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In recent years, the emphasis on STEM education has undoubtedly equipped students with valuable skills for the future. But has this focus come at the expense of other critical subjects, like civics?
In today’s "Bright Idea" segment, we discuss the current state of civics education in the U.S. with journalist, speaker, and author Holly Korby. Korby, who wrote Building Better Citizens, shares her candid assessment of how well the nation prepares young people to understand their role in democracy, grading the U.S. a C-.
Korby points to the writings of Horace Mann, who, in the 1800s, championed public education with a core mission: to produce informed citizens who grasp how government functions. Yet, as Korby highlights, we need to catch up to this fundamental goal today.
While states like Massachusetts and Illinois stand out for their robust civics programs, Korby describes the overall picture as a "patchwork system" that varies widely in quality across the country.
Despite the challenges, Korby offers hope, outlining actionable steps educators can take to better equip students with the knowledge they need to engage in civic life. We explore these solutions further in Episode 272 of Class Dismissed.
Tune in to the Class Dismissed podcast on your favorite app or iTunes to hear Korby’s insights.
Other Show Notes
Cash-Starved Districts Are Turning to Four-Day School Weeks. Will That Harm Students?
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Learning math can be challenging for people who prefer the liberal arts. This is due to the differences in cognitive processes and subject matter. While liberal arts subjects like literature and history often focus on narrative, interpretation, and subjective analysis, math relies on abstract reasoning, logic, and problem-solving, which can feel rigid and detached from personal expression.
The linear and structured nature of math can seem intimidating compared to the open-ended exploration found in the humanities.
Our guest in Episode 271 of Class Dismissed is Ben Orlin. Orlin, the author of the hit book "Math with Bad Drawings" and his latest book, "Math for English Majors," Has taken on the mission to bridge the gap between liberal arts thinkers and mathematical concepts.
Orlin says many of his readers asked if his teachings in class were similar to those in his early books, and the answer was mostly no.
"Math takes practice, and there is the pencil and paper math that needs to happen. But there's so many ways that can go wrong, and I've seen so many students that have had such frustrating experiences," says Orlin. "I was sort of drawn to that. This is the thing that's haunting people...so I wanted to write a book that kind of went right at that."
Orlin's new writings, which frame math as a language, are a testament to this mission.
Listen to Episode 271 on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast for our full interview with Orlin.
Other show notes
U.S. High School Vaping Hits 10-Year Low After Crackdown, CDC Says
What you should know about Nicotine Pouches -
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Exercising Your Critical Thinking Skills
In today's world, where digital assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google can provide instant answers to nearly any question, the ability to think critically is more important than ever. Teaching students how to think, not just what to think, has become essential to education.
In Episode 270 of our podcast, we dive deeper into this topic with Dr. Emily Fyfe, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Indiana University. Dr. Fyfe and her colleagues have recently published groundbreaking research titled, "A Scalable, Versatile Approach for Improving Critical Thinking Skills," which offers fresh insights into how we can enhance our critical thinking abilities.
The Study: A Closer Look
Dr. Fyfe explains that this research was inspired by a troubling observation: Many people, regardless of their education level, could be more proficient in critical thinking. "Just because you are educated, or have attended a class or even graduated from college, doesn't necessarily mean you're a better critical thinker," says Fyfe. "That's a problem we wanted to address."
In their study, all participants began with a pre-test and received basic training on critical thinking principles. Then, they were divided into three groups:
Critical Thinking Practice Group: This group engaged in targeted exercises designed to strengthen critical thinking skills.
Non-Critical Thinking Practice Group: Participants in this group underwent exercises unrelated to critical thinking.
Control Group: This group received no additional practice after the initial training.
Following the exercises, all participants took a post-test. The results showed that those who participated in the critical thinking practice significantly improved from their pre-test scores. In contrast, the other groups showed minimal gains.
Why It Matters
These findings underscore the importance of actively practicing critical thinking rather than assuming it develops passively through general education. To hear more about Dr. Fyfe's research and why it's crucial to exercise our critical thinking muscles, tune in to Episode 270 of the Class Dismissed podcast. You can find it on your favorite podcast app or iTunes.
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Food is a fundamental part of our lives, making it a perfect subject for engaging students in not just health class but also science class. By integrating food nutrition and food science into K-12 science classrooms, educators can offer students hands-on, practical lessons that connect directly to their daily lives.
Our guest in episode 269 of Class Dismissed is Dr. Julia Olayanju, a distinguished expert who holds a PhD from Rutgers University and a Master of Public Health from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She is the founder of FoodNiche Inc. and FoodNiche-ED, which are platforms dedicated to advancing food and health education through cutting-edge technology.
Listen to Episode 269 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear more from Dr. Olanyanju.
Here are a few ways to make this food science integration effective and enjoyable.
1. Food-Based Experiments
Food offers countless opportunities for experiments that illustrate core scientific principles. For instance, students can explore chemical reactions by baking bread or making yogurt and observing how ingredients like yeast or bacteria interact. Measuring the acidity of different foods can introduce concepts of pH and acids and bases. These activities teach scientific concepts and give students a tangible outcome they can taste and enjoy.
2. Nutrition Education
Incorporating lessons on nutrition into the science curriculum helps students understand the impact of food on their health. Teachers can discuss the macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) in various foods, explaining how they fuel the body. Activities like analyzing food labels or planning balanced meals can make these concepts more relatable and encourage healthier eating habits.
3. Farm-to-Table Lessons
Connecting the classroom to the broader food system can be a powerful way to teach about sustainability, biology, and agriculture. Lessons can include visits to local farms, growing a school garden, or even simple discussions about where food comes from. These experiences help students understand the science behind food production, the importance of sustainable practices, and the impact of agriculture on the environment.
4. Food Safety and Preservation
Teaching students about food safety and preservation techniques, such as canning, freezing, or drying, can integrate microbiology and chemistry into the classroom. Understanding how bacteria grow and how different preservation methods inhibit this growth provides a practical application of these scientific principles.
5. Cultural and Historical Contexts
Food is deeply tied to culture and history, offering a unique way to integrate social studies with science. Students can explore how different cultures use various foods and cooking methods and how these have evolved over time. Discussions can also include the role of food in historical events, such as the spice trade or the development of agriculture, linking science with broader societal changes.
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The Invisible Barrier
Chronic absenteeism in K-12 education is an invisible barrier, quietly eroding the future potential of countless students one missed day at a time.
In Episode 268 of Class Dismissed, we explore ideas for districts to tackle chronic absenteeism.
The DL Link
For instance, several states have implemented measures linking school attendance to the ability to obtain a driver's license to combat chronic absenteeism. In states like California, Florida, and Tennessee, students under a certain age must meet specific attendance requirements to receive or maintain their driver's licenses. The logic behind these policies is that the incentive of a driver's license can motivate students to attend school regularly.
SchoolStatus Attend
We also talked with Dr. Kara Stern. Stern currently serves as the Director of Education and Engagement at SchoolStatus.SchoolStatus offers a suite of products, but one, in particular, has some proven ways to approve attendance.
SchoolStatus Attend is a data-driven attendance management solution that helps educators automate attendance interventions and provide positive reinforcement to improve daily attendance. It reduces administrative workload by automating outreach through letters, postcards, and digital messages.
Listen to Episode 268 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear our full episode dedicated to chronic absenteeism and learn more about SchoolStatus Attend.
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Envision a classroom where transitions between activities are seamless, students are actively engaged, and their cognitive and social-emotional development is consistently nurtured. This vision becomes a reality with the integration of sound-making activities. These activities facilitate smoother transitions and play a crucial role in enhancing executive functioning skills, promoting active listening, and encouraging mindfulness. Their impact in diverse classrooms, supporting children with varying language abilities and behavioral needs, is significant.
In Episode 267 of Class Dismissed, we delve into this transformative teaching method with Hayes Greenfield—an accomplished saxophonist, composer, and educator based in New York City. Greenfield is also the founder of CreativeSoundPlay.com.
His platform offers a play-based learning system for early childhood educators, focusing on sound-making activities to enrich classroom dynamics. Through a comprehensive guide and engaging workshops, Creative Sound Play transforms routine transitions into educational experiences that foster mindfulness, active listening, and cognitive growth.
Listen to Episode 267 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear how Greenfield uses sound as a tool in the classroom.
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Summer break is a chance to keep your school community connected and thriving. By continuing communication, you'll:
Empower students and families for a smooth transition back to school.
Fuel excitement for the upcoming year with engaging updates.
Solidify your school's role as a vital center for the community.
In Episode 266 of the Class Dismissed Podcast, we speak with Dr. Kara Stern. Stern currently serves as the Director of Education and Engagement at SchoolStatus.
In the episode, Stern shared SchoolStatus' To-Do List for summer communications.
Engage Families
Frequent communication aimed at families is essential for reducing absenteeism, minimizing dropouts, and creating an environment conducive to learning. Transparency and consistent outreach help build trust, manage expectations, and reinforce your school's dedication to every student's growth.
Share end-of-year accomplishments, highlights, and important dates (e.g., graduation, testing schedules)
Provide updates on facility changes, new programs, or initiatives planned for the upcoming school year
Offer contact information for administrators, counselors, and teachers for families who need support during the summer
Promote the benefits of regular school attendance and the importance of showing up on Day 1
Share summer reading lists, educational resources, or local community event recommendations
Empower Faculty & Staff
Maintaining open lines of communication with teachers and personnel is key to talent retention, professional development, and cultivating a supportive workplace culture. Leverage summer downtime to provide growth opportunities, share inspirational content, and equip your team with the tools for a successful year ahead.
To-Do List:
Celebrate staff achievements, milestones, and recognition from the previous school year
Communicate staffing changes, new hires, or role transitions for the upcoming year
Provide professional development opportunities, resources, or training during the summer break
Share inspiration, quotes, or messages to keep staff engaged and motivated
Offer updates on facility changes, new technology implementations, or operational procedures
Follow Communication Best Practices
Implementing an all-encompassing summer engagement strategy requires strategic planning, engaging content, and leveraging the right tech tools. Follow these guidelines to ensure your school or district remains top-of-mind, forges meaningful connections, and lays the groundwork for an impactful academic year.
To-Do List:
Maintain a consistent communication cadence (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly)
Use photos, memes, or GIFs to make communications more engaging and fun
Ensure communications are translatable and accessible in multiple languages
Include polls and surveys to invite your readers' feedback and participation
Leverage analytics to identify disengaged audiences and follow up with personalized outreach
Promote a sense of community, trust, and connection throughout the summer months
Set the tone and establish branding guidelines for district/school-wide communications
Introduce key personnel (e.g., principals, counselors, teachers) before the school year begins
Provide a "welcome back" message as the start of the school year approaches to build excitement
Listen to Episode 266 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear more ideas about school communications and SchoolStatus.
SchoolStatus is used by school districts worldwide. Its integrated, data-driven tools simplify communication and engagement among families, educators, and administrators.
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Integrating reading instruction throughout the school day presents several challenges for teachers:
Time Constraints: With tight schedules and a packed curriculum, finding extra time for reading instruction in non-language arts subjects can be difficult.
Curriculum Demands: Subjects like math, science, and social studies already have extensive curricula. Incorporating reading without sacrificing essential content can be a struggle.
Lack of Training: Not all teachers are trained in effective reading strategies, especially those specializing in other subjects. This can make it challenging to integrate reading into their teaching.
However, embedding reading instruction throughout the day can significantly enhance students' reading proficiency, engagement, and overall academic success. It creates a rich literacy environment where reading becomes an essential and enjoyable part of everyday learning.
Our guest on Episode 265 of Class Dismissed, Jen Serravallo, is an expert on this topic. Her new book, "Teaching Reading Across the Day," focuses on integrating reading instruction into various parts of the school day. Known for her practical and effective strategies, Serravallo provides educators with tools and techniques to embed reading skills and practices during designated reading times and across different subjects and activities.
Serravallo's latest book is designed to help teachers foster a love for reading in their students.
Listen to Episode 265 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear our entire conversation and some tips from Serravallo.
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Many middle and high school teachers avoid discussing controversial topics in class due to their fear of controversy. They may worry about offending students or parents with different viewpoints. However, productive discussions on complex issues are essential to learning. It requires skill, and teachers may need more confidence in navigating disagreements. However, these discussions can be valuable learning experiences with careful planning and clear guidelines.
In episode 264 of Class Dismissed, we interviewed two experts: Dr. Paula McAvoy, an Associate Professor of Social Studies Education at NC State College of Education, and Dr. Greg McAvoy, a professor and department head of political science. The pair offered three structured approaches to help middle and high school students debate current controversies.
Structured Academic Controversy (SAC) is a method that sets up opposing views within a framework that encourages collaboration. By assigning students to research and advocate for different sides of an issue, SAC fosters an environment where students must actively engage with opposing perspectives, aiming to reach a consensus through mutual understanding.
Close-up deliberations, in contrast, focus on exploring a range of policy options related to a given issue. Students are presented with various viewpoints and policy proposals, and through group discussions, they strive to develop a policy recommendation that accommodates diverse opinions within the group. This approach, with its real-world applicability, encourages students to consider the complexity of issues and grapple with the trade-offs involved in decision-making.
Team Debate is a powerful platform for students to articulate and defend their positions on a contentious issue. By organizing students into opposing teams and requiring each participant to contribute to the debate, this format promotes active participation and fosters critical thinking. The competitive element adds a layer of motivation for students to prepare compelling arguments while also fostering resilience in the face of opposing viewpoints.
Through surveys and interviews, the researchers found that these structured formats effectively addressed common concerns about classroom discussions on controversial topics. The structured nature of the activities, coupled with explicit norms promoting respect and civility, helped mitigate the risk of discussions devolving into heated arguments. Moreover, these formats democratized the discourse by ensuring that all students were actively involved, regardless of their prior interest or political expertise.
These findings suggest that structured approaches to debating public policy issues can be valuable tools for educators seeking to promote critical thinking, civic engagement, and respectful dialogue among secondary students. Despite the challenges posed by today's polarized political climate, these methods offer a hopeful path forward for fostering informed and constructive civic discourse in classrooms.
Listen to Episode 264 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear our entire conversation with Paula and Greg McAvoy.
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Embarking on the teaching journey is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but it can also be daunting, especially during that crucial first year in the classroom. New teachers face many challenges, from lesson planning to classroom management, engaging students, and balancing work-life demands. However, with the right mindset and strategies, surviving and thriving through that inaugural year is entirely within reach.
In Episode 263 of the Class Dismissed Podcast, we talk with Helena Hains—the creator of The Present Teacher website and resources. Hains offers teachers strategies to leave work on time and avoid working extra on the weekends.
One of the time management hacks she shares with us is "batching." Batching is a time management technique where you group similar tasks and tackle them all at once rather than addressing them individually throughout the day. It's like consolidating your efforts into focused blocks of time.
Listen to Episode 263 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to hear our entire conversation with Hains.
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As the upcoming Presidential Election draws near, the importance of media literacy in education has never been more evident. In today's digital age, where information is readily accessible and often overwhelming, teaching students how to critically analyze and navigate media sources is essential for fostering informed citizenship and safeguarding democratic processes.
Media literacy encompasses a range of skills, including the ability to evaluate the credibility of sources, recognize bias, understand different forms of media, and interpret messages accurately. In the election context, these skills are invaluable for helping students sift through the barrage of news, social media posts, and campaign advertisements to distinguish fact from fiction and make informed decisions.
So, how can teachers effectively navigate the upcoming Presidential Election with their students?
First and foremost, it's essential to create a safe and open environment where students feel comfortable discussing political issues. Encourage respectful dialogue and emphasize the importance of listening to diverse perspectives. By fostering critical thinking and respectful debate, teachers can empower students to engage thoughtfully with political content and form their opinions based on evidence and reasoned analysis.
Additionally, integrating media literacy into the curriculum is crucial. Teach students to critically evaluate sources by examining authorship, bias, accuracy, and relevance. Provide them with tools and strategies for fact-checking information and verifying sources. Encourage students to question the motives behind media messages and consider the potential impact of misinformation on public opinion.
Furthermore, leverage current events, such as the presidential election, as teachable moments. Analyze campaign advertisements, speeches, and debates together as a class. Encourage students to deconstruct the language, imagery, and persuasive techniques used by candidates to sway voters. Explore how different media outlets frame and interpret political events, highlighting the importance of seeking out multiple perspectives.
In Episode 262 of Class Dismissed, we speak with Andrea De La Cerda, the Founder and CEO of Kandula. Kandula is a strategic communications company that helps nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and educational institutions. To hear our entire conversation with De La Cerda, listen to Episode 262 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast.
Show Links
Why School Absences Have ‘Exploded’ Almost Everywhere
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In the fast-paced world we inhabit today, intelligence is no longer confined to the realm of IQ scores and academic prowess. An equally important aspect of personal development is emotional intelligence (EI). This term, now ubiquitous in discussions about personal growth and success, was traced back to a seminal 1990 article by Salovey and Mayer, which argued that emotions could be harnessed to enrich one's life. However, Daniel Goleman truly popularized the concept in his groundbreaking book, "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ," published in 1995.
Contrary to traditional beliefs that emotions reside solely in the unconscious mind, Goleman emphasized that emotions are manageable and play a pivotal role in human behavior and decision-making. This paradigm shift led to a widespread recognition of the significance of emotional intelligence, prompting parents to prioritize fostering it in their children. Consequently, the realm of education witnessed the emergence of social and emotional learning (SEL) programs, underscoring the importance of teaching emotional intelligence in classrooms.
Emotional intelligence encompasses a range of skills, including recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing, and regulating emotions.
In Episode 261 of Class Dismissed, we discuss the origins of Emotional Intelligence and highlight an article by Marc Brackett, from Yale University's Center for Emotional Intelligence. Brackett advocates for educators to become adept at these skills themselves, serving as role models for young learners.
Brackett and his colleagues developed the RULER acronym to unpack emotional intelligence: Recognizing emotions, Understanding their causes and consequences, Labeling emotions, Expressing emotions appropriately, and Regulating emotions effectively.
Listen to episode 261 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcast to learn more about EI and Brackett's RULER acronym.
Show Links
Giving Educators Permission to Feel
How We Feel
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In an intriguing twist of technological irony, the Peninsula School District in Washington State has embarked on a pioneering journey by utilizing Generative AI (Gen AI) to develop comprehensive guidelines for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings. This innovative approach underscores the district's commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technologies to shape the future of teaching and learning.
In an interview with Education Week, Kris Hagel, the executive director for digital learning for the Peninsula district, said he highlighted the US Department of Education's 75-page documents with everything he thought was necessary. He then took all of those highlights and another couple of documents that were out at the time around generative AI in education, and he dumped them all into ChatGPT and said, "Give me a rough draft of a principles and beliefs document."
After that, he took four pieces of his writing and had ChatGPT analyze them and rewrite them in his voice and tone.
That became the first draft.
By leveraging sophisticated AI tools, the district has meticulously crafted policies that aim to ensure ethical AI usage within classrooms. Despite the apparent paradox of using AI to govern AI, the Peninsula School District's embrace of Gen AI represents a forward-thinking stance in navigating the complex intersection of technology and education.
The Peninsula School District encourages other educators to read and use their guidelines as needed.
The Peninsula School District's utilization of Gen AI in formulating its guidelines represents a paradigm shift in educational policy-making, signaling a departure from traditional methodologies toward a more tech-savvy and forward-looking approach. As the district navigates the ever-evolving landscape of AI-integrated education, it sets a precedent for other educational institutions to embrace innovation while remaining steadfast in their commitment to ethical practice and student well-being.
To learn more, listen to episode 260 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or Apple Podcasts.
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On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse is anticipated to be visible from parts of North America, including Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The path of totality, where the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon, will pass through several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Vermont, and Maine.
Few occurrences in the vast canvas of celestial phenomena captivate human imagination as profoundly as a total solar eclipse. It's not merely a play of shadows across the sky; it's a cosmic ballet that unites millions under a single celestial spectacle. As we anticipate the upcoming total solar eclipse in 2024, it's essential to recognize why this event transcends mere astronomy—it's an experience that enriches our souls and deepens our connection to the universe.
Firstly, witnessing a total solar eclipse is a humbling reminder of our place in the cosmos. In an age where technology often disconnects us from nature, the eclipse beckons us to look up and behold the grandeur of the universe. The moment when the moon entirely obscures the sun, plunging the world into an eerie twilight, evokes a primal sense of wonder that transcends language and culture.
Secondly, total solar eclipses offer a unique scientific discovery and education opportunity. These events provide researchers with invaluable opportunities to study the sun's corona, revealing insights into solar physics and contributing to our understanding of the universe. Witnessing a total solar eclipse firsthand for students and enthusiasts alike can ignite a lifelong passion for science and exploration.
In Episode 259 of the Class Dismissed podcast, we chat with astronomer and eclipse chaser, Dr. Glenn Schneider. Schneider has viewed more than 30 total solar eclipses.
"There really is no such thing as an almost eclipse," says Schneider. "A partial solar eclipse, even if it's 99.9% covered, is a completely different phenomenon from what you would see if you're in that zone of totality."
Schneider urges those who have an opportunity to see the eclipse in totality to take it.
"So if you're living 5 miles away and you say, well, I'll see a 99.9% eclipse, it's almost the same thing. It isn't!"
To learn more about total solar eclipses and hear how Schneider believes they can trigger student interest in science, listen to episode 259 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or on Apple Podcasts.
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Transform Your Science Class
In the ever-evolving education landscape, we must reconsider what we prioritize in our science classrooms. Melanie Trecek-King, an advocate for progressive teaching methods and the founder of thinkingispower.com, offers invaluable insights into reshaping science education for the betterment of students and society.
At the heart of Trecek-King's philosophy is the belief that critical thinking is paramount in science education. Science isn't just about memorizing facts and formulas; it's about cultivating a mindset that questions, explores, and seeks understanding. By prioritizing critical thinking skills, students not only grasp scientific concepts but also learn to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and make informed decisions—a skill set indispensable in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
In episode 258 of Class Dismissed, Trecek-King explains how she emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity and creativity in science classrooms. After all, science isn't a rigid set of rules but a dynamic process of inquiry and discovery.
To hear Trecek-King in-depth perspective, listen to Episode 258 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or on Apple Podcasts.
Other Show Notes
A Desk Layout Alternative to Rows and Circles
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Over two decades, Elena Aguilar, distinguished as the founder and President of Bright Morning, has ardently devoted herself to education, assuming roles as both a teacher and instructional coach. Throughout this extensive period, she has witnessed a prevalent and pervasive sentiment that resonates deeply within the teaching community—the overwhelming burden accompanying the noble pursuit of shaping young minds.
In an earnest endeavor to address this shared challenge, Aguilar has contributed to an ongoing series with the publication titled "How to Coach the Overwhelmed Teacher." Drawing on her wealth of experience, she extends a helping hand to her fellow educators. She presents a comprehensive framework encapsulated in five invaluable tips for effectively assisting colleagues or employees in navigating overwhelming responsibilities.
1. Describe It
2. Recall Previous Experiences
3. Identify a Next Step
4. Listen
5. Plan for Action
Elena Aguilar's guide transcends the conventional approach to coaching by delving into the emotional and practical intricacies of navigating overwhelming experiences. By intertwining empathy, reflection, and strategic planning, her framework not only equips educators to overcome immediate challenges but also fosters a resilient and empowered mindset for the continuous journey of teaching and learning.
To hear Aguilar go in-depth on her five tips, listen to Episode 257 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or iTunes.
Other Show Notes
Should Schools Ban Cellphones?
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In the ever-evolving landscape of education, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping how we learn and teach. One groundbreaking development that significantly impacted education in 2022 - 2023 was generative AI applications like ChatGPT. Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT is a language model that has revolutionized the learning experience, offering new possibilities for both educators and students.
As we look back on which stories received the most attention on the Class Dismissed Podcast, it's clear that readers and listeners desire to learn precisely how generative AI will impact the world of K-12 education.
In fact, the most clicked-on and listened-to episode of Class Dismissed in 2023 was Episode 237, "Are there tools that can determine if a student is using ChatGPT"
As we reflect on the impact of generative AI on education in 2023, it's clear that this innovative technology has brought about positive changes in the learning landscape. From personalized learning experiences to enhanced collaboration and accessibility, generative AI has demonstrated its potential to transform education and empower learners of all backgrounds. But generative AI also raises many unanswered questions for students and educators alike.
To hear how we reflected on our episodes from 2023, listen to Episode 256 of the Class Dismissed Podcast on your favorite podcast app or iTunes.
Other Show Notes
Top 10 Best AI Tools for Education in 2023
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Leading with laughter in a school setting can positively affect the learning environment and the overall well-being of fellow educators. Here are some reasons why incorporating humor and laughter into leadership can be beneficial:
1. Creates a Positive Atmosphere: Laughter is a powerful tool for creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. When leaders use humor, it helps to build a sense of camaraderie and fosters a more relaxed and welcoming environment.
2. Builds Connection and Trust: Humor can be a great connector. When leaders use laughter appropriately, it helps to build trust and rapport with staff. It humanizes the leadership figure and makes them more approachable.
3. Reduces Stress: Laughter has been shown to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. In a school setting where stress and pressure can be high, incorporating humor can be a helpful coping mechanism for educators.
4. Boosts Morale: Laughter is a natural mood lifter. Leaders who incorporate humor into their interactions can boost the morale of the entire school community.
5. Encourages Open Communication: When leaders use humor, it can break down communication barriers. Staff may feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns in an environment that values lightheartedness.
6. Strengthens Team Dynamics: Laughter is a social activity that can strengthen bonds within a group. Shared laughter helps build a sense of community and teamwork.
While leading with laughter can be highly beneficial, leaders must be mindful of the context and ensure that humor is inclusive, respectful, and appropriate for the educational setting.
In Episode 255 of Class Dismissed, we talk to Duncan Lyon and Olaf (Ole) Jorgenson. Each guides independent schools in California, and both know the importance humor can play when leading a team of educators.
“I start every faculty meeting with something humorous,” says Jorgenson. “Usually, these meetings are at the end of the day, and everybody is tired, and not everyone likes meetings. For whatever reason, starting with laughter just lightens everything.”
Lyon and Jorgenson know that most people would not argue with them; humor works in leadership.
But they wanted to dive deeper into the topic of humor and laughter. So, they surveyed other school leaders across California and asked them how humor helps build trust. They also found existing research supporting the impact humor can have.
Listen to Episode 255 of Class Dismissed on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app to learn more about their research.
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In Episode 254 of Class Dismissed, Social psychologist Camilla Griffiths from Stanford University discusses the common practice among educators of quickly correcting students' mistakes. She argues that this approach, while efficient, may deny students the opportunity to learn, grow, and demonstrate their ability to overcome challenges.
Griffiths and her colleagues studied middle- and high-school teachers' feedback, focusing on whether students were passive recipients or had agency in responding to comments. In other words, was the feedback agentic or directive?
Agentic feedback and directive feedback represent contrasting approaches to how educators provide input to students. Let's break down the key differences between the two:
Agentic Feedback: This approach empowers students to participate in learning actively. Instead of directly correcting errors or providing solutions, agentic feedback encourages students to revise their work independently. It aims to make students partners in the revision process, fostering a sense of control and freedom.
Directive Feedback: In contrast, directive feedback involves correcting mistakes, prescribing solutions, or rewriting portions of a student's work. It tends to be more explicit and prescriptive, guiding students on what needs to be corrected or changed without involving them in decision-making.
Griffiths provides examples comparing directive feedback (corrections) to agentic feedback (empowering students to improve):
Directive: Correcting spelling errors.
Agentic: Asking the student to revise an essay with multiple spelling errors.
Directive: Rewriting a student's topic and transition sentences.
Agentic: Leaving a note asking the student to rework a topic sentence.
In this episode of Class Dismissed, Griffiths explains how students responded to the different types of feedback. She concludes that agentic feedback, though not revolutionary, utilizes existing skills like giving advice, asking questions, and providing guidance. The research highlights its effectiveness in fostering self-sufficiency and instilling belief in individuals' potential to learn, applicable in educational settings and workplaces.
Listen to Episode 254 of Class Dismissed on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app to hear our entire conversation with Griffiths.
Other Show Links
Milk Carton Shortage
Jimmy Fallon Teacher Visit -
Tween girls face unique challenges in a world where social media is an integral part of daily life. The impact of the digital age on their development can be both positive and negative, making it essential to understand and address these challenges.
Our guest in Episode 253 of Class Dismissed created a program designed to teach that every girl has specific talents and gifts that make her unique and beautiful to the world.
Katie Parker is the founder of Bloomfully and co-creator of I Believe in Me. I Believe In Me is a unique program for tweens that promotes self-confidence, self-esteem, and personal growth. The program empowers pre-adolescents with essential life skills and a positive mindset to navigate the challenges of their transitional years.
I Believe In Me uses interactive workshops, mentorship, and fun activities; tweens develop a strong sense of self-worth, resilience, and belief in their abilities.
Some of the challenges teens face are listed below.
Body Image Pressures: One of the most prominent challenges tween girls face in social media is the constant pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Scrolling through filtered and carefully curated images can lead to self-esteem issues and body dissatisfaction. Reminding tweens that natural beauty comes in all shapes and sizes is crucial.
Cyberbullying: Social media provides a platform for connectivity but can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying. Tween girls may encounter hurtful comments, rumors, or exclusionary behavior online. It is crucial to teach them about responsible online behavior and reporting any incidents.
Peer Validation: The need for peer validation has always been a part of adolescence, but social media amplifies it. Tweens might feel compelled to constantly seek likes, comments, and followers to measure their self-worth. Please encourage them to focus on authentic friendships and hobbies offline.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media is a never-ending stream of content, and the fear of missing out on what their peers are doing can cause anxiety. Help tween girls balance their online and offline lives, emphasizing the importance of real experiences and in-person connections.
Time Management: Spending excessive hours on social media can lead to poor time management and affect schoolwork and other activities. Encourage tweens to set healthy limits on screen time and establish a tech-free zone during family meals and before bedtime.
Comparison Trap: Constantly comparing themselves to others on social media can harm a tween's mental health. Teach them the value of self-acceptance and the idea that everyone has their own unique journey.
As parents, guardians, or mentors, it's crucial to maintain open communication with tween girls about their online experiences. Educate them about digital literacy, responsible social media usage, and the importance of self-esteem grounded in reality. Provide a safe space for discussing their online encounters, addressing their concerns, and reinforcing their self-worth beyond the virtual world.
Listen to Episode 253 of Class Dismissed on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app to hear our entire conversation with Katie Parker from I Believe In Me. - もっと表示する
