Episodes
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In today’s episode, we'll explore strategies and tech tools for the drafting stage of the writing process.
Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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Missing episodes?
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What does it mean to truly infuse AI into classroom practice—not just as a tool, but as a partner in learning? In this episode, ed tech expert Holly Clark joins the Unpacking Education team to unpack the evolving role of AI in education. With over 25 years of experience and a deep commitment to student-centered learning, Holly shares how generative AI can help educators personalize instruction, support neurodivergent learners, and reclaim valuable time. “We can’t say, ‘I’m just not AI literate,’” Holly explains. “That’s not fair to ourselves or our learners.” Tune in to hear how AI can elevate creativity, curiosity, and connection in every classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In this episode of Unpacking Education, we speak with Tracie McMurray, an educator with 20 years of experience whose participation in the AVID Certified Educator program reignited her passion for teaching. From rethinking the role of student data to revamping classroom routines, Tracie shares how strategic lesson design transformed her instruction and helped her reconnect with the purpose that brought her to education in the first place. Along the way, she found a supportive network of like-minded educators and a renewed sense of belonging that reaffirmed her love for teaching. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In this episode of Unpacking Education, we’re joined by author, educator, and inquiry consultant Trevor MacKenzie to explore the powerful role of curiosity in learning. Trevor shares how authentic inquiry can transform disengaged classrooms into thriving learning communities and how the simple act of sparking student curiosity leads to deeper thinking, better questions, and meaningful engagement. Whether you're new to inquiry-based learning or ready to deepen your practice, this conversation offers actionable strategies, like designing effective provocations, building question competence, and scaffolding student agency. Tune in to reimagine what it means to center curiosity in the classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with high school English teacher and AVID Site Coordinator Kera Diller to explore AVID's WICOR methodology, which incorporates Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading. Kera shares how WICOR transformed her instructional planning by providing a flexible methodology rather than a rigid formula. With vivid metaphors and practical insights, she illustrates how WICOR serves as a foundation for rigorous instruction that’s adaptable across grade levels and content areas. Whether you're a seasoned AVID educator or new to the methodology, this episode is full of relatable stories, actionable strategies, and a fresh perspective on what it means to design meaningful learning experiences for all students. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In this episode of Unpacking Education, we welcome back Thomas Murray to dive into the evolving landscape of Future Ready Schools. Tom shares insights on creating learning environments that truly prepare students for an unpredictable future, focusing on effectiveness, engagement, and innovation. From strategic frameworks to workforce readiness, he challenges educators to think beyond the basics and ensure that every student has the tools to live life on their own terms. Tune in for free resources from All4Ed, actionable ideas, and a fresh perspective on what it means to be future ready in 2025 and beyond. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In today’s episode, we'll explore tech-enriched strategies to facilitate writing to learn. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In this episode, Tyler Rablin, author of Hacking Student Motivation, joins us to examine the role that assessment plays in student motivation. He emphasizes the importance of rethinking traditional grading and assessment practices to better foster student success. He shares his experience with a brilliant but struggling student, Tiff, who inspired him to focus on growth rather than averaging scores. Rablin advocates for unpacking standards, using learning progressions, and providing meaningful feedback to help students see their progress. He also discusses the role of AI in enhancing feedback while maintaining personal connections with students. Practical steps are shared to help educators implement these strategies. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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Explore Snorkl, an AI feedback tool.
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In this episode, Brittney Smith from the News Literacy Project discusses the importance of news and information literacy in today's digital age. She emphasizes the need for students to critically evaluate the credibility of information and understand the role of journalism in the information sharing process. Brittney highlights strategies like pausing before sharing, lateral reading, and training social media algorithms to filter credible content. She also discusses the differences between misinformation and disinformation, as well as the impact of artificial intelligence on news literacy. The News Literacy Project offers various free resources, including their Checkology interactive lessons, SIFT educator publication, and RumorGuard platform, to help educators effectively teach these skills. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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Explore Canva Whiteboard, a robust digital canvas and workspace.
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In this episode, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses her new book, Elevating Educational Design with AI, co-authored with Dr. Katie Novak. Tucker emphasizes the importance of using AI as a design thought partner rather than a replacement for human teaching. She outlines a framework for integrating AI into lesson planning, focusing on backward design, universal design, and personalized learning. Tucker highlights the benefits of AI in creating flexible pathways, designing rubrics, and fostering resilience in students. She stresses the need for educators to craft effective AI prompts, evaluate AI-generated content, and maintain human connection in the classroom. Tucker also recommends tools like School AI and NotebookLM for enhancing educational design. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In this episode, Rena Clark, an Instructional Technology Facilitator and one of our Unpacking Education podcast cohosts, shares insights from the work that she's currently engaged in with language acquisition and translation tools. She discusses how the overreliance on translation tools in education can inadvertently hinder language acquisition and literacy. While she says that there's a time and place for translation tools in schools, it’s important to recognize that these tools can also increase cognitive load and communicate translations inaccurately. Rena emphasizes the importance of intentional, small-dose use of translation tools and advocates for good teaching practices, such as visual aids, simplified language, and peer support. She suggests empowering students to use translation tools responsibly and leveraging AI for better translations. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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In today’s episode, we'll explore Corgi, a free, interactive graphic organizer tool from CAST designed for teachers and students. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.
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