American schools with a very ambitious vision for the future of education.  Want more higher ed perspectives? Subscribe to our weekly Higher Education News Brief for the latest insights. Or if you'd like to be a guest on the show, please visit UNINCORPORATED.com.

Are you interested in attending one of the field's largest gatherings of K-12 education innovators? The Aurora Institute Symposium 2023 promises community, lessons about education innovation from the field, and the latest research and policy to support education transformation. Find out more here.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Cyane Dandridge, founder of Strategic Energy Initiatives (SEI), an environmental nonprofit that builds leaders to drive sustainability solutions. One of those solutions is a high school model, School for Environmental Leadership  (SEL). The flagship is MarinSEL, a “school within a school” located within Terra Linda High School in the San Rafael City Schools district and we're excited to be also joined  Karen Madden, a teacher leader from MarinSEL.  Links: 2021 Impact Report SEI School for Environmental Leadership (SEL)  High School Sustainability Curriculum Page Cyane Dandridge Karen Madden

Tom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations and learning organizations on the path forward.

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is supported by the JFF Horizons Summit. Find out more at horizons.jff.org.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Michelle Blanchet, Founder & Director of the Educator's Lab and author of Preventing Polarization: 50 Strategies for Teaching Kids About Empathy, Politics, and Civic Responsibility  co-authored by Brian Deters. Michelle is also serving as a Senior Fellow for our New Pathways campaign as she helps us to highlight and share stories around keeping sustainability and citizenship at the core of pathways.  Links: Educator's Lab Michelle Blanchet Civics Through Play The Startup Teacher Playbook  Preventing Polarization Amazon Basehor-Linwood Student designed park  Lies My Teacher Told Me UnTextbooked Podcast

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Scott McLeod, a Professor of Leadership for Educational Organizations at University of Colorado Denver and author of numerous books, most recently Leadership for Deeper Learning. Scott is also a Senior Fellow at Getting Smart.  Links: Different Schools for a Different World Leadership for Deeper Learning Scott McLeod Twitter Scott McLeod Fellow Page LeaderTalk Redesigning for Deeper Learning  Dr. Don Haddad and Dr. Jackie Kapushion on St. Vrain Schools and Innovation Centers New Village Girls Academy Butler Tech CAPS Network

Is there a chance that in trying to innovate we risk inflating systems in a way that 'misses the mark'? How can we approach innovative and big ideas in a way that is mission focussed?This conversation also features a careful speculations on the impact of OpenAI's ChatGPT and how learning innovators imagine and prepare for it's potential implications.https://www.gettingsmart.com/Transcript available at https://www.thelearingfuture.com.In this sixth episode of Education Transformed, Louka speaks with Tom Vander Ark, a strong professional advocate for innovation in education but also a deep thinker about the potential consequences or failures of new systems. Tom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations and learning organizations on the path forward. A prolific writer and speaker, Tom is author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together, The Power of Place and Difference Making at the Heart of Learning. and has published thousands of articles and papers. He writes regularly on GettingSmart.com, Forbes, and LinkedIn.Previously he served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Tom served as a public school superintendent in Washington State and has extensive private sector experience. He serves on the board of Education Board Partners, 4.0 Schools, Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, Mastery Transcript Consortium and eduInnovation. He is also an advisor to numerous schools and startups.Check out this season's partner publication: https://www.diplomaticourier.com/issue/transformed-the-case-for-education-transformation

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we're sharing a recent conversation between Tom Vander Ark and Louka Parry. Together they discuss the mission of school, credentials and records, generative AI, shifting towards regenerative models of learning and much more.  Louka Parry is CEO of The Learning Future, a company committed to transforming learning structures, systems and societies so that we better empower individuals to develop the key human capabilities that matter most now and into the future. Louka is also the host of The Learning Future Podcast, which we recommend you check out for more conversations about the future of learning.  Links:  About Louka The Learning Future Podcast Salzburg Global Seminar Thomas Homer-Dixon on Commanding Hope and the Nature of Complexity Podcast Tim Klein and Belle Liang on How to Navigate Life Difference Making at the Heart of Learning Learning Creates Australia Da Vinci Schools Learning Economy Foundation Sam Seidel and Olatunde Sobomehin on the Creative Hustle and Blazing Your Own Path

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by repeat podcast guest Sam Seidel Director of K12 Strategy + Research at the Stanford d.school, the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford University and Olatunde Sobomehin, CEO of StreetCode Academy to discuss their new book Creative Hustle: Blaze Your Own Path and Make Work That Matters.  Links: Sam Seidel Twitter Sam Seidel LinkedIn Sam Seidel Bio Olatunde Sobomehin LinkedIn Olatunde - Praxis Labs Olatunde Sobomehin Twitter Creative Hustle: Blaze Your Own Path and Make Work That Matters HipHopGenius.org StreetCode Academy Sam Seidel on Design Thinking Sarah Stein Greenberg Podcast Design for Belonging by Dr. Susie Wise New Pathways Rep Mag High School for the Recording Arts Big Picture Learning

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Barbara “Bobbi” Kurshan and Kathy Hurley the co-authors of the new book InnovateHERs: Why Purpose Driven Entrepreneurial Women Rise to the Top. Dr. Barbara “Bobbi” Kurshan, is the President of Educorp Consultants Corporation and Senior Innovation Advisor, the Graduate School of Education, Education Entrepreneurship, University of Pennsylvania, and a former education industry entrepreneur.  Kathy Hurley is a former senior executive for numerous educational publishing and technology companies, including IBM and Pearson. After retiring from Pearson, she was selected as a Fellow of the Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI) at Harvard University and co-founded a global nonprofit organization, Girls Thinking Global. Links: Amazon Link Barbara Kurshan LinkedIn Kathy Hurley LinkedIn Innovatehers resources EMP Whitepaper Ken Kay on Redefining Student Success Innovation Ecosystem  Newsletter Subscription 

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is a part of our New Pathways campaign. In partnership with American Student Assistance® (ASA), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Stand Together and the Walton Foundation, the New Pathways campaign will question education's status quo and propose new methods of giving students a chance to experience success in what's next.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr Paul LeBlanc, president of Southern New Hampshire University and author of the books Students First: Equity, Access, and Opportunity in Higher Education and, most recently, Broken: How Our Social Systems are Failing Us and How We Can Fix Them  Listen in while Tom and Paul talk about the power of stories, the difference between belonging and mattering and how keeping relationships at the center of human systems is the only way to find success.  Links: Students First (Amazon Link) Broken (Amazon Link) Paul LeBlanc Bio Paul LeBlanc and Connie Yowell Harvard Education Press New Pathways

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is a part of our New Pathways campaign. In partnership with American Student Assistance® (ASA), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Stand Together and the Walton Foundation, the New Pathways campaign will question education's status quo and propose new methods of giving students a chance to experience success in what's next.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Mike Magee, the president of Minerva University. Previously, Mike spent time largely in edpolicy at Rhode Island School of Design, Rhode Island Mayoral Academies, and Chiefs for Change. Minerva University is a 10 year old independent, non-profit, accredited institution of higher education. It was formed in partnership with a venture-backed startup called the Minerva Project and incubated at Keck Graduate Institute. Links: Mike Magee About Mike Magee Twitter Minerva University Minerva Project Ben Nelson Forum Platform Minerva University Sustainability Minor Seabound Carbon Capture Master of Science in Decision Analysis Some of Mike's Favorite Poems: Emily Dickinson - I dwell in Possibility Gwendolyn Brooks - Boy Breaking Glass 

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Chris McNutt and Nick Covington, two leaders of the Human Restoration Project, an initiative aimed at transforming school systems towards human-centered policies that promote well-being and powerful learning. Links:  Chris McNutt Nick Covington Human Restoration Project Podcast 100 Days of Conversation Podcast Human Restoration Project Conference Human Restoration Project PD  UN Sustainable Development Goals Difference Making | Getting Smart 

This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is a part of our New Pathways campaign. In partnership with American Student Assistance® (ASA), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Stand Together and the Walton Foundation, the New Pathways campaign will question education's status quo and propose new methods of giving students a chance to experience success in what's next.  On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Don Haddad, the Superintendent at St. Vrain Valley Schools and Dr. Jackie Kapushion, the Deputy Superintendent.  Together, they discuss the various pathways initiatives of St. Vrain Valley Schools, the role of a superintendent and how to scale innovation.  Links: Don Haddad LinkedIn St. Vrain Valley Schools Jackie Kapushion Twitter Jackie Kapushion LinkedIn P-Teach P-Tech Career Elevation and Technology Center Bill Ritter Getting Smart Podcast Next-Gen Career Prep at St. Vrain Innovation Center

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by a group of guests to discuss the promise of science fairs and why science deep dives should be part of every learner's experience.  In 2020 we spoke with Maya Ajmera, CEO of the Society for Science and host of the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and Regeneron Science Talent Search. Our three guests for this podcast are: Priscilla Lumbreras is a science teacher in Granbury ISD and an alumni of the Society's Advocate Program as well as a STEM Research Grantee. Anika Puri is a grad of Horace Greeley High School in Chappaqua, New York and a freshman at MIT. She is also the recent winner of the Peggy Scripps Award for Science Communication at Regeneron ISEF. Laalitya Acharya is a Regeneron Science Talent Search and ISEF alumni, a student at Columbia and an intern at Regeneron. Links: Regeneron Science Talent Search Horace Greeley High School The Nereid Project MozAIrt Maya Ajmera Society for Science Granbury ISD