Episódios
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Exploring continuous learning and careers in education.
In this conversation, Dave and Christine discuss various topics, including their past interactions, the importance of travel and learning, careers in technology, and the challenges of communicating complex ideas. They also touch on the significance of problem-solving skills and the need for continuous learning in today's rapidly changing world. In this part of the conversation, Christine and Dave discuss the importance of making mistakes gracefully and the excitement of discovering new interests. They also touch on the potential of synthetic biology in the fashion industry and the changing nature of the pigment industry. They share stories about challenging interview questions and the value of problem-solving skills. They emphasize the need for a mindset of continuous learning in science and the importance of exposing students to different career paths, including trades and agriculture. They also discuss the role of teachers in preparing students for future careers and the need for industry partnerships in education. The conversation explores the intersection of different engineering disciplines and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. The hosts discuss the roles of mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software engineers in various industries, including self-driving cars and sensor design. They also touch on the potential of machine learning and language models in innovation and problem-solving. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of attending conferences and the need for teachers to stay updated on the latest advancements in science and technology.Connect with Christine on X: https://twitter.com/CCgirt
ABOUT CHRISTINEChristine Girtain is the Director of Authentic Science Research at Toms River High School North and South in Toms River, New Jersey. An advocate for hands-on science education, she manages a three-year research program that encourages students to explore their scientific interests. Under her leadership, students have engaged in diverse projects, from studying the antibacterial properties of fruit seeds to bioengineering E. coli. With 28 years of teaching experience in her hometown district, she has earned several accolades, including the 2022-23 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year.
Christine's passion for teaching is rooted in a lifelong love of learning, instilled by her family and inspiring teachers. She began her teaching career through a Governor’s Teaching Scholarship, later earning a bachelor's in biology and a master's in earth science instruction. As a recognized leader in STEM education, she has forged significant partnerships and brought substantial grant funding to enhance educational opportunities. Christine’s commitment extends beyond the classroom, involving her students in international research projects and advocating for agricultural literacy and student well-being nationwide.
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How student's personal experiences shape learning and scientific exploration.
Join PBS and YouTube creator Dr. Joe Hanson to learn about the importance of storytelling and curiosity in education. Joe and Dave discuss the value of being the narrator of your own story and the dangers of algorithms and passive content consumption. They touch on the unreliability of memory and the power of personal experiences. The conversation ends with a personal story about a spooky experience that turned out to have a logical explanation. The conversation explores the universal experience of curiosity and the importance of nurturing it. It discusses how curiosity is innate in children and how adults can learn from their natural curiosity. The conversation also touches on the value of noticing and being present in the world, as well as the power of books and magazines to inspire wonder and expand our understanding of the world. It concludes with a discussion on the impact of curiosity on learning and the potential of technology to enhance our ability to explore and understand the natural world. In this final part of the conversation, Joe and Dave discuss the potential for using AI tools to understand whale communication and the importance of listening to nature. They explore the idea of translating whale songs into human language and the challenges of understanding different species' perspectives. They also touch on the limitations of human senses and the need for humility in scientific exploration. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of boredom and the importance of being in control of one's own mind.
Joe's PBS YouTube ChannelJoe's Twitter. Joe's Instagram. Joe's TikTok.
ABOUT JOEJoe Hanson, Ph.D., is a science writer, biologist, educator, and YouTube creator. He is the creator and host of Be Smart, an award-winning science education show from PBS that celebrates curiosity and the pleasure of finding things out. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin, and his science writing has been published by WIRED, Nautilus, Scientific American and Texas Monthly. He lives in Austin, TX.
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Teaching students how to interpret headlines and media sensationalism. Join PBS correspondent Mile's Obrien as he discusses this current event with host Dave Bakker and special guest, Clifton Roozeboom. The conversation revolves around the topic of airline safety, specifically focusing on the recent issues with Boeing's 737 Max 9. The hosts discuss the sensationalism in the news media and the importance of critical thinking when consuming information. They emphasize the need to seek out primary sources and trusted experts to filter out biased or misleading information. The concept of risk and reward is also explored, highlighting the need to assess risks in a meaningful way. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about the future of flying cars.
Learn more about Miles on his website: https://milesobrien.com/
Connect with Miles on Twitter at https://twitter.com/milesobrien
Watch Mile's conference session from Science is Cool 8: https://www.thepocketlab.com/video/scic8/miles-obrien
ABOUT MILESMiles O’Brien is a veteran, award-winning journalist who focuses on science, technology, aerospace, and the environment.
He is the science correspondent for PBS NewsHour, a producer and director for the PBS science documentary series NOVA, and a correspondent for the PBS documentary series FRONTLINE and the National Science Foundation Science Nation series.
For nearly seventeen of his thirty-two years in the news business, he worked for CNN as the science, environment and aerospace correspondent and the anchor of various programs, including American Morning.
While at CNN, he secured a deal with NASA to become the first journalist to fly on the space shuttle. The project ended with the loss of Columbia and her crew in 2003 – a story he told to the world in a critically acclaimed sixteen-hour marathon of live coverage.
Prior to joining CNN, he worked as a reporter at television stations in Boston, Tampa, Albany, NY and St. Joseph, MO. He began his television career as a desk assistant at WRC-TV in Washington, DC.
O’Brien is an accomplished pilot and is frequently called upon to explain the world of aviation to a mass audience. He has won numerous awards over the years, including a half-dozen Emmys, and a Peabody and DuPont for his coverage of Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath.
In February of 2014, a heavy equipment case fell on his forearm while he was on assignment. He developed Acute Compartment Syndrome, which necessitated the emergency amputation of his left arm above the elbow.
Born in Detroit and raised in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI, he is based in Washington, DC. He has a son at the US Naval Academy and a daughter at Davidson College in North Carolina. He was a history major at Georgetown University.
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Enhancing STEM education and preparing students for technical careers.
Mike Vargas discusses his involvement in the Arizona STEM Acceleration Project, a $10 million grant aimed at improving STEM education in the state. He highlights the need to start STEM education early and the importance of project-based learning. Vargas emphasizes the need for authentic science experiences and the role of mentors in inspiring students. He also addresses the challenges faced by rural teachers and the efforts to connect science careers with teachers through initiatives like Stem to Space. This conversation explores various themes related to STEM education and career opportunities. The discussion highlights the wide range of STEM careers available in the federal space, the importance of external influences in career choices, and the need for career education in schools. The conversation also touches on the Smart Scholarship and other opportunities for students, the evolving thinking between four-year degrees and CTE paths, and the value of teaching critical thinking skills. The challenges of shifting paradigms in education, the need for statistics education in high school, and the importance of interpreting data and studies are also discussed. The conversation concludes with a focus on the effort to increase the number of certificates and degrees, the outcomes measured in the project, and the creation of an archive of STEM lesson plans.
Learn more about the Arizona State University STEM program https://stemteachers.asu.edu/ ABOUT MIKEMike Vargas is a 20-year veteran Physics teacher who is a founding member of the Cactus Caucus, a group of Arizona Physics teachers who helped pass legislation to advance science teacher education in Arizona. This effort led to the Arizona Department of Education’s “Get Set for STEM”program which aimed to increase the number of higher-level STEM teachers state wide. This initiative helped increase the number of physics teachers in Arizona by nearly 20%. Mike is also a founding member of STEMteachersPHX and has extensive ties to the Arizona Science Teachers Association, the American Modeling Teachers Association, and the American Association of Physics Teachers. Mike served as a board member to the Northern Arizona University K12 Center and has been an active participant in the Arizona Education Foundations efforts to promote STEM education with its “TeachSTEM” program. Mike has served on the Air Force Association National Aerospace Council for the last few years and co-led the Space Force’s first national education outreach project, “STEM to Space”. Mike served on the Federal Coordination in STEM’s Interagency Working Group for Strategic Partnerships (IWG-SP) and served as a Department of Defense Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow to the Department of the Air Force K12 STEM National Office as well as the Department of Defense’s Strategic Manufacturing Education Workforce Development program. His policy and strategic partnership experience has been essential for the creation of Arizona State University’s newest initiative -The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project. He is currently the Co-Principal investigator and Senior Program Manager for ASAP.
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Innovative science teaching through simulated space exploration.
In this conversation, Lauren shares her experience of flying in zero gravity and conducting experiments. The chapters cover various aspects of the flight, including the parabolic flight pattern, the duration of zero gravity, and the unpredictability of movement in zero gravity. Lauren also discusses the experiments conducted, such as the Diet Coke experiment and the hydrophobic material experiment. The involvement of students in experiment design and the funding and organizations supporting the flight are also explored. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging students in real-world science experiences and the potential for future flights and experiments.
Learn more about Limitless Space Educator Program https://www.limitlessspace.org/limitless-educator-program/ ABOUT LAURENLauren Parker teaches seventh- and eighth-grade science at Fort Worth Academy in Fort Worth, Texas. She has earned many recognitions in her teaching career including being named District Teacher of the Year, The Bayard H. Friedman Hero Award, and the Tony So Excellence in Education Award. She was also selected to present with her students at the NASA/Sally Ride Science GRAIL MoonKam Teacher Expo in Washington, D.C. to share how the mission was incorporated in the classroom. She serves as a member of the Space Exploration Educator Crew program at Space Center Houston; a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador, a Space Station Ambassador with the ISS National Laboratory, and a Limitless Space Institute Educator Ambassador. Most recently, Lauren was one of eight teachers nationwide to participate in the Embedded Teacher Program through the Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium in partnership with Space for Teachers. This allowed Lauren’s students to develop experiments for a microgravity environment which she then flew and conducted for them on board a Zero-G parabolic flight.
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AI: the benefits, ethics, and future of critical thinking skills.
Tammie Schrader, Science Coordinator in Washington State, discusses the impact of AI in education. She and Dave explore the challenges and benefits of implementing AI tools in the classroom, as well as the need for ethical guidelines and critical thinking skills. They also touch on the evolving nature of technology and the importance of updating educational materials to reflect current advancements. The conversation highlights the potential of AI to enhance learning experiences and foster critical thinking skills among students. Additionally, they discuss concerns related to privacy, ownership, and the competitive nature of gifted students. In this conversation, Tammie and Dave discuss the use of AI tools in education and the importance of critical thinking. They explore the assessment of critical thinking skills and the potential of AI to assist in data analysis.
They also discuss the role of AI in coding and the future of AI in education. The conversation highlights the need for student involvement in AI discussions and the importance of addressing biases in AI. They emphasize that AI should be seen as a tool, not a replacement for teachers, and discuss the power of AI in differentiating instruction and promoting equity in education. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the potential of AI in education and the importance of using it to enhance learning experiences. This conversation explores the power of technology in education and the role of AI in equalizing opportunities for students. It emphasizes the importance of understanding versus writing and encourages students to solve real-world problems.
The conversation also discusses the value of passion in problem-solving and the need for authentic learning experiences. Additionally, it highlights the limitations of traditional education and the flaws of word problems. The role of AI in education, the importance of critical thinking in teams, and the value of social-emotional learning are also explored. The conversation concludes by emphasizing the need for authentic conversations and the importance of thinking critically about AI.
ABOUT TAMMIETammie is a Regional Science and Computer Science Coordinator for Northeast Washington Education Service District 101 in Washington State. Tammie was a science teacher at Cheney Middle School, in Cheney, Washington for 15 years. She is currently an adjunct science methods instructor at Whitworth University. She taught Life Science as well as Computer Programming, Gaming Programming, Robotics as well as coaching the Science Olympiad Team, Robotics Club, SeaPerch Team as well as Future Business Leaders of America at her middle school. She has her B.A. in Education as well as a B.S. in Biology. She earned her M.A. in Education and Teaching At-Risk Students from Gonzaga University. She is currently enrolled as a Ph.D. candidate and is writing her dissertation on Leadership and Game-Based Education in the Classroom.
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Georgia Curriculum Director uses technology to enhance learning.
Dr. Scott Sweeting talks with us about integrating AI in science and computer science education, highlighting how it can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills vital for today's students. Key topics include using AI for more efficient assessment writing, fostering creativity through AI tools, and adapting teaching methods for future technological advancements. The talk also covers practical applications of AI in classroom settings, such as Swift code generation and open AI tests, preparing students for emerging jobs. Additionally, it touches on the exciting use of AI in environmental science, the significance of events like solar eclipses, and the role of planetariums in sparking student interest, all essential for science educators looking to enrich their curriculum and teaching strategies.
ABOUT SCOTTDr. Scott Sweeting epitomizes a lifelong dedication to advancing science education. With over 23 years of experience in the field of science education, his journey has been marked by a profound commitment to igniting curiosity and fostering a deep appreciation for the wonders of science. As a High School Science Teacher, STEM Coordinator, and now as the Secondary Curriculum Director for Thomas County Schools, Dr. Sweeting has continually pushed boundaries and championed innovation in science education. He has embarked on a mission to transform science education at both the local and global levels.
Dr. Sweeting's academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Florida State University, where he laid the foundation for his passion for the natural sciences. Building upon this, he pursued higher education at Valdosta State University, earning both a Master's and Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Within the Thomas County School system, Dr. Sweeting spearheads an array of programs aimed at nurturing scientific curiosity and prowess. From science and computer science to Artificial Intelligence and physical education, his influence extends across diverse domains. He oversees initiatives such as Project Lead the Way, the Gentian Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, and Lego League, providing students with immersive experiences that transcend traditional classroom boundaries.
Beyond curriculum development, Dr. Sweeting is a fervent advocate for promoting the significance of science within the community. He tirelessly communicates the importance of scientific literacy to teachers, students, and the wider public, emphasizing its role in shaping our understanding of the world. His efforts have garnered international recognition, with Thomas County Schools participating in the prestigious Pocket Lab Unconference SCIC 8. This global platform showcased the collaboration between the school system and Georgia Tech on Urban Heat Island research, attracting over 8,000 educators from around the world.
In a landmark collaboration with Chattooga County Schools, Georgia Public Broadcasting, and the Georgia Department of Education, Dr. Sweeting helped lead the production of the groundbreaking middle school science series, "Science in Action." This initiative exemplifies his vision of a 3D science classroom, where students are engaged through hands-on experimentation and real-world applications.
Dr. Scott Sweeting's unwavering dedication to science education has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape. His tireless advocacy, innovative initiatives, and collaborative spirit continue to inspire generations of students and educators alike, propelling science education into new frontiers of discovery and enlightenment.
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USASEF Director discusses learning motivation and discovery in STEM education.
Amy Oliverio, Director of the USA Science and Engineering Festival discusses various topics related to learning, motivation, and the joy of discovery. They delve into the idea of challenging oneself and the satisfaction derived from overcoming obstacles, drawing parallels between learning experiences and the rush of endorphins experienced during magic tricks. Amy shares insights from neuroscientist Andrew Huberman, emphasizing the importance of tackling difficult tasks to develop the brain and highlighting the physiological changes that occur when individuals engage in challenging activities. They discuss the gratification derived from problem-solving, whether it's analyzing data to uncover anomalies or exploring new concepts like bonsai plants on YouTube, showcasing the value of lifelong learning and adaptability.
Throughout the conversation, Dave and Amy reflect on the enduring nature of skills acquired through learning, illustrating this with examples ranging from starting YouTube channels in one's 80s to fostering problem-solving skills in students. They underscore the transformative power of curiosity and the rewards of persistence, emphasizing the role of mentors and supportive environments in nurturing a culture of exploration and growth. They conclude with a call to action for teachers interested in applying for fellowships, encapsulating the theme of continuous learning and the collective pursuit of knowledge.
USA Science and Engineering Festival: https://usasciencefestival.org/
ABOUT AMY
Free X-STEM lessons (NGSS and CASEL): https://app.thepocketlab.com/pocketlab-library?filters=X-STEMSince joining the Festival in 2019, Amy has contributed to the development of partnerships, programs, and marketing strategies that include the creation of an extensive email outreach program targeting Title 1 schools across the country and implementation of a social media marketing and advertising strategy. After 13 years with a major corporation and 10 years running her own travel and event business, she is loving the switch in gears to a mission-driven non-profit organization that serves the educator and helps to fill our nation’s upcoming workforce needs in the STEM fields.
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Empowering student innovation with the US Department of Education.
In this conversation, Kari Byron (Mythbusters, EXPLR Media, Crash Test World) is joined by National STEM Champion Sritej Sai Padmanabhan. Kari, Sritej and Dave discuss his STEM Festival project Neuralize, which aims to quantitatively measure disease markers associated with Parkinson's disease. Inspired by his grandfather's diagnosis, Sritej wanted to create a tool that could remotely monitor the condition of Parkinson's patients, especially those in rural and underserved areas. This conversation explores the themes of problem-solving, technology, and the importance of support in the STEM field. The guests discuss the desire of the younger generation to make a difference and the impact of technology on problem-solving. They also highlight the time and effort required to solve problems and the importance of starting small and thinking big. The National STEM Festival is promoting students and their projects like this one with the goal of creating a community where young innovators can showcase their brilliance and be inspired to pursue their passions in STEM fields. They believe in fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to excel and make a meaningful impact on the world.
ABOUT KARIFor nearly two decades Kari Byron has been a strong presence in the world of science television. She is best known as a host on Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters but has gone on to host and produce shows spanning several networks;Head Rush, Punkin Chunkin, LDRS, Thrill Factor, Strange Trips, America Declassified, The White Rabbit Project, Positive Energy and Crash Test World.
ABOUT SRITEJSritej Sai Padmanabhan is a 10th grader from North Allegheny Intermediate High School. Srtiej’s project observes how getting medical access in rural areas is a struggle for those who suffer from neurological disorders such as Parkinson's Disease (PD). His objective was to create a telehealth solution through a computer vision tool that can quantitatively measure Parkinsonian Disease Markers and then use these values to quantify the disease severity.
This project is very close to Sritej- as two years ago, his grandfather was diagnosed with Parkinson's' disease, and it was difficult to monitor conditions remotely. He noticed firsthand how much hand tremors can affect one's daily life and set off on the task to address this with his skills in computer science.
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Hawaii teacher discusses teaching strategy with project-based learning.
Mia-Pia Cummins shares her journey as a middle school science teacher, tackling curriculum challenges and emphasizing hands-on learning and adaptability in education. She discusses the beauty and challenge of teaching in such a rural area like she is in Hawaii. Mia-Pia discusses the challenges she faces as a middle school science teacher, particularly with curriculum choices and state standards. She highlights the importance of having flexibility in teaching materials and the need for mixed media, including printed resources, to cater to different learning styles. Mia-Pia emphasizes the value of allowing students to make mistakes and engage in hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, Mia-Pia and Dave discuss the frustrations teachers encounter with mandated curricula and the importance of adapting to students' needs. Throughout the conversation, they underscore the necessity of empowering teachers with the autonomy to choose and customize their instructional materials.
They dig into differences in different learning environments and cultures stemming from Mia-Pia’s experience growing up in Europe. They emphasize the importance of allowing students to make mistakes and encouraging critical thinking in the learning process. Mia-Pia shares her experiences with using Kesler Science materials and the benefits of having access to a diverse range of resources for teaching. They conclude the conversation by expressing their commitment to improving education and finding innovative solutions to address the limitations of the current system.
Hawaii Science Teachers Association: https://hasta.wildapricot.org/
ABOUT Mia-PiaAloha,
I’m Mia-Pia Cummins-VanHerreweghe, and I am a 7th-grade Science teacher at Konawaena Middle School in Kealakekua on the Big Island of Hawai’i. I started teaching Math in 2007, and switched to teaching 8th-grade Science in 2012 and 7th-grade Science in 2014. I hold dual licensure for Math and Science 6-12.
My students are a very diverse group of students from various backgrounds and ethnicities. My classes are fully inclusive for both English language learners and Special Education students. My passion is using project-based and culturally relevant learning opportunities for my students while also focusing on NGSS.
I was born and raised in Belgium and attended the KU Leuven Medical School. After leaving the medical field and moving to the US, I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Hawai’i at Hilo, and my Post-Baccalaureate in Secondary Math Education from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, where I also obtained my Master’s of Education in Learning Design and Technology with a Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning.
I currently serve as president of the Hawai’i Science Teaching Association, and will be serving as National Science Teaching Association Director for District XVI (California, Hawaii, Nevada, American Samoa, Guam, Territory of the Pacific Islands) starting this summer.
Before and after school, I work on my farm in South Kona, where I raise various types of chickens, ducks, geese, and sheep. In my spare time I enjoy baking bread. -
In this bonus episode, we have an extension of our conversation with professor, speaker, and author, John Spencer. We dig into his love of project-based learning and how he stays inspired in his classroom.
https://spencerauthor.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@spencereducation
https://twitter.com/spencerideas
https://www.facebook.com/spencereducation/
https://www.instagram.com/spencereducation
ABOUT JOHNHi, I’m John Spencer. I’m a former middle school teacher and current college professor on a quest to transform schools into bastions of creativity and wonder. I want to see teachers unleash the creative potential in all of their students so that kids can be makers, designers, artists, and engineers. I explore research, interview educators, deconstruct systems, and study real-world examples of design thinking in action. I share what I’m learning in books, blog posts, journal articles, free resources, animated videos, and podcasts.
You can subscribe to John’s newsletter at https://spencerauthor.com/newsletter/.
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In this week's episode, Dave joins Dr. John Spencer to take a dive deep into the evolution of technology, education, and innovation. Their conversation delves into the importance of project-based learning in education, emphasizing the value of empowering students to explore, experiment, and learn through hands-on experiences. They discuss the significance of embracing failure as an inherent part of the learning process and highlight the parallels between classroom dynamics and real-world industries like music and semiconductor manufacturing. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the need for engaging, curiosity-driven education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability.
By sharing personal anecdotes and insights, Dave and John underscore the importance of fostering a culture of experimentation and risk-taking in both education and professional fields. They emphasize the power of phenomena-based learning, drawing connections between scientific principles and real-world applications. Through examples ranging from Elton John's music career to Steve Spangler's captivating demonstrations, they illustrate the concept of prolific creation and the iterative nature of success. Ultimately, the episode underscores the need for educators to embrace innovative teaching methodologies that prioritize curiosity, exploration, and resilience, preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
https://spencerauthor.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@spencereducation
https://twitter.com/spencerideas
https://www.facebook.com/spencereducation/
https://www.instagram.com/spencereducation
ABOUT JOHNHi, I’m John Spencer. I’m a former middle school teacher and current college professor on a quest to transform schools into bastions of creativity and wonder. I want to see teachers unleash the creative potential in all of their students so that kids can be makers, designers, artists, and engineers. I explore research, interview educators, deconstruct systems, and study real-world examples of design thinking in action. I share what I’m learning in books, blog posts, journal articles, free resources, animated videos, and podcasts.
You can subscribe to John’s newsletter at https://spencerauthor.com/newsletter/.
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In this podcast episode, Dave engages in a conversation with Christa Dillabaugh, Director of the Morpho Institute, discussing their conservation efforts and educational programs in the Amazon rainforest. Krista shares insights into the institute's initiatives, highlighting the delicate balance between progress and conservation in the region. They delve into the challenges of managing biodiversity while accommodating human presence, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that involve indigenous communities and diverse perspectives.
Furthermore, Christa elaborates on the Morpho Institute's educational programs, detailing their Amazon research program and efforts to broaden participation and diversity. They discuss upcoming projects, including biodiversity monitoring and field investigations, underscoring the importance of hands-on learning experiences for educators and students alike. Through collaborative efforts and thoughtful planning, the Morpho Institute aims to foster a deeper understanding of tropical ecology while advocating for sustainable conservation practices in the Amazon.
https://morphoinstitute.org/
PocketLabs in the Amazon! https://morphoinstitute.org/pocketlab-in-the-amazon/
https://www.instagram.com/morphoinstitute/
https://www.facebook.com/morphoinstitute
ABOUT CHRISTAChrista's journey through science, biology, and education has been a bit like the Amazon River - lots of curves and switchbacks, but all culminating in where she is today. She is currently the director of the Morpho Institute, a conservation education non-profit that develops field study programs for US K12 educators - all based in the Peruvian Amazon. Her love of the Amazon and neotropical rainforests began while leading expeditions for my middle school students.
Her current passion is blending inquiry, place-based education, and community-based conservation into professional learning experiences for teachers. Her next big project is developing a ‘research experience for teachers’ that focuses on biodiversity monitoring in the Amazon.
She have a Bachelor of Science from Purdue University and a Masters of Biology from Miami University. Before founding the Morpho Institute, she was a middle and high school science educator. She has also worked as a science consultant for Pearson Education and Discovery Communications, contributing to curriculum and activity guides as well as educator in-service workshops and training materials focusing on STEM and Understanding by Design in the science classroom.
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This is a bonus episode of the Science is Cool Unplugged podcast where we get to hear more of our conversation we had with Chuck Nice. They discuss fostering a love for learning and why that is more important than the love of grades and achievement. They also dig into how to create meaningful classroom interactions and more!
https://www.chucknicecomic.com/
ABOUT CHUCKA self-confessed science geek, Mr. Nice is an activist masquerading as a comedian who uses his quick wit and warm personality to rally his audience around the most pressing issues of our time: climate change.
Chuck Nice is a 19-year veteran of stand-up comedy with a rich history in both entertainment and climate activism. He has worked across all mediums, including radio, television, and podcasts. Recently, Mr. Nice appeared in “The Week Of” with Adam Sandler and Chris Rock, and delivered a TED Talk on the main stage of the Vancouver conference, about the unintended consequence of future tech and human interaction. He is the co-host of Star Talk with Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson on Nat Geo. Mr. Nice has also hosted How to Buy Like Mega Millionaire and Home Strange Home on HGTV. He is a regular contributor to the Today Show, has guest hosted The View, and he is a frequent guest on MSNBC, CNN, and HLN. Other credits include: host of Price This Place on HGTV, VH-1‘s Best Week Ever, TRU TV’s World’s Dumbest, The Katie Couric Show, Bethany, The Meredith Viera Show, The Juice on Veria Living, The Better Show, Vh-1’s 40 Greatest, Black to the Future, Undatable, 100 Greatest Songs of 00’s, The Hot Ten on Centric, WE TV’s Cinematherapy, That’s So House Hunters, the red carpet pre-show for the Independent Spirit Awards and host of "Is It True?" on Discovery.
Despite his busy schedule, he still makes time to regularly perform at New York City comedy clubs. Mr. Nice is currently busy preparing to launch the world’s first digital youth climate summit, “Shh...It’s Real!”
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This is a bonus episode of the Science is Cool Unplugged podcast where we get to hear the extension of our conversation we had with Patti Lawrimore. They discuss how she utilizes Chat GPT in her classroom and the ways she uses it as a tool and not a crutch. They also delve into the importance of science literacy and its interdisciplinary importance.
ABOUT PATTIPatti has been teaching science in Fulton County Georgia for 28 years most recently at Riverwood International as Instructional Lead for science and teaching Environmental Science. She loves teaching “outside the walls” and finding the perfect place on campus to experience science. Her classes have created and sustained food forests , opened an apiary and research garden on campus. Classes always focus on project and problem-based learning, making sure the students are learning how to ask great questions and the way to seek out the answers.
Her latest adventure is starting a STEM outreach program “LabDash”. Incorporating vertical instruction, bringing science phenomena to our feeder elementary schools.
She has a Bachelors of Science from University of Wisconsin-Madison in Conservation Biology and has an MEd.-Biology from North Georgia College.
When she’s not teaching she is hiking, practicing yoga or playing tennis.
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In this week's episode comedian and science television host, Chuck Nice, joins Dave to delve into the fascinating realms of science, education, and the pursuit of knowledge. Chuck shares insights into the importance of generating excitement in learning, emphasizing that the key lies in understanding rather than merely acing tests. Drawing parallels between his experiences and those of renowned scientists like Neil deGrasse Tyson, Chuck highlights the addictive nature of learning and the profound impact of passionate teachers. The conversation navigates through topics like the challenges of traditional grading systems, the value of foundational disciplines like math and science, and anecdotes from Chuck's own journey of discovery. Together, Chuck and Dave explore the dynamic interplay between curiosity, education, and the lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
As the episode unfolds, Chuck and Dave also share humorous anecdotes, touching upon Chuck's son's perspective on the challenges of AP bio and many other jokes. The episode is not only a captivating exploration of science and education but also a celebration of the joy inherent in the learning process. Listeners are treated to insightful discussions, personal stories, and Chuck's trademark humor, making it a humorous and thought-provoking episode.
https://www.chucknicecomic.com/
ABOUT CHUCKA self-confessed science geek, Mr. Nice is an activist masquerading as a comedian who uses his quick wit and warm personality to rally his audience around the most pressing issues of our time: climate change.
Chuck Nice is a 19-year veteran of stand-up comedy with a rich history in both entertainment and climate activism. He has worked across all mediums, including radio, television, and podcasts. Recently, Mr. Nice appeared in “The Week Of” with Adam Sandler and Chris Rock, and delivered a TED Talk on the main stage of the Vancouver conference, about the unintended consequence of future tech and human interaction. He is the co-host of Star Talk with Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson on Nat Geo. Mr. Nice has also hosted How to Buy Like Mega Millionaire and Home Strange Home on HGTV. He is a regular contributor to the Today Show, has guest hosted The View, and he is a frequent guest on MSNBC, CNN, and HLN. Other credits include: host of Price This Place on HGTV, VH-1‘s Best Week Ever, TRU TV’s World’s Dumbest, The Katie Couric Show, Bethany, The Meredith Viera Show, The Juice on Veria Living, The Better Show, Vh-1’s 40 Greatest, Black to the Future, Undatable, 100 Greatest Songs of 00’s, The Hot Ten on Centric, WE TV’s Cinematherapy, That’s So House Hunters, the red carpet pre-show for the Independent Spirit Awards and host of "Is It True?" on Discovery.
Despite his busy schedule, he still makes time to regularly perform at New York City comedy clubs. Mr. Nice is currently busy preparing to launch the world’s first digital youth climate summit, “Shh...It’s Real!”
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In this episode, Science Educator Patti Lawrimore joins Dave to share her passion for science education and the joy she gets from seeing students enthusiastic about what they are learning and discovering. She shares the ways she changes classroom structure in response to the students and their learning styles and requests and the ways it helps them connect to the material. They discuss ways to assess student understanding and the place of standardized testing in a learning environment. They emphasize the importance of learning scientific discovery skills and how they carry into fields other than science.
She talks about her current project, LabDash, a portable science experience that brings experiments and discovery play to feeder schools and promotes learning while having fun. It provides application opportunities for high schoolers and exploration opportunities for junior high and elementary schools.
They touch on other education points like science literacy, student connection, and meeting student's needs. She has a passion for earth science, student interaction, and getting students out of the classroom environment. She describes science as the physical education of the core classes and what's it to be the place where students get to "exercise" their brains past what happens in the other classes.
ABOUT PATTIPatti has been teaching science in Fulton County Georgia for 28 years most recently at Riverwood International as Instructional Lead for science and teaching Environmental Science. She loves teaching “outside the walls” and finding the perfect place on campus to experience science. Her classes have created and sustained food forests , opened an apiary and research garden on campus. Classes always focus on project and problem-based learning, making sure the students are learning how to ask great questions and the way to seek out the answers.
Her latest adventure is starting a STEM outreach program “LabDash”. Incorporating vertical instruction, bringing science phenomena to our feeder elementary schools.
She has a Bachelors of Science from University of Wisconsin-Madison in Conservation Biology and has an MEd.-Biology from North Georgia College.
When she’s not teaching she is hiking, practicing yoga or playing tennis.
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In this episode, science educator and founder of Kesler Science, Chris Kesler, joins Dave to discuss how to create student-focused learning that teaches them not just science concepts but how to learn and grow on their own by creating meaningful classroom experiences. They emphasize the importance of knowing your classroom and being attentive to student needs while keeping the focus on fostering a lifelong love of scientific discovery that can be carried into all aspects of learning. They acknowledge and discuss funding issues within science departments and give some advice on possibly how to gain funding and to encourage districts to invest in interactive science tools. They also discuss the importance of science to the learning mind and emphasize the use of science to teach important math and reading combination skills.
They emphasize Texas and the changes that are being made within Texas curriculum and the importance of those improvements. Chris has a passion for customizable learning and adaptation of lessons and concepts to fit whatever type of classroom a teacher might find themself in.
Find Kesler Science at: https://keslerscience.com/
Connect with Chris at: https://www.facebook.com/chrisjkesler
ABOUT CHRISChris Kesler is a former award-winning middle school science teacher. When he started teaching, he was underwhelmed by the lack of meaningful resources and overwhelmed by the small amount of time he had to create experiences for his students. He spent thousands of hours of his own time creating lessons, all designed from the ground up with four non-negotiables in mind:
Experiences have to be engaging.
Lessons have to build relationships.
Activities need to be student-centered and allow for student choice.
Students need to connect their learning to the real-world.
With these principles in place, the transformation that happened in his class was nothing short of spectacular. He noticed an increase in participation and engagement throughout the year. His test scores improved. More importantly, students made connections to the content, which built their confidence and gave them a sense of responsibility for their learning. Chris eventually stepped out of the classroom to focus on helping other teachers feel less stressed and more confident in their day-to-day teaching. He created Kesler Science LLC, and today his materials have been used by tens of thousands of teachers across the country and around the world.
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In this episode, Dave and STEM educator and TV personality, Steve Spangler have an enlightening conversation about the interest students and young people naturally have in science and how to bring that to life in the classroom. They discuss Steves's success with the Diet Coke and Mentos experiment and how it captured the attention of millions in and out of the classroom. Steve draws on his experience as a magician and how that influences the way he teaches and engages the classroom. He talks about is experience making videos with Sick Science, and how they have changed their social media presence and strategy over the years.
They discuss some of the issues teachers face today in the classroom and barriers to using creative teacher techniques. He shares his love for creating memorable classroom experiences over forgettable work and fostering a love within students that will stay with them beyond the classroom.
Get in touch with Steve: https://stevespangler.com/
ABOUT STEVEHe’s a bestselling author, STEM educator, and business leader branded by TIME Magazine as one of their “most influential people of the year” because of his passion for inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.
With more than 2,100 television appearances and multiple Emmy awards to his credit, Steve Spangler understands the power of using television to make learning science fun.
Steve’s catalog of videos featured on social media has more than 1.5 billion views, and parents and educators widely use his books and online experiments to increase student engagement and inspire young scientists to learn more about STEM-based careers.
Nationally known as a teacher’s teacher, Steve travels extensively, working with educators at all levels in ways to make learning more connected and engaging in the 21st-century classroom. Steve’s in-person and virtual professional development workshops focus on inquiry-based learning that highlights best practices for classroom teachers with research-guided strategies for purpose-driven engagement.
But Steve Spangler feels most at home when he’s on stage sharing insights and creating those amazing experiences audiences remember for a lifetime. Steve brings over 30 years of experience (6,500+ presentations) to the platform every time he speaks.
In July 2010, members of the National Speakers Association inducted Steve into the prestigious Speaker Hall of Fame. He is among an elite group of only 242 professional speakers in the world to receive this honor.
In 2022, Spangler joined the faculty at High Point University (High Point, North Carolina) as the STEM Educator in Residence. Steve works with students and faculty to create transformational experiences that inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
For the past two years, Steve Spangler has been honored to be included in the Global Gurus Top 30 in Education. This achievement recognizes Steve’s passion for finding the most creative ways to inspire students and educators worldwide.
Whether you’re looking for an amazing keynote speaker to kick-off your event, teacher training and professional development opportunities to help you become a more effective STEM educator, or personalized consulting and coaching, Steve Spangler can help you create your own transformational experiences in business and education.
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In this podcast episode, Dave and educator Xochitl engage in a dynamic conversation about the challenges and rewards of project-based learning (PBL) in science classrooms. They discuss the importance of rethinking the nature of projects, emphasizing the difference between low and high-quality PBL. Xochitl emphasizes the need for authenticity in projects, encouraging teachers to provide diverse exemplars that showcase creativity and depth. The conversation delves into the complexities of resource curation for teachers and the challenge of balancing hands-on experiences with existing bodies of knowledge. They explore the role of science media in inspiring curiosity and framing phenomena, ultimately highlighting the inherently creative nature of teaching. The episode also touches on the significance of teacher creativity in maintaining the joy of learning in the classroom.
The duo shares insights into the ongoing efforts to support teachers in project design, discussing the need for curated materials, exemplars, and resources aligned with standards. They explore the role of feedback and adaptability in teaching, recognizing the importance of acknowledging students as individuals capable of figuring things out. The episode provides a rich exploration of the intricacies of project-based learning, emphasizing the creative and adaptive nature of effective teaching.
ABOUT XOCHITLXochitl Garcia is an experienced educator and instructional coach committed to working with schools and nonprofits to create more equitable learning environments for young people. She brings over 17 years of experience as an educator, curriculum developer, professional development leader, and program manager. Xochitl is an education consultant working with districts nationally on educator and leader professional development, selection and development of instructional materials, and the redesign of school systems and structures to create the best learning spaces for young people and those who work with them.
Most recently, Xochitl served as the K-12 education program manager at Science Friday, where she facilitated a community of teacher leaders that worked to develop science experiences based on current research, designed and led STEM professional development, and programming to increase justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work in STEM. Before that, she was the Manager of Instruction and School Design at Springpoint: Partners in School Design, where she worked nationally to both design and redesign high school models with a focus on equitable design grounded in student and community voices. Xochitl was a teacher for seven years in the South Bronx in New York City, where she led work in special Education and STEM. Xochitl began her career working with GEAR-UP Project Higher Learning in LAUSD to develop peer mentoring programs to increase support and access to post-secondary opportunities.
Xochitl can be found pursuing curiosity about this strange and wonderful world we live in (can we talk about dark plastic, please!?!), tinkering around to figure out how to generate models and experiences that help explain the natural world, and playing board games with her family at home in NYC.
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