Digital Learning Today

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Will Stewart and Lacey Greco on the program to discuss how Edji is being used to help students of all ages improve their reading abilities.&nbsp;In this episode, you will learn:How does Edji help teachers in their classroom?Edji’s StoryHow Edji is used to get more from classroom readingHow can Edji be used in the classroom?Lesson Planning with EdjiTeacher Tools inside of EdjiStudent stories?About EdjiEdji is a Free online reading platform that lets teachers easily deliver any content to their students for live annotation. Students reading in Edji can interact with text, images, and PDF documents by leaving text, emoji, or recorded audio comments. Teachers see those interactions appear live on their screen, which gives teachers instant insight into what their students are thinking, where students are struggling, and which students need help. Edji also gives an exclusive look into where students are reading, letting teachers know instantly if students are achieving learning goals, or if they are missing important information.Links of InterestEdjiWebsite: https://edji.ithttp://guide.edji.it/https://edji.it/#/discoverFacebook: www.facebook.com/edjinotesTwitter: www.twitter.com/edjinotesLacyTwitter: www.twitter.com/lacygreco3About our GuestsWill StewartWill Stewart is a 5th-grade teacher, father, and Edji Co-founder with more than 10 years of experience teaching elementary, middle and high school students. He has an unquenchable love for educating young minds in all subjects but has a holds a special place in his heart for Language and Reading Education. When he isn't teaching or finding new ways to use Edji, Will loves dinosaurs, biking and spending time with his family.Lacy GrecoWith 11 years experience in education, Lacy has taught 4th grade for 8 years, 1st for 2 years, and 3rd grade for one year, all in the Northside Independent School District. She is currently her campus’ Educator of the Year! She also does weekly Wednesday videos on Twitter (check out #EchoGreco!) to share ideas that she uses in her classroom. It’s a virtual PLC, if you will, to help put out best practices and reach more kids!Follow the TeacherCast PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | <a href="http://twitter.com/jeffbradbury"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome ASCD authors Jennifer Bay-Williams and Gina Kling on the program to discuss how students can easily pick up complex math concepts no matter what grade or ability level.&nbsp;Please check out their new book available from ASCD Publications for more information on how you can provide quality math education to your students today!We wish to thank ASCD for helping to put this podcast together.In this episode, we discuss:The phases children progress through as they master their factsWhat does fluency mean? How is it different from automaticity?How do games provide meaningful fact practice?What are the disadvantages of timed testing? What alternatives are there to timed testing?Why is it important for teachers and parents to understand the distinction between foundational facts and derived facts, and how should that impact instructional choices?How do we help families understand there are better ways to teach and assess facts?Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestsJennifer M. Bay-WilliamsJennifer M. Bay-Williams is a mathematics teacher educator at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She has written many articles and books related to K–12 mathematics education, including the popular Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally and the related three-book series, Teaching Student-Centered Mathematics.Bay-Williams is a national leader in mathematics education, having served as a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Board of Directors, secretary and president of the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), lead writer for the Standards for Preparing Teachers of Mathematics (AMTE, 2017), and a member of the TODOS: Mathematics for ALL Board of Directors. Bay-Williams taught elementary, middle, and high school students in Missouri and in Peru. She currently works in elementary classrooms in the Louisville area, helping teachers and students attain basic fact fluency while also developing strong mathematical identities.Gina KlingGina Kling is fortunate to serve the mathematics education community in a variety of ways. Since 2011, she has worked as a curriculum developer for the elementary mathematics curriculum Everyday Mathematics (based at the University of Chicago) with a focus on grades K–3. Recently she served as the grade 1 lead author for the Everyday Mathematics 4 State Editions, the author of the Everyday Mathematics 4 Quick Looks Activity Book, and one of the authors of Everyday Mathematics for Parents: What You Need to Know to Help Your Child Succeed.Kling has taught elementary mathematics content and methods courses for the past 15 years at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan.About Math Fact FluencyMastering the basic facts for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division is an essential goal for all students. Most educators also agree that success at higher levels of math hinges on this fundamental skill. But what's the best way to get there? Are flash cards, drills, and timed tests the answer? If so, then why do students go into the upper elementary grades (and beyond) still counting on their fingers or experiencing math anxiety? What does research say about teaching basic math facts so they will stick?In <a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Raysana Hurtado from Intel and California Educator, Kennan Scott, onto the program to discuss how Intel is transforming education by demonstrating what might be possible in not just the “classroom of the future”, but the “classroom of the present”.This year, Intel traveled across the country working with teachers and students to showcase their Intel's Tech Learning Lab, a custom-built, mobile truck that is filled with the most amazing virtual reality and augmented reality workstations to provide hands-on activities to teach students about coding and robotics.I'd like to thank Intel for joining me for this podcast.In this episode, we discuss:The future classroom is one that incorporates powerful technology and encourages creative approaches to learning, supporting education goals today and for tomorrow. Until now, classroom technology has been used as an add-on to existing instructional methods rather than as tools to improve or revolutionize instruction. Cutting-edge technology-based educational programs can emphasize deeper collaboration and engagement, versus student instruction on software that likely will be obsolete by the time they enter the workforce.Intel’s Tech Learning Lab is an example of how innovative teaching methods, like hands-on, dynamic learning, can help educators build the leaders of tomorrow by developing fundamental career skills like communication, collaboration, self-awareness, problem-solving, critical thinking and more.Some of the demo sessions on the tour include coding a drone to fly, hands-on lessons through virtual reality, introduction to artificial intelligence, design thinking skills, and more. Some of the truck’s VR experiences allowed participants to: Take a virtual field trip to the Renwick Gallery at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C.Develop virtual robots in the Robotics lab using RoboEngineers by Filament Games. Pilot a spaceship and travel the universe to explore the Milky Way galaxy via virtual reality by VictoryVR.Participate in virtual frog dissections, providing a safer, cost-effective, and more humane life science/anatomy lessons by VictoryVR.Program highlights to-date include:2,150+ students, educators and general public have participated in immersive educational experiences through the Tech Learning Lab 1,020+ virtual tours of the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s “No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man” exhibit 700+ frogs virtually dissected through hands-on science lessons&nbsp;Technologies in the campaign included Intel AI, PCs by Intel, Lenovo, Alienware, HP, virtual reality by Oculus and HTC Vive and more.Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout IntelIntel, a leader in the semiconductor industry, is shaping the data-centric future with computing and communications technology that is the foundation of the world’s innovations. The company’s engineering expertise is helping address the world’s greatest challenges as well as helping secure, power and connect billions of devices and the infrastructure of the smart, connected world – from the cloud to the network to the edge and everything in between. Intel’s 360⁰ approach to education technology keeps the focus on a student-centered...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with authors Matthew R Kay and Shawna Coppola about race relations in today's classrooms and how school districts, teachers, and students can sit down and have positive and constructive conversations on the topic.In this episode, we discuss:How to recognize the difference between meaningful and inconsequential race conversations.&nbsp;How to build conversational “safe spaces,” not merely declare them.&nbsp;How to infuse race conversations with urgency and purpose.&nbsp;How to thrive in the face of unexpected challenges.&nbsp;How administrators might equip teachers to thoughtfully engage in these conversations.Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestShawna Coppola has taught in public schools for over sixteen years. She currently works as a K-6 literacy specialist in Rollinsford, New Hampshire, and teaches courses and seminars through the New Hampshire Literacy Institutes as well as the University of New Hampshire’s Professional Development &amp; Training program. She is a firm believer in the power and wisdom of children of all ages and is grateful for the lessons they teach her on a daily basis.Twitter: @ShawnaCoppolaMatthew R. KayMatthew R. Kay is a proud product of Philadelphia’s public schools and a founding teacher at Science Leadership Academy (SLA). He is a graduate of West Chester University and holds a Masters in Educational Leadership with a Principals’ Certificate from California University of Pennsylvania. He deeply believes in the importance of earnest and mindful classroom conversations about race. Furthermore, he believes that any teacher who is willing to put in the hard work of reflection can, through the practice of discrete skills, become a better discussion leader. Driven by these convictions, he is passionate about designing professional development that teachers find valuable.Twitter: @MattRKayJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes: <a href="http://www.teachercast.net/iTunes"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with Debbie Scott who created Help A Teacher, a fantastic network of educators that allows teachers to connect with other teachers to support them with their classroom needs.In this episode, you will learn:What is HelpATeacher?Why do teachers need assistance in the classroom?Success StoriesHow anyone can help?What happens if your classroom needs help?Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestsDebbie ScottDebbie Scott is from Midland, Texas where she lives with her husband. She enjoys spending time with her three children, three children-in-laws and 9 grandchildren!&nbsp;Her faith is important to her and she attends First Baptist Church in Midland. She has a bachelors in Accounting and Information Systems but has worked as a legal assistant with her husband for the last 20+ years. She has always enjoyed helping people so Help A Teacher was an immediate fit for her.&nbsp;Creating her first Facebook page, Help A Teacher, and assisting in the creation of the webpage, HelpATeacher.com have brought her great joy and she strives everyday since to reach more Teachers to share with them the excitement of Help A Teacher. Jamie SamsonJamie Samson is from Chicago, IL where she lives with her husband and three children. She graduated from DePaul with a bachelors in sociology and political science, and worked as a social worker, before returning to DePaul to get a masters in education. She has been working for the 9 years for Chicago Public Schools. The last 8 years as a 5th grade teacher at Seward Academy on the south side of Chicago. When she’s not teaching she’s exploring the city with her husband and kids and reading, both for fun and for professional learning. Links of Interestwww.HelpATeacher.comFacebook Page@HelpATeacher2Help A Teacher FoundationJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunesCheck Out More TeacherCast ProgrammingTeacherCast Podcast (<a href="http://www.teachercast.net/tcp"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we broadcast LIVE from the 2018 ISTE Creative Constructor Lab and discuss the topics of Creativity and Collaboration in today's&nbsp;classrooms.Today's podcast was made possible by ISTE and we thank them for allowing TeacherCast to attend the conference and broadcast from the event.In this episode, you will learn:How should we define creativity within the confines of a digital classroom?How can Adobe Spark be used in our classrooms?What are we looking forward to next year at ISTE 2019!Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyExplore these ResourcesIn this episode, we mentioned the following resources:ISTE Conference 2019ISTE Creative Construtor LabJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunesCheck Out More TeacherCast ProgrammingTeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)The TechEducator Podcast (http://www.techeducatorpodcast.com)Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)Need a Presenter?Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with members of The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History about their partnership with the award-winning Broadway Musical, Hamilton.&nbsp;About The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American HistoryFounded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, visionaries and lifelong supporters of American history education, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 history education while also serving the general public. The Institute’s mission is to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources.At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. Drawing on the 70,000 documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection and an extensive network of eminent historians, the Institute provides teachers, students, and the general public with direct access to unique primary source materials.As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is supported through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Institute’s programs have been recognized by awards from the White House, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Organization of American Historians, and the Council of Independent Colleges.For More Informationwww.gilderlehrman.orgwww.Facebook.com/gilderlehrmanwww.instagram.com/gilderlehrmanwww.twitter.com/Gilder_LehrmanAbout our GuestsTim BaileyTim Bailey is the Director of Education for The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. He developed the Teaching Literacy through History and Hamilton Education programs. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the University of Utah. Prior to working with the Gilder Lehrman Institute Tim taught 4th, 5th, and 8th grades in Salt Lake City. Among his distinctions are National History Teacher of the Year (2009) and Utah State Teacher of the Year (2001). He authored the Easy Simulations book series for Scholastic publications and has contributed to books and articles concerning history, literacy, and education in general as well as speaking and being interviewed on those topics.Sasha Rolon PereiraIn her role as the Director of the Hamilton Education Program, Sasha oversees the coordination of the highly successful educational program that seeks to inspire the study of American History through a connection with the phenomenon that is Hamilton: The Musical. Sasha has represented the Institute in its work with the Hamilton team as it has partnered with school districts in New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Diego, Tempe, Houston, St Louis, Salt Lake City, Washington DC and Denver.&nbsp;Sasha has led the initiative since it started in October 2015 and is focused on leading the project to its goal of reaching over 250,000 students in a five-year span.A graduate of Boston University, Sasha joined Gilder Lerhman in 2002 and has overseen a number of high-profile projects at the Institute, including the redesign of the Gilder Lehrman website in 2012 and administration of&nbsp;Educational Seminars designed for teachers that have covered topics like: the Supreme Court in American History with Sandra Day O'Connor,Civil Rights, Scotland on Jefferson, Barbados on the Transatlantic Slave Trade. (we need better titles here.)&nbsp;Sasha, a New York City native, is bilingual in Spanish and English and has a first-hand understanding of the workings of New York City schools, having worked closely...

In this episode of TeacherCast Podcast,&nbsp;we welcome Doug Ashton from Streamable Learning along with educators Mark Hauk and Martin McGuire to discuss how students are able to travel the world through virtual field trips.&nbsp;In this episode, we discuss:Why is it important to bring audio and video into the classroom?Field trips vs virtual tripsHow to bring in video?What equipment do you need?AudioVideoStudents watching video vs students creating videoRecorded videoStreaming videoVideo conferencingWhat types of lessons can teachers create using video?Where is the best place for video to be stored and used?Should classroom video be expensive?Free ResourcesPremium ResourcesAugmenting the learning environmentAugmented RealityVirtual RealityWhat does the future of classroom video look like?About CompanyStreamable Learning is the leading provider of live and interactive video programming to K12 schools and homeschools.&nbsp;Programs are offered through a live streaming calendar of events or a catalog of video conferencing programs. The live streaming calendar is a daily schedule of 2 to 5 programs, available each day from over 100 different Streamable content partners, including leading museums, zoos, aquariums, art and historical organizations, universities, authors, performing art centers and companies. Curriculum coverage includes STEM, art, history, computer science and coding, health and wellness, college and career readiness, music, literature and culture.Twitter – @streamableLInstagram – streamablelearningAbout our GuestsDoug AshtonDoug Ashton is a co-founder and CEO of Streamable Learning, Live Learning Canada and The Live Living Network. Doug was formerly the founder of OpenExchange, Inc. a Boston and New York based video collaboration platform for the financial services industry. Prior to his time building video collaboration platforms, Doug as a long time equity analyst covering technology and telecommunications stocks for investment banks such as Bear Stearns and Jefferies. Doug's started his career in Washington, DC practicing telecommunications law.Mark HaukMark has been a teacher and educational technology advocate for more than 20 years.&nbsp;He currently runs the SD23 Virtual Field Trip &amp; Virtual Reality programs. We connect our teachers &amp; students to scientists, authors, explorers, adventurers, and other experts from around the world via live interactive videoconference.&nbsp;These range from diving the depths of the Great Barrier Reef, to orbiting the Earth on-board the International Space Station (and everything in between!).Martin McGuireMartin has been an A/V Engineer, Distance Learning Coordinator, Technology Resource Coordinator and Digital Media Systems Manager for the Chicago Public Schools for a combined 24 years.&nbsp;Martin successfully managed the districts first videoconferencing center in the Chicago Public Schools where his innovations lead to the creation of a nationally recognized virtual field trip program for inner-city youth.&nbsp;As part of his technology responsibilities he managed a school based videoconferencing program where he helped develop the first ever shared teacher program in Chicago. While in his current role as Digital Media Systems manager – Martin created videoconferencing partnerships with schools in Iraq, Mexico, Japan, Italy and Spain.&nbsp;Currently, he supports over 600+ schools that utilize Safari...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff sits down with Pam Moran to discuss her 43 years of being in education.&nbsp;Learn not only how to create a positive and innovative culture in your school district but also why it’s important to have the ability to create teachable moments when things don’t go as planned in the classroom.In this episode, we discuss:What can education learn from pet snakes?“People make mistakes” but what happens after you make those mistakes?Why is it important to focus on the Arts for students of all ages?Why should education change in response to a VUCA world?Why Innovation must be part of the work Educational leaders support – not just strategic and operational work.Innovation / Creativity / InventionHow do you find “teachable moments” in others and in yourselfTimeless LearningAbout our GuestPam Moran Pam is a newly retired or as she says rewired former superintendent – 43 years in education – former science teacher, middle school and high school, middle school associate principal, elementary principal, curriculum director, asst supt and 13 years as a supt – she’s seen just about everything that can be seen in education — but believes that her passion for working with young people and teachers is as strong today as it was the first day on the job.Twitter: @PamMoranWebsite: https://spacesforlearning.wordpress.com/Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyExplore these ResourcesIn this episode, we mentioned the following resources:https://www.cvilletomorrow.org/news/article/30957-dr-pam-moran-named-executive-director-of-statewide/Join our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunesCheck Out More TeacherCast ProgrammingTeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)The <a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Justin Chando from Microsoft Teams and Joey from Flipgrid on the podcast to talk about how to create a seamless digital classroom using collaborative tools found in Office365.In this episode, we discuss:What’s new in Microsoft EDU?#Flipgrid FeverSummer ConferenceWhat’s new in FlipgridBeing a part of the MicrosoftEdu FamilyWhat can teachers expect from Flipgrid in 2018-19?What’s new in Microsoft TeamsThe Microsoft Innovative Educator CommunityCreating a Digital Classroom with MicrosoftEdu and Office365Creating the future with help from the presentWorking with teachers to shape the future of Office AppsWhat is Flipgrid?Created a few years ago in Minnesota, Flipgrid is a video platform that allows students and teachers to share ideas and learn together.&nbsp;Building on the concept of personalized learning, Flipgrid has grown into the goto video learning platform in more than 150 countries.The mission of Flipgrid is to “Empower learners of all ages to define their voices, share their voices, and respect the diverse voices of overs.”In a message heard around the world, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced that Flipgrid would be joining the Microsoft family on June 18.How can I learn More about Flipgrid?The educator community for Flipgrid is VERY active in sharing great resources and providing help and feedback for those who are new to the platform.Flipgrid is the leading video discussion platform for millions of PreK to PhD educators, students, and families around the world. Flipgrid promotes fun and social learning by giving every student an equal and amplified voice on the topics you define!www.Flipgrid.com@Flipgridhttp://facebook.com/flipgridhttp://facebook.com/groups/flipgrideducators/http://vimeo.com/flipgridFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastiTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/MIEAudioYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/MIEVideoShow Notes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/MIESpotlightThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyExplore these ResourcesIn this episode, we mentioned the following resources:The Educators Guide to FlipgridTwitter.com/KarlyMoura<a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we learn how the Conrad Challenge is promoting collaborative, student-centered, real world-relevant learning that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, unleashing students’ potential to create future-defining solutions and a sustainable society for generations to come.What is the Conrad Challenge?Registration is now open for the 2018-2019 Conrad Challenge. Unlike any STEM competition out there, this annual event unleashes the potential of students to leave their mark on the world, using their innovation and entrepreneurial skills to address some of the most pressing global challenges. In its first 13 years, the Challenge has had student participants from more than 70 different countries.The Conrad Challenge invites teams of 2-5 students between the ages of 13-18, along with a coach (who may be a teacher, administrator, business leader, or other adult) to innovate new products and services that address global issues in one of six categories:Aerospace &amp; AviationCyber-Technology &amp; SecurityEnergy &amp; EnvironmentHealth &amp; NutritionSmoke-Free World ― special category for 2018-19 sponsored by The Foundation for a Smoke-Free WorldTransforming Education with Technology ― special category for 2018-19 sponsored by SMART TechnologiesCoaches and judges from the best in business, industry, research and academia worldwide will guide the teams’ innovative ideas. In February 2019, five teams in each challenge category will be chosen as finalists and travel to the annual Innovation Summit taking place April 24-27, 2019 at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.Finalist teams present their innovations before an esteemed panel of judges. Winning teams receive awards, investment opportunities, patent support, business services and scholarships to support the growth of their concepts into real businesses that can make real difference. At the end of the competition, teams maintain ownership of their Intellectual Property.Interested teams should visit the Registration Form and 2018-2019 Conrad Challenge Overview for more information on this year’s competition. Registration will remain open until Friday, October 19, 2018 at [11:59] PM ET. Expert judges will then select semi-finalist teams in each challenge category who will be invited to develop comprehensive business plans for their innovation.America’s Navy is proud to partner with the Pete Conrad Foundation to carry on the shared tradition of discovery, creativity and problem solving. For the fourth year, the Navy will sponsor the Conrad Challenge for and present the annual America’s Navy Gemini Award for Distinguished Innovation in the Spirit of Captain Pete Conrad to the team that best demonstrates the Navy’s characteristics of teamwork, innovation and hard work. Navy subject matter experts will also serve as panel judges, offering feedback based on their professional experience and knowledge in medicine, aviation, cyber technology and engineering.About our GuestsNancy ConradNancy Conrad is the founding chairman of the Conrad Foundation, who produce the annual Conrad Challenge. A former teacher, Nancy has become a recognized leader in transformative education, serving as a featured speaker at national and international conferences. Her presentations include TED Long...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Teaching Matters CEO Lynette Guastaferro on the program to discuss how school districts can improve teacher moral and improve student test scores by building a culture of positive professional learning.In this episode, we discuss:Who is Teaching Matters?Emerging Teacher Leaders ProgramThe importance of collaboration in and out of the classroom between teachers“It’s not my kids … it’s our kids”Culture change starts with leadershipHow to define success when there is a culture shift involvedMicro-credentials“Competency-Based Evidence of Learning”How do you set up a system surrounding micro-credentialsWhy are micro-credentials good for school systems?Why are micro-credentials good for teachers?What is the value of micro-credentials for teachers?What does “good” look like?About our GuestLynette Guastaferro, Chief Executive Officer, has more than 20 years of experience in education. She possesses a unique blend of education, non-profit and private-sector experience. Under her leadership and responding to both research and what is happening in real classrooms, Teaching Matters has quadrupled its reach and spearheaded the design of award-winning, scalable teacher development models designed to improve teaching in over 700 urban schools. Ms. Guastaferro has worked as a classroom teacher, a school-network leader, and a senior management consultant for Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC). At PWC, she led projects to innovate and improve the performance of government and educational agencies. Her work in education led her to Baltimore, where she took a classroom teaching position and designed her school's first technology-based learning support lab for literacy and mathematics. Ms. Guastaferro holds an M.B.A. from Columbia University and a B.A. from Williams College.Links of Interesthttp://teachingmatters.org/abouthttps://www.facebook.com/teachingmatters/https://www.linkedin.com/company/teaching-matters/https://twitter.com/teachingmattersFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyLet’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunesCheck Out More TeacherCast ProgrammingTeacherCast Podcast (<a href="http://www.teachercast.net/tcp"...

In this episode of the of TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome ASCD Author Dr. Ronald Bethetto on the program to discuss his new book What If? Building Students’ Problem-Solving Skills Through Complex Challenges.&nbsp;We wish to thank ASCD for making this show possible.In this episode, we discuss:The problem with waiting for “someday”Innovation – Imagination – CreativityCan you teach creativity?Routine tasks vs. complex challenges,Lesson unplanningHow to get rid of uncertainty in the classroomLegacy challenges,Stop-Think-Do-Learn action principlesHow to take risks in the classroomAnything else you’d like to discuss.About our GuestDr. Beghetto is an internationally recognized expert on creative thought and action in educational settings.&nbsp;He serves as Professor of Educational Psychology, Director of UCONN's Innovation House and Graduate Program Coordinator for the Cognition, Instruction, Learning, &amp; Technology Program in the Neag School of Education at the University of Connecticut.&nbsp;Dr. Beghetto is the Editor for the Journal of Creative Behavior, series editor for Creative Theory and Action in Education (Springer Books), and serves as a creativity advisor for Lego Foundation.His work highlights how making slight changes to existing teaching, learning, and leadership practices can result in transformative ways of thinking and acting.&nbsp;Links of Interesthttp://www.ronaldbeghetto.comASCD Author WebsiteRead Chapter 1Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunesCheck Out More TeacherCast ProgrammingTeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)The <a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome author, director, and producer Doug Keith on the program to talk about how we can teach our students the art of writing long form not just in a single storyline, but across multiple projects.In this episode, we discuss:Why is it important to become a Director if you want to see your original content produced?The importance of being a content creatorIs it important to be a performer first before being a director?Directing your own material vs Directing someone else's materialHow to create materials (blogs, podcasts, screenplays) that attract and keep audience attention.Book: Writing Screenplays that SellHow to create a voice for yourselfCreative Writing ApplicationsThe importance of knowing your audience before you create contentAdditional ResourcesSave the Cat – Blake SnyderWrite Screenplays that Sell the Ackerman Way- William AckermanStory – Robert McKeeScreenwriting software:&nbsp;Final Draft, Movie MagicPublications:&nbsp;Script, Creative ScreenwritingThe secret to every writer's successAbout our GuestDoug Keith has been writing, directing and producing films, sketches, music videos, radio series and books since he was in his teens.&nbsp;Among his credits is the award-winning documentary film, “Embraceable You,” about the culturally diverse but accepting town of New Hope, PA, and an anti-underage drinking public service announcement, created for the United Way of Bucks County, that ran in area movie theaters.&nbsp;He has made his career in the market research industry for almost than 25 years, testing programs and concepts for broadcast and cable TV networks.After completing a degree in journalism at the University of South Carolina, Doug worked as an on-air host, writer and producer in public radio.&nbsp;He went on to complete an MA in Communications at Temple University. Since 1998, he has focused his free time on various aspects of filmmaking, including writing, directing and producing films and music videos.Doug was born and raised in Furlong, PA, just outside Philadelphia.&nbsp;He currently resides in nearby Buckingham, Bucks County, PA.Links of Interesthttp://future2research.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-keith-4140052/Facebook:&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/doug.keith.969?ref=bookmarksFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome author and CEO of the 95 Percent Group, Susan Hall on the program to discuss the importance of Literacy Intervention in the primary grades.&nbsp;Check out Susan’s new book “10 Success Factors for Literacy Intervention: Getting Results with MTSS in Elementary Schools” available from ASCD.In this episode, we discuss:How to support young readers as they develop their literacy skillsWhen parents suspect a reading issue what can they do?Susan advises parents to trust your instinctsAsk questions at school such as “Which reading group is my child in?”Ask about assessments, whether there are small groups for those who are struggling, what systems are in place to assist teachers with small group instruction, etcWhat is the state of literacy in today’s elementary schools?The US is about in the middle of the 37 developed countriesThis just is not good enough – we should be in the top tierWhat should we be doing to help our students learn how to read?Schools need to make early literacy a priority. Teachers need the knowledge and resources to help teach ALL students to read.10 Success Factors for Literacy Intervention:#1 – Students who are getting extra help should be grouped by skill deficit#2 – It’s important to take a few moments to diagnose why the student can’t readParents have the ability to ask for assessmentsDoes my child’s school assess all students with early literacy assessments 3 times a year (like well baby check-ups)?How did my child score?#3 – Use a “Walk to Intervention Model” – When small-group interventions are offered, the best approach is for children to leave their homeroom and be placed in specific skill groups that are shared across the grade level with plenty of instructors.&nbsp;The students furthest behind should be in small groups of no more than 5 students. This is more effective than having 1 or 2 groups in a classroom and the rest of the students working alone during this time.#4 – Use an appropriate assessment to monitor progress1-2 min assessment every few weeks to check to see if students are on progressChart the progress to see if the student is on an effective trajectory to reach benchmark.These progress monitoring charts can be shared with parents#5 – Flood the intervention time with extra help#6 – Use intervention time wiselyThere is an urgency to catch a student up as early as possible#7 – Be aware of what makes intervention time workTeachers need to understand what makes a lesson work (or not work)#8 – Provide teachers with good intervention lessons#9 – Invest in Professional Development#10 – INspect what you EXpectPrincipal walkthroughs during intervention timesBeing an active part of the processAbout our GuestSusan L. Hall, EdD. is Cofounder and CEO of an educational company called 95 Percent Group Inc.&nbsp;The company’s mission is to help teachers and administrators identify and address the needs of struggling readers. 95 Percent Group provides professional development, diagnostic assessments, and instructional materials so teachers have the knowledge base and tools to improve outcomes for struggling...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Stacey Roshan on the program to talk about the power of Video in the classroom.&nbsp;Stacey is a veteran teacher who for the last 7 years has been flipping her classroom through interactive and engaging videos. One of Stacey’s favorite platforms for video is Zoom, a video conferencing application that allows for crystal clear video communication.&nbsp;What I learned in this episode is that Zoom has a fantastic Education platform that can be widely used in K12 schools on every &nbsp;In this episode, you will learn:Bringing Video lessons into the curriculumFlipping the Classroom through videoCreating an environment where the teacher can be with the students and be apart of the learning process and having 1:1 time with studentsHow to offload your lesson to videoRecorded Video vs Live VideoTips for Pre-recorded videosTime: Some videos are better longer, some are better shorter depending on the type of class or assignment.EdPuzzle is a great tool for creating assessments for the videosFormat: Screencasts are great, but it’s important for the videos to be setup so that students are active while watching the video.Where to publish: YouTube / PowerSchool / EdPuzzleDo classrooms today have a need for connecting with other classrooms?Practical uses for video conferencing in the classroomA Survey of Popular Video ApplicationsRecorded VideoScreencastCamtasiaScreenflowScreencastifyScreencast-o-maticVideo EditorsiMovieFinal CutWindows Movie MakerWeVideoLive VideoZoomWhy Zoom?Advantages over other platformsPriceCreating a Curriculum around Video ConferencingAP CalculusCreating Interactive LessonsCreating Lesson PlansRecording VideoEquipmentiPadSnowball MicrophoneUSB Extension CordTeacherCast.net/equipmentSharing Video / Saving VideoPublishing VideoStudent Feedback about interactive curriculumRecommendations for teachers interested in bringing video into the classroom About our GuestStacey Roshan is Upper School Technology Coordinator and Math teacher at Bullis School. She has a keen interest in discovering and bringing innovative tools into the classroom to engage students and personalize instruction. She has spent a lot of time working to flip the mathematics classroom in an effort to shift the culture to a more participatory learning space, focused on relationships and individual student’s needs. Her work on the flipped classroom has been featured in major newspapers such as USA Today, CNN, and The Washington Post and television on PBS Newshour. Stacey aims to empower teachers with ideas and tech tools to enrich and enliven the classroom by engaging learners.Links of InterestWebsite: http://techiemusings.com/Twitter @buddyxoFollow our PodcastThe...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome teacher and author Bethany Petty on the podcast to discuss how teachers are creating engaging and dynamic lessons with technology in their classrooms.&nbsp;Together we discuss Blended Learning, Flipped Learning, Gamification, and her new book Illuminate from EdTechTeam Press.In this episode, you will learn:What is the state of Instructional Technology in today's classrooms?Much easier for students to be creatorsMusic easier for students to use the technology they carry with them“Technology is an awesome tool to enhance learning”Where do teachers start if they are scared to start?Technology is not “one more thing to do” it really is about student learningGreat Educational ResourcesGoogle ClassroomStudent and Parent FeedbackMakes digital teaching easierEasy to share work with parentsEdPuzzleEmbed questions and formative assessment in a videoFlipgridInteractive Video PlatformTeaching students to reflect and provide feedbackFlipped LearningIn-Classroom vs Out of ClassroomHow to Flip your Flipped ClassroomHyperdocs vs Classroom WebsiteBlended LearningUsing Technology purposefully and with a specific intent to enhance learningGamificationAbout our GuestBethany J. Petty is a Christian, mother, wife, full-time high school teacher, adjunct instructor of educational technology, reader, runner, blogger, and coffee junkie. She regularly blogs at Teaching with Technology, where she shares resources, ideas, EdTech tools, tips and tricks, and reflections from her flipped/gamified high school social studies classroom. Petty’s blog was recently listed as one of EdTech Magazine’s 50 K–12 IT Blogs to Read. She was named a finalist in EdTech Digest’s 2017 Awards in the School Leader category and was listed as one of the top one hundred Flipped Learning teachers worldwide in 2017. She was a Spotlight Educator at the 2018 METC conference and was recently awarded the 2018 VFW National Citizenship Teacher of the Year Award.Links of Interesthttp://usingeducationaltechnology.comTwitter @Bethany_PettyFacebookPinterestInstagramFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury <a href="http://www.twitter.com/teachercast"...

What is the value of educational technology in the classroom? Should EdTech companies be spending more time in our classrooms learning how we teach? Or … should they be coming up with new and innovative programs and gadgets for us to be teaching … with?In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we take a look at the ISTE Conference.&nbsp;Joining me on the program are three educators with unique perspectives on not just today's educational landscape, but on how edtech should be used in today's classrooms.&nbsp;&nbsp;We you at the ISTE Conference this year? We would love to hear your thoughts on today's podcast or on how you found this years conference. Please leave us a comment below.In today's episode we discuss:What excited you about ISTE this year?New to ISTE 2018EdTech Advisor Program powered by LearnPlatformStandout Presentations / SessionsHow do you spend the majority of your time at ISTE?What trends did you notice on the show floor or in presentations?Are school district and educator needs being met by today’s edtech marketplace?What can edtech companies do differently to make sure they are meeting the needs of students?What do you hope to see at ISTE next year?Advice for anyone thinking about going to ISTE or another mega-conference in the future?Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestsMichele HaikenCurrently middle school English teacher at Rye Middle School in Rye, New York, and an adjunct professor in the Literacy Department at Manhattanville College, Dr. Haiken has been teaching for the past twenty years.&nbsp;She is the author of Personalized Reading: Digital Tools and Strategies to Support All Learners (ISTE, 2018) and editor of the book Gamify Literacy (ISTE: March 2017). Dr. Haiken is the author of the blog The Teaching Factor&nbsp;and has presented at numerous conferences including the National Council of Teachers of English, ISTE, and many others on topics relating to literacy, technology, and global collaboration. Website:&nbsp;http://theteachingfactor.comTwitter: @teachingfactorDr. Amanda Cadran Director of Implementation, Lea(R)nAmanda Cadran leads the implementation team for Lea(R)n, the creators of LearnPlatform. She uses her 10+ years of classroom teaching, curriculum development and technology director experience to empower educational organizations of all shapes and sizes to organize, streamline and analyze their edtech. Amanda earned her BA and MA from Lehigh University and her PhD from North Carolina State University in curriculum and instruction with a focus on instructional technology. In her work, she most enjoys finding the intersection between research, educational policy and classroom practice. Amanda has worked as a research fellow and consultant with the International Association of K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) and has experience deploying school, district and state-level...

This year at ISTE, I had the amazing opportunity to join 90 educators from across the United States as a member of the first cohort of the LEGO Education Master Educator program.&nbsp;The LEGO Educator Master Educator Program is a network of educators who use LEGO Education solutions in their classroom to inspire their students.On this week's podcast, we share more than a dozen interviews that I had the opportunity to do with these amazing educators and together we share several great ways that you can use LEGO Education products in your classroom.&nbsp;Personally, I have been working with teachers in my district using the Mindstorm EV3 kits and have very much enjoyed watching our students learn some of the building blocks of coding and programming.Learn More about LEGO EducationWebsite: education.lego.comWhat is Lego Education?LEGO Education Master Educator ProgramMeet the Master EducatorsTwitter @LegoFind SupportFind Funding for your ClassroomClassroom Lesson PlansFREE DownloadablesLEGO Education Academy LEGO Master Educator GuestsMathieu Campet School Based Technology Specialist – Wolftrap Elementary School, Vienna, VAMathieu Campet is a STEAM Teacher and School Based Technology Specialist in Fairfax County Public Schools. He studied Early Childhood Education at James Madison University (undergrad), Integration of Technology in Education at George Mason University (M.Ed) and has completed many courses in Education Administration at the University of Virginia. He has been a teacher his whole life. From teaching his little brother how to jump on a bed, giving swim lessons at the local pool, to spending the last 15 years in the classroom (K, 1st, Technology &amp; STEAM), it has been his life’s passion!Brian Lachance School Based Technology Specialist – Keene Mill Elementary School, Springfield, VABrian Lachance is in his 7th year as a school-based technology specialist for Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia. He works with...

This year at the ISTE Conference, I had the opportunity to catch up with John Kao, a man dubbed “Mr. Creativity” by The Economist.&nbsp;John and I first met a few years back and spent some time together during an event in Seattle and I have always been fascinated&nbsp;by not only his point of view on today's&nbsp;educational landscape but by the way he is able to very clearly make sense of many of the things we take for granted every day in our classrooms.This year, John wasn't alone.&nbsp;He brought his son Desi with him to the conference and it was a pleasure getting to meet Desi and as you will hear in this interview, Desi has a very similar sense of creativity and wonder about his surroundings just like his father has.Conversation Topics IncludeWhat is Innovation in 2018?Is Innovation about “doing” or “thinking”What can teachers do to become more innovative?Are teachers the “heros” of innovation?Shat does Innovative Professional Development look like?What is Edgemakers doing in classrooms worldwide?How do we transform some of the issues facing education today?What is Authentic Education?Who is John Kao?John Kao has spent the better part of 30 years creating compelling learning experiences for emerging innovators and entrepreneurs. His eclectic career mirrors the complexity of innovation and entrepreneurship. He was a professor at Harvard Business School, and he taught at the MIT Media Lab and Stanford’s Bowman House. John is the Global Innovation Advisor to the World Economic Forum (WEF), past Chairman of the WEF’s Global Advisory Council on Innovation and an advisor to countries on innovation policy. A best-selling author of books about innovation, John is also a Tony award-winning producer of stage and screen, Yamaha Music’s first “artist in innovation” and a Yale Medical School trained psychiatrist. Each experience has enriched his pedagogical approach. Dubbed “Mr. Creativity” and a “serial innovator” by The Economist, John Kao is a renaissance man and self-styled “innovation activist” whose creativity forms the DNA of EdgeMakers. Follow John on Twitter @johnkaoAbout EdgemakersFounded by John Kao, EdgeMakers is an organization that empowers students to think more creatively and work on problems more effectively, so they become highly skillful innovators and entrepreneurs who can make a difference in the world. The company’s education programs are designed to supply the “missing ingredients” in formal education and close the gaps between current curriculum and future readiness. EdgeMakers believes every student can learn to be an innovator by combining their inherent creativity with a purpose that takes an idea to innovation and drives meaningful change.

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Mike Soules, the President of Corwin and Dr. Julie Smith, Corwin's Senior Director for Visible Learning on the show to discuss Visible Learning Plus, a brand new professional development platform developed based on the research of Professor John Hattie.In this episode, we discuss:Corwin 2018 News and UpdatesWhat is Global Visible Learning?How does Visible Learning plus fit into Corwin's family of programs and services?How is the Visible Learning plus model implemented in schools?What are the key takeaways from Prof. John Hattie’s research that can guide future teacher professional development?How does Prof. Hattie’s research and Corwin’s practices differ from other professional development approaches?What do you see as the most promising aspect of this partnership?Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout CorwinCorwin, a SAGE company, is the premier provider of professional learning products and services that equip educators to improve teaching and learning. Corwin offers print books and ebooks, digital professional development products, institutes, and on-site consulting services for all types of educators at all stages of their careers. Corwin resources are authored by experts on the topics most relevant to you; formatted for hands-on, practical guidance; research-based and peer reviewed for quality; and suitable for professional learning settings and courses in education. Whether you are an administrator leading school reform or a teacher looking for solutions to daily challenges, we are committed to helping you reach your full potential so you can help children reach theirs.About our GuestsMike SoulesMike Soules is President of Corwin, the leading provider of innovative professional services and publications for P-20 educators. Corwin is committed to collaborating with schools, districts and departments/ministries of education to deliver training and tools that build capacity, are evidence-based and have a positive change on instructional practice. Through long-term partnerships with authors, policymakers and associations Corwin sits at the nexus of research to practice and practice to research. Mike is most proud of the talented and dedicated all-star team that help bring Corwin’s work to life every day.Mike has held senior leadership roles at the Channel One Network, Laureate, and Teachscape. The through line of his career has been pioneering unique platforms to provide meaningful and impactful content that educators need and want.He serves as Regent of California Lutheran University, President of the Conejo Schools Foundation, and former Chair of the Ventura County Workforce Development Board. Mike has a B.A. in Political Science and a B.A. in History from the University of California, Los Angeles – Go Bruins!Dr. Julie SmithDr. Julie Smith is the Senior Director of Visible Learning for Corwin/Sage. Her passion and expertise is in implementing system-wide change for districts and school-based leaders and teachers focused on Professor John Hattie’s Visible Learning research. Over her thirty-six years in education, she has served as a teacher, principal, and executive director of elementary schools. Additionally, she has taught at the university level in principal...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with ASCD Author Erik M. Francis about his book “Now That’s a Good Question! How to Promote Cognitive Rigor Through Classroom Questioning.&nbsp;During our conversation, we discuss several ways that teachers can ask thought-provoking questions to their students both verbally and on assessments that allow them to provide a fully thought out answer rather than just a simple yes or no.&nbsp;For more information, please check out www.maverikeducation.com and follow Erik on Twitter at @MaverikEdu12Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestErik M. Francis is the owner and lead professional education specialist for Maverik Education LLC, providing professional development, guidance, and support in teaching and learning for cognitive rigor. He works closely with K–12 schools across the nation developing active and authentic teaching and learning experiences that address the cognitive rigor of college and career-ready standards by challenging and engaging students to demonstrate higher-order thinking and communicate the depth of knowledge. Francis has been an educator for more than 20 years, working as a middle and high school English language arts and math teacher, a site administrator, and an education program specialist in the Title I unit of a state education agency. He is also a featured presenter for the Education Development and Support Program offered through Grand Canyon University.Links of Interestwww.maverikeducation.comTwitter: @MaverikEdu12Learn about the book from ASCDShop ASCD and order the book today!Join the ConversationOur favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media, and in our comments section.&nbsp;This weeks question is:In what ways can you create thought-provoking questions for your students this year?Join our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: <a href="http://www.teachercast.net/voicemail"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome ASCD author Brian Mendler to discuss his new book. Discipline with Dignity, 4th Edition: How to Build Responsibility, Relationships, and Respect in Your Classroom.In this episode, we discuss:Brian dealt with struggles growing up, including a gambling addiction; he is now 15 years in recovery (you can talk about his path to teaching as an intro and how his path influenced his teaching style)General conversation about what causes kids to misbehaveOut of school and in school causesWhat does and doesn’t work to get them back on trackThreats, punishments, and rewards: Why Most Traditional Discipline Methods Don't Work (this is a chapter in the book)How to redirect student behaviorInterrupting misbehavior with good teachingStudent motivationFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestBrian Mendler is a certified K–12 and special education teacher with extensive experience working with challenging students in general ed, self-contained, and inclusion settings. As an adjunct professor at St. John Fisher College in New York, he teaches Behavior Management and Introduction to Special Education.In addition, he provides staff development training for K–12 educators and youth service workers throughout North America with the focus on how to be successful with even the most difficult students.Follow Brian on Twitter @BrianMendlerExplore these ResourcesIn this episode, we mentioned the following resources:Discipline with Dignity, 4th Edition: How to Build Responsibility, Relationships, and Respect in Your ClassroomRead the IntroductionJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Please Support our SponsorLet’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradburyEmail: [email protected] Mail: <a href="http://www.teachercast.net/voicemail"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome ASCD author Robyn Jackson on the program to discuss her new book:&nbsp;Never Underestimate Your Teachers: Instructional Leadership for Excellence in Every Classroom.In this episode, we discuss:How she came to the professionHer experiences seeing teachers be underestimated in their jobs and the impact of that on their craftAny teacher can become a master teacherFeedback mistakes leaders can makeHow to give effective feedbackIf being a master teacher is instinctive … can you teach instinct?Tools for finding the strengths in teachersHow can we help other teachers become master teachers?During the school year?During our pre-service years?After we have become a veteran teacherWhat strategies can be used for teacher motivation if you are not in a leadership position?Advice for educators when seeking a leadership path for themselvesFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout our GuestRobyn Jackson is a former high school teacher and middle school administrator. She is the founder and president of Mindsteps Inc., a professional development firm for teachers and administrators that provides workshops and materials designed to help any teacher reach every student. Jackson is the author of Never Work Harder Than Your Students and Other Principles of Great Teaching, The Differentiation Workbook, and The Instructional Leader’s Guide to Strategic Conversations with Teachers, as well as the how-to guides in the Mastering the Principles of Great Teaching series. Follow Robyn on Twitter @Robyn_MindstepsSubscribe to Robyn's Podcast: School Leadership Reimagined!Explore these ResourcesIn this episode, we mentioned the following resources:Never Underestimate Your Teachers: Instructional Leadership for Excellence in Every ClassroomRead the IntroductionASCDJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on iTunes today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Please Support our SponsorLet’s Work TogetherHost: Jeff Bradbury <a...

This week witnessed a major tremor in the Twittersphere when 10 Million monthly users woke up to learn that Padlet, a popular digital bulletin board,&nbsp;has adjusted their pricing model.&nbsp;What happened after that was the coming together of passionate educators about a much-loved technology product to help each other understand why decisions such as this have to happen and also to provide support and alternative ways of providing outstanding lessons in the classroom.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with&nbsp;CEO Nitesh Goel to discuss the recent price restructuring of Padlet and what it means to educators moving forward.&nbsp;I wish to thank Nitesh for a very open and personable conversation.&nbsp;For the last few months, I have been touting Padlet not only to teachers in my own district but at several regional professional conferences.&nbsp;I hope when listening to the interview you will take the time to hear the beginning, middle, and end of the conversation to get a full understanding of why certain decisions were made and why other decisions were not made.In this episode, we discuss:The history of Padlet and how it has grown over 5 yearsHow does an EdTech company get started?What are teachers first impressions of Padlet?How has Padlet grown over the years?New FeaturesCommentingModified BoardsAudio / VideoDrawingsUnderstanding the new Padlet Pricing PlansFree vs ProLegacy Boards for current usersHow does Grandfathering workHow did Padlet come to the number 3 for their current structureFeedback/Pushback from Teachers about changes to price structure.Social Media Support / Feedback from EducatorsPadlet’s Reaction to Teacher FeedbackIs Padlet considering additional pricing plans?Can Padlet cut features to support a smaller price plan?Would teachers accept a Padlet without a full feature set?How long has this decision been under consideration?Using Data to make difficult decisionsPadlet has more than 10 Million users monthlyAverage Padlets per user?Who has the most Padlet boards in their account?What happens if you delete your Padlet?How much Data can you upload on a single Padlet wall?When should teachers expect additional information/action from Padlet?How many employees work at Padlet to support 10 Million educators?Future plans and new features on the horizon for PadletHow does a teacher purchase/upgrade their Twitter account?What are features available in an upgraded plan?Priority SupportDomain MappingUnlimited PadletsOrganize Padlets in FoldersAd-Free PlatformPurchasing Padlet for Teachers$99/yrPurchasing Padlet for Schools“Padlet Backpack”Unlimited Teachers$1500/yrAccepts Purchase OrdersCommunity Reaction to PadletThis week, there have been several videos and posts produced to support and discuss Padlet.&nbsp;Check these out and please use the comments section below to leave your own thoughts or article links.<a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Tony Skauge and Jamie Candee to showcase how teachers are using Edmentum to design engaging learning experiences for their students.Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyAbout EdmentumEdmentum, Inc., is committed to making it easier for educators to individualize learning for every student through simple technology, high-quality content, and actionable data. Founded in innovation, Edmentum’s powerful learning programs blend technology with individual teaching approaches. Edmentum is committed to being educators' most trusted partner in creating successful student outcomes everywhere learning occurs. Built on 50 years of experience in education, Edmentum programs currently support educators and students in more than 40,000 schools nationwide. For more information, visit edmentum.com.Check out these great resourcesExact Path: https://www.edmentum.com/products/exact-pathStudy Island: http://www.edmentum.com/products/study-islandReading Eggs: http://www.edmentum.com/products/reading-eggs-reading-eggspressCourseware: http://www.edmentum.com/products/coursewareAbout our GuestsTony Skauge, Services Program Manager, EdmentumTony Skauge has worked in the field of education for over 10 years as an award-winning classroom instructor and as an Education Specialist at the Science Museum of Minnesota. He received his bachelor of science degree in Elementary Education from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Tony is currently the Services Program Manager at Edmentum where he worked on the ground with hundreds of schools districts and professional educators from across the country to successfully integrate online and blended learning strategies into the classroom with goal of helping each child be successful.Jamie Candee, President and CEO, EdmentumJamie joined Edmentum in 2005 and began her career with the company in Human Resources, before working her way through nearly every department within the organization—serving as Director, Sales and Service Effectiveness; Vice President, Product Development; Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing; and Chief Revenue Officer during her initial tenure.Jamie rejoined the organization in 2017, to lead Edmentum’s strategic vision and long term growth plan as President, CEO, and Board Director, bringing her successful record of accomplishment as an executive with extensive experience in education technology, private equity, and policy. Jamie was selected by Minnesota Business magazine as one of the 2015 (Real) Power 50, by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal as a 2017 Titans of Technology honoree, and 2017 Ernst &amp; Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist. She sits...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with Technology Integration Specialist Jarod Bormann, author of the book Professionally Driven.&nbsp;Together, we break down the role of professional development in the school district and begin to understand why it is vitally important to every district to have a clear system from which professional development is given.In this episode, you will learn:Why is it important for school districts to constantly rethink their Professional Development strategy?What types of PD work …&nbsp;What types of PD don’t work?When should PD be delivered top-down vs from the ground up?The role of the Tech Coach at various educational levels (classroom, building, district, community)How to think of PD like a CavemanFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network |&nbsp;@TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury |&nbsp;@JeffBradburyAbout Jarod BormannJarod Bormann is a Technology Integration Specialist at the Keystone Area Education Agency in NE Iowa. He received his Masters degree in Instructional Technology from the University of Northern Iowa, and is currently an adjunct professor for the same Masters program. Jarod taught Middle School/High School English for seven years in one of the first 1:1 iPad schools in Iowa. He is an ISTE presenter and was recognized as the 2014 Iowa Safe Schools Educator of the Year. Jarod blogs at bormannbytes.com and&nbsp;professionallydriven.com. An annual presenter at the Keystone KPEC Conference, Iowa Technology &amp; Education Connection (ITEC Featured Speaker), as well as other educational tech conferences throughout the Midwest, he is an ITEC Iowa Board Member and co-hosts the Next Level Learning podcast. Connect with Jarod via twitter @jbormann3Links of Interestprofessionallydriven.comAbout Professionally DrivenProfessionally Driven is a personalized PD model designed to empower every educator in a school district. The model is embedded on three main concepts: growth mindset development, intrinsic motivation, and sustainable autonomy. The book lays out the Why behind these three areas and offers the How-To steps to set up the Professionally Driven model in any school district.Join the ConversationOur favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media, and in our comments section.This weeks question is:In what ways have you found professional development to be helpful in your school district?&nbsp;How did you know that it was being effective, not just for yourself, but for the entire population of teachers?Join our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by&nbsp;commenting on iTunes&nbsp;today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost:&nbsp;Jeff Bradbury&nbsp;@TeacherCast&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="http://twitter.com/jeffbradbury"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with Dr. Ayanna Howard, Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology about Robotics, STEM Education, and her upcoming Keynote at the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC)In this episode, you will learn:What is the difference between Coding and Programming?Why should STEM be included in all subject areas?Can STEM and Coding be included in our Pre-K programs?Where can teachers find great resources to get them started in STEM?Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network |&nbsp;@TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury |&nbsp;@JeffBradburyAbout our Dr. Ayanna HowardDr. Howard has over 13 years of R&amp;D experience covering a number of projects that have been supported by a range of agencies including: NSF, NASA, Procter and Gamble, ExxonMobil, and Intel. Her robotics and assistive technology research, has resulted in over 200 publications and numerous patents. Her accomplishments are highlighted through a number of awards and articles, including highlights in USA Today, Upscale, and TIME Magazine. She was named MIT Technology Review top young innovator, recognized as NSBE Educator of the Year, and a recipient of the Anita Borg Educator Award. In addition to her extensive robotics experience, Dr. Howard’s entrepreneurial experience involves development of a leading genetic algorithm package and Brainsheet, a neural-network optimization package. The IP for both applications were later acquired by larger companies. Dr. Howard holds a degree from Brown University, a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from University of Southern California, and an M.B.A. from the Drucker Graduate School of Management.Links of Interesthttp://zumolearning.com/Twitter @ZyroboticsFacebook&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/zyroboticsYouTube&nbsp;https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz0H8q5JWiVQjD5MC4w-tlwJoin the ConversationOur favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media, and in our comments section.This weeks question is:Question:&nbsp;What were the first steps you took when bringing STEM into your classroom?Please share your experiences in the comments section below.Explore these ResourcesIn this episode, we mentioned the following resources:ZyroboticsCode.orgDaisy the DinosaurTommy the Turtle: Learn to CodeScratch JRJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by&nbsp;commenting on iTunes&nbsp;today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we learn that STEM Education is not just for the K-12 classroom but can also be introduced as young as 2-3 years old.&nbsp;Recently, LEGO Education has released great products aimed at our youngest of learners. On today's podcast, we speak with three educators that not only are bringing these products into their classrooms but are responsible for creating a curriculum that can be used both in the classroom and at home by moms and dads.In this episode, you will learn:How can STEAM Education be brought into the PreK classroom?Is it possible to design a MakerSpace for nonreaders?How can your classroom take advantage of great products from LEGO Education?Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network |&nbsp;@TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury |&nbsp;@JeffBradburyAbout our Guests:The following participating teachers can speak to the importance of STEAM learning in early education. They have been implementing the new LEGO Education STEAM Park product and curriculum into their student’s classrooms and can speak to the students’ experiences with this resource:Kate Leis, Student and Faculty Achievement Coach at Primrose School of Burlington (MA). Kate oversees and maintains standards of excellence with curriculum and instruction school-wide; she was instrumental in developing STEAM Park. Kate Leis works as a Curriculum and Instruction Coach at the Primrose School of Burlington in Burlington Massachusetts. She has worked previously as a public school Kindergarten teacher and with the YMCA in education administration. She graduated in 2013 from Endicott College with a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Special Education.Alicia Carroll, Director of STEM at Boston Public Schools: Alicia has been implementing STEAM Park into her student’s classroom.&nbsp;https://youngsteaminventors.com/Myrna Promousas, Boston Public Schools: Myrna has been implementing STEAM Park into her student’s classroom.About LEGO EducationLEGO Education&nbsp;offers playful learning experiences and teaching solutions based on the LEGO system of bricks, curriculum-relevant material, and physical and digital resources to preschool, elementary, middle school and after school. Solutions and resources from LEGO Education enable every student to succeed by encouraging them to become active, collaborative learners, build skills for future challenges, and establish a positive mindset toward learning.Links of Interesthttps://education.lego.com/en-usInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTubeJoin the ConversationOur favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media,...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we discuss Augmented Reality with Metaverse CEO, Dmitry Shapiro.&nbsp;Together, we explore how Augmented Reality is being used in and out of the classrooms and learn where this amazing technology will be taking us as we head into the future.Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network |&nbsp;@TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury |&nbsp;@JeffBradburyAbout our GuestDmitry Shapiro is CEO and Co-Founder of GoMeta (Metaverse), an augmented reality platform. Before Metaverse, Dmitry founded three companies (in network security, online video, social networking), raised $100 million in venture capital, tried to bring MySpace back from the dead (as CTO of music), and spent four years at Google working on a social graph, content discovery, and identity.The Metaverse AR platform makes it easy for non-techies to create augmented reality. While it has applications across many industries, K-12 teachers were the first to embrace Metaverse, and it is being used in thousands of classrooms across the world.About MetaverseMetaverse&nbsp;is an Augmented Reality platform that makes it easy for teachers and students to create amazing interactive experiences without having to code.Thousands of teachers are building all kinds of interactive curriculum, including educational games, stories, puzzles, challenges, scavenger hunts, and&nbsp;more. The most popular thing teachers are building are Breakout EDU-style challenges in Augmented Reality. Breakout Experiences can be built in under 15 minutes (Here's a tutorial).Not only have teachers been building Metaverse Experiences for their students, they are having students build experiences themselves. Metaverse is great at teaching the logic behind computer programming, allowing students to build things they can see, use, and play with immediately.Links of Interesthttps://gometa.io/Download MetaverseMetaverse TwitterMetaverse Teachers Facebook groupJoin the ConversationOur favorite part of recording a live podcast each week is participating in the great conversations that happen on our live chat, on social media, and in our comments section.This weeks question is:Question:&nbsp;How do you see yourself using Augmented Reality in your classrooms?&nbsp;Join our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by&nbsp;commenting on iTunes&nbsp;today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost:&nbsp;Jeff Bradbury&nbsp;@TeacherCast&nbsp;|&nbsp;@JeffBradburyEmail:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:[email protected]"...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we speak with TED speaker Ted Dintersmith about his movie “Most Likely to Succeed” and ask the question, “what should our students be learning in school?”Follow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network |&nbsp;@TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury |&nbsp;@JeffBradburyAbout our GuestTed DintersmithAfter a 25-year career in venture capital, Ted Dintersmith is now committed to creating national change through initiatives at the intersection of innovation, education, and film. He is the producer of the documentary “Most Likely to Succeed,” and an executive producer of “The Hunting Ground” (both films premiered at Sundance, 2015). Ted served as part of the delegation representing the U.S. at the United Nations General Assembly in a year, where he focused on global education and entrepreneurship; is a partner emeritus with Charles River Ventures; and has served on the board of the National Venture Capital Association, chairing its Public Policy Committee. He earned a Ph.D. in engineering from Stanford and an undergraduate degree in physics and English from the College of William and Mary.About the MovieMost Likely to Succeed is the first national campaign to inspire – and empower – communities across the country to revolutionize their schools for the 21st Century. Through a 50-state tour; community screenings; and a call to action to students, parents, educators, policymakers, and organizations to take a stand for the potential of every young person, we are uniting millions to revolutionize education once and for all.https://www.facebook.com/MLTSfilm/https://twitter.com/MLTSfilmJoin our PLNAre you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by&nbsp;commenting on iTunes&nbsp;today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.Let’s Work TogetherHost:&nbsp;Jeff Bradbury&nbsp;@TeacherCast&nbsp;|&nbsp;@JeffBradburyEmail:&nbsp;[email protected] Mail:&nbsp;http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemailYouTube:&nbsp;http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTubeiTunes:&nbsp;http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunesCheck Out More TeacherCast ProgrammingTeacherCast Podcast (https://www.teachercast.net/tcp)TeacherCast App Spotlight (https://www.teachercast.net/appspotlight)Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)The TechEducator Podcast (<a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we take a look at some pretty awesome “Unplugged EdTech” in the form of interactive whiteboards known as mcSquares.&nbsp;For the last year, I have been a big fan of mcSquares and have actually been using them to teach the EduTriplets how to write their names. The simple yet durable form factor of mcSquares makes it not only easy to use in class, but very easy to store away when not in use.&nbsp;There are several things that you can do each day with your mcSquares from basic writing and drawing activities to complex programming and coding planograms with your students.&nbsp;In this episode, you will learn 3 ways to use mcSquares in the classroom.Elementary SchoolOne of the easiest ways to use mcSquares is as a simple dry erase board.&nbsp;Both version 1 and 2 are built from combining a front and a back form surrounding a sheet of paper.&nbsp;This paper can be interchanged with anything you wish to use as a template for whatever project you are working on.&nbsp;For my children, I like to cut out pages from their favorite coloring book and they can use mcSquares and it’s clear outer marker board to color their favorite characters over and over again.Middle SchoolBecause each square magnetically can stack on top of each other, mcSquares make a great tool in any foreign language class.&nbsp;Verbs have never been able to be conjugated this easily before!High SchoolBecause mcSquares creates a grid of removable, modular tiles on your board, they make the perfect assistant in your coding or programming classroom.&nbsp;Each student can create a block of code (as seen on “Scratch Programming”) and together you can use the squares to learn video game programming.From the ArchivesIn 2016, mcSquares was featured on the TeacherCast Podcast.&nbsp;Check out our recording below.Links of Interestwww.mcsquares.comwww.mcsquares.com/youtubewww.mcsquares.com/facebookhttp://www.twitter.com/mc_squareshttps://vimeo.com/mcsquaresFollow our PodcastThe TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network | @TeacherCastFollow our HostJeff Bradbury | @JeffBradburyWhat are mcSquares?mcSquares are personal, hand held whiteboards that easily snap together on a wall to create a larger, collaborative system that is infinitely flexible and completely customizable.About our GuestAnthony FrancoAlong with founding 7 different successful companies and holding multiple patents, Anthony has held leadership positions in creative direction, feature film post-production, technological architecture, advertising production, enterprise product development, computer aided design, hospitality management, and physical product manufacturing. Most notably, Anthony founded the large, Denver-based consulting firm, EffectiveUI, the world’s first and leading user...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Jill King from the Cartoon Network and Champika Fernando from the Scratch team to discuss why it is critical to be teaching STEM and coding skills to children of all ages.Topics DiscussedHow is the Cartoon Network reaching students worldwide?Where can parents learn more about the Cartoon Network?What is Scratch and how can students learn coding and programming skills?Why is it important that we address the gender gap in STEM education?CSForAll SummitAbout Cartoon NetworkCartoon Network is more than an animation station – it’s a technology-enabled multiplatform entertainment powerhouse that fosters kids’ creativity with engaging shows; mobile, online, console and VR games; toys; and even coding tutorials. Each of these platforms incorporates educational components that support Gen Z’s creativity in 24/7 environments through problem-solving, critical thinking and self-expression. A few examples:Cartoon Network launched&nbsp;Powerpuff Yourself&nbsp;in 2016 to celebrate the reboot of&nbsp;Powerpuff Girls, and in just a year, over 12 million fans have created custom avatarsSince December 2015, kids have built and shared more than 20,000 animations, games and other creations through the&nbsp;We Bare Bears tutorial on MIT’s Scratch.Cartoon Network partnered with the NBA&nbsp;ahead of the 2017 All-Star Weekend in New Orleans for a 3-day mini-camp designed to inspire students to cultivate their storytelling abilities through creative coding.Links of Interesthttp://www.cartoonnetwork.com/https://scratch.mit.edu/http://csforallconsortium.org/ – October 16-17 in St. LouisAbout our GuestsJill King – Senior Vice President, Marketing and Partnerships for Cartoon Network, Adult Swim and BoomerangBio:Jill King is senior vice president, marketing and partnerships for Turner’s Cartoon Network, Adult Swim and Boomerang, as well as their digital brand extensions, including CartoonNetwork.com and AdultSwim.com. In this capacity, King oversees all aspects of consumer marketing for Cartoon Network and Boomerang along with strategic marketing partnerships, event marketing and trade marketing for the portfolio of youth and young adult-targeted networks.She leads the development of innovations that leverage emerging technologies to engage audiences in new ways and offer advertisers first-to-market platforms in today’s dynamic digital environment. She is also instrumental in developing the flagship Adult Swim Upfront trade marketing strategies.Social Accounts: Cartoon Network Twitter: @cartoonnetworkCartoon Network PR Twitter: @cartoonnetPRCartoon Network Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CartoonNetwork/Champika Fernando – Director of Communications, ScratchBio:Champika began her career as an engineer and designer. She's most passionate about supporting people using technology as a tool for self-expression...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with one of the founders of the Padcaster, Josh Apter to discuss educational video production and how your school can create an extremely&nbsp;professional video product using the Padcaster.For the last few months, I have been using the Padcaster not only to upgrade my home studio but to give me a portable solution to record in classrooms and conferences.&nbsp;Simply put, the Padcaster is the perfect solution for any school looking to create morning announcements, live broadcasts, or record athletic events.This fall, Padcaster will be releasing several new products that I think will continue to revolutionize and simplify video production.&nbsp;One of these is the new Padcaster VERSE, a complete solution to turn your mobile phone into a “mobile media powerhouse”. In today's podcast, Josh shows us how the VERSE is not only a dynamic stand and equipment holder for your phone, it also provides additional battery support so you can be on the road and not worry about losing battery in your device.If you are looking to purchase a Padcaster this year, visit&nbsp;padcaster.com/education&nbsp;or email&nbsp;[email protected] is Padcaster?Simply put, the Padcaster is the perfect solution for any school looking to create morning announcements, live broadcasts, or record athletic events.Featured in Apple’s “Your Verse” international advertising campaign for the original iPad Air, as well as the newly released iPad Air 2 “Change” campaign, and Visa’s “Visa Checkout” campaign, The Padcaster is a patented, rugged multifunctional iPad case that transforms the iPad into an all-in-one mobile production studio.&nbsp;The Padcaster enables consumers to shoot, edit and upload video on the fly – or stream live right from the iPad.&nbsp;More than an innovative way to mount an iPad to a tripod, The Padcaster transforms the iPad into an all-in-one production tool. The Company is creating, developing and enabling a new category of convenient and cost-effective professional quality video documentation and production.AccessoriesThe Padcaster box comes complete with the aluminum frame, macro lense, mounting brackets, shotgun microphone, windsock,&nbsp;and dual headphone adapter.&nbsp;For those interested in taking their digital production to the next level, Padcaster offers an Ultimate Studio package that has several great accessories.The Padcaster Ultimate Studio comes withPadcaster Wide LensePadcaster XP-38 LED lightPadcaster Shotgun MicrophoneDual Mic/Headphone adapterPadcaster Stick MicPadcaster Lav MicThree Piece Clamp systemVT-16 Fluid Head TripodPadcaster Green ScreenMini Teleprompter<a...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Mike Soules and Dr. Sonja-Hollins Alexander from Corwin to discuss a recent survey&nbsp;of more than 6300 educators on the state of professional development in schools today.Together, we discuss the 7 standards of professional learning and how they were used to guide today's professional learning environments.Topics discussed on the show includeThe 7 Standards of Professional LearningWhat is Professional Learning?4 Findings of the SurveyTeachers report that leaders in their schools and systems are committed to professional learning.Teachers report that their schools use student achievement data to plan professional learning, but they don't use a variety of data to assess its effectiveness.Teachers do not appear to be deeply involved in decisions about their own professional learning.Teachers report that they are not provided adequate time during the school day to follow up on their professional learning by practicing and applying new skills in the classroom.What role does social media and unconferences play in today's professional learning environment?What does today’s educator need to be successful?About CorwinCorwin, a SAGE company, is the premier provider of professional learning products and services that equip educators to improve teaching and learning. Corwin offers print books and ebooks, digital products, and on-site consulting services for all types of educators at all stages of their careers. Corwin resources are authored by experts on the topics most relevant to education; formatted for hands-on, practical guidance; research-based and peer reviewed for quality, and designed for professional learning.Links of Interestwww.corwin.comhttps://www.facebook.com/corwin.press.5https://twitter.com/CorwinPressAbout our GuestsMike SouiesMike Soules is President of Corwin, the leading provider of innovative professional services and publications for P-20 educators. Corwin is committed to collaborating with schools, districts and departments/ministries of education to deliver training and tools that build capacity, are evidence-based and have a positive change on instructional practice.&nbsp;Through long-term partnerships with authors, policy makers and associations Corwin sits at the nexus of research to practice and practice to research. Mike is most proud of the talented and dedicated all-star team that help bring Corwin’s work to life every day.Mike has held senior leadership roles at the Channel One Network, Laureate, and Teachscape. The through the line of his career has been pioneering unique platforms to provide meaningful and impactful content that educators need and want.He serves as Regent of California Lutheran University, President of the Conejo Schools Foundation, and former Chair of the Ventura County Workforce Development Board. Mike has a B.A. in Political Science and a B.A. in History from the University of...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Rick Fredkin from Eduporium.&nbsp;Eduporium is&nbsp;a marketplace that acts similar to Amazon, yet is focused on providing school districts a direct, purchase order friendly way of bringing in STEM and Makerspace items into their schools.About EduporiumEduporium is a school partner that views technology as a fundamental literacy in the 21st century. We work directly with teachers, schools, districts, libraries, and makerspaces to provide them with meaningful and discounted technologies that enhance experiential learning and help students develop crucial 21st-century skills. Cooperative partnerships help us expand schools’ access to STEAM technologies, increase the affordability of educational tools, and enable us to customize tech bundles and activities for all grade levels. Our services include educator discounts, customizable EdTech bundles, a Lending Library, and a Donation Program – all of which are designed to increase student readiness and simulate real-world challenges.Why is Eduporium&nbsp;Important for your School District?Unlike Amazon and most other online vendors, Eduporium&nbsp;accepts purchase orders which takes hours of time off of administrators and office workers who have to deal with a lengthy paperwork processHow can I find Eduporium?www.twitter.com/eduporiumwww.facebook.com/eduporiumwww.instagram.com/eduporiumhttps://www.snapchat.com/add/eduporiumhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/3099636/www.youtube.com/eduporiumRecorded in 2017

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Eric Li from Khan Academy to discuss LearnStorm 2017, a FREE six-week challenge that helps students build skills and mindsets to start the school year strong.About Khan AcademyKhan Academy is a nonprofit with a mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Today more than 55 million registered users access Khan Academy in dozens of languages from more than 190 countries. Khan Academy’s free online learning resources cover preschool through early college education, including K–12 math, grammar, biology, chemistry, physics, economics, finance, history, and SAT® prep. Khan Academy is the official practice partner for AP. Khan Academy gives teachers tools and data to help their students develop the skills, habits, and mindsets they need to succeed in school and beyond. And it’s all free, for everyone, forever.About our GuestEric Li, LearnStorm Lead for Khan Academy, is passionate about using education &amp; technology to empower students and teachers. He focuses on helping teachers use Khan Academy and plays an extensive role in the LearnStorm program.Links of InterestMindStorm 2017 HomepageTwitter: @khanacademyFacebook: Khan AcademyYouTube: Khan AcademyStart the new school year strong with LearnStorm, a free, six-week challenge that builds mindsets and skills https://t.co/W9f6aWUDwz pic.twitter.com/x32RxDw3t3— Khan Academy (@khanacademy) August 15, 2017Recorded in 2017

On today's episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Kat Kennewell and Phil Grigonis on the program to showcase the amazing Edison Robot from Microbric.About Edison RobotsIn 2014, with only a tiny team based in South Australia, Microbric launched the Edison robot with a bang. The wildly successful Kickstarter campaign hit 524% funding and the popularity of Edison has only grown from there. The highly versatile and easy-to-use robot is now distributed globally and can be found in schools in more than 50 countries around the world.Microbric’s vision for the Edison robot is to create an affordable, comprehensive STEM teaching resource for coding and robotics education for students in years 3 – 9. To support this vision, users of Edison have access to free educational resources and programming apps.The Edison robot can be programmed multiple ways: using pre-set barcodes, EdWare, EdPy and now, EdBlocks.EdBlocks, the newest programming language for Edison robots, is a fully icon-based language that is super easy to use. A drag-and-drop block-based system, EdBlocks is intuitive and fun, even for younger users. Perfect for introducing anyone to programming, EdBlocks is ideal for students aged 8 to 12 years old.Students can then take their programming further with EdWare, a hybrid graphical language, and EdPy, a highly versatile text-based programming language based on Python.Best of all? Access to all programming languages and associated teaching resources is absolutely free.Learn more at www.meetedison.comLinks of InterestHomepageEdBlocksEdBlocks AppFacebookTwitterPinterestInstagramYouTubeAbout our GuestsKat KennewellProduct and Marketing Manager for Microbric, a South Australia-based educational robotics company, Kat has experience working in education, eLearning, and technology. An avid writer, Kat believes the right words can connect people with the ideas they need to make a better world for today and tomorrow.Twitter: https://twitter.com/KatKennewellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katkennewell/Phil GrigonisPhil Grigonis is a Technology Education teacher at Upper Perkiomen Middle School in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.&nbsp;He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems and a Masters in Technology Education.&nbsp;Phil has been teaching for the past three years, and has worked for IBM and Accenture Consulting in previous careers.&nbsp;In addition to teaching, he is the advisor at his school for the Technology Student Association (TSA) and a member of the Technology Education and Engineering Association of Pennsylvania (TEEAP).Check out Phil's Edison Robot Website&nbsp;More about Edison RobotsUnparalleled value-for-money and is supported by free downloadable lesson plans

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Dexter Industries on the program to showcase their new robot called GoPiGo, the world's best-selling Raspberry Pi Robot.&nbsp;After listening to this episode, I highly recommend every teacher take advantage of two great opportunities:A FREE 45-day trial of GoPiGo in your classroom10% off your next purchase of a GoPiGo kit by using the coupon code TEACHERCAST at checkoutAbout Dexter IndustriesDexter Industries, an educational robotics company, develops robots that make learning about&nbsp;technology and programming more accessible&nbsp;to everyone. Dexter Industries is the maker of the world's bestselling Raspberry Pi robots like the GoPiGo, GrovePi and BrickPi.Links of InterestWebsite: DexterIndustries.comTwitter: @DexterIndFacebook: DexterIndustriesYouTubeAbout our GuestLisa Rode is a&nbsp;6th-grade classroom teacher at Kings Glen Elementary in Fairfax County, Virginia.&nbsp;This is her 10th year teaching sixth grade.&nbsp;In 2014, Lisa started a Raspberry Pi after-school robotics club to teach students programming, engineering, and problem-solving skills.&nbsp;She integrates technology and robotics into classroom lessons in&nbsp;addition&nbsp;to an after-school program. Find her on Twitter @roderunnersRecorded in 2017

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Dr. Sam Patterson of My Paperless Classroom and Todd Beard from Microsoft YouthSpark to discuss why Computer Science classes are vitally important for today's&nbsp;students.As technology has become an integral part of people’s daily lives around the world, we’re seeing a growing demand – from students, parents, teachers, governments, and nonprofits – to teach youth not only how to use technology, but also how to create technology to help them become the innovators and drivers of growth and opportunity in their communities. But what does this look like in the classroom? How do educators balance this new charge with other important content requirements?What is Microsoft YouthSpark?Microsoft YouthSpark is a global initiative to increase access for all youth to learn computer science, empowering them to achieve more for themselves, their families and their communities.Website:&nbsp;https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/philanthropies/youthsparkTwitter:@msphilanthropicAbout our GuestsTodd BeardTodd Beard has been an educator since 2001 working with students in kindergarten through adulthood. Graduating from the University of Michigan with a focus in education, math, and language arts, he is an educator passionate about technology in learning. While teaching K-12th-grade technology at the International Academy of Flint, Todd also led education policy initiatives, coached multiple robotics teams, and organized STEM camps. He is excited about collaborating with other professionals that are helping to prepare our students and teachers for the future.Twitter:&nbsp;@TeacherBeardWebsite: www.edutainmentteacher.comSam PattersonSam Patterson EdD is Head Maker Wrangler at Echo Horizon School in Culver City, CA. Dr. Patterson designs innovative tech-rich learning experiences and is author of the book “Programming in the Primary Grades: Beyond the Hour of Code.” His blog MyPaperlessClassroom is one of EdTech reviews “50 must Read Tech Blogs.”Twitter: @SamPatueWebsite: www.MyPaperlessClassroom.comLinks of InterestCheck out these great resources to learn more about computer science for your classroom.YouthSparkhub.comMakecode.comwww.Sphero.com/educationRecorded in 2017

From Wonder Workshop, Dot and Dash are real robots that teach your kids to code while they play. By using one of a dozen free apps and an iPad or iPhone, you can make Dot and Dash sing, dance, and navigate around your house or classroom.Why Dot and Dash?Dash &amp; Dot are real robots that teach your kids to code while they play. Using our free apps and a compatible tablet or smartphone, kids learn to code while they make Dash sing, dance and navigate all around the house. Sensors on the robot mean they react to the environment around them, including your kids.Connect with Wonder WorkshopTwitterFacebookPinterestYouTubeInstagramAbout our GuestCurrently, with 15 years of experience in education, Bryan L. Miller’s roles as a teacher and administrator in private and public education, K-12 education, and higher education has provided him a full scope and understanding of the educational sector and has afforded him unique opportunities in the field.&nbsp;Experiences in curriculum design, professional development, 1:1 implementation, and strategic planning allows him to seamlessly work with all schools, with all needs.As the Founder of #TopTechEDU, Bryan has been provided opportunities to travel across the world, work with government officials in education from other countries, and speak and keynote at conferences and schools on his favorite topics which include educational toys, tools and resources, virtual reality, student voice and choice, and many other topics built around emerging technologies in education. He is seen by the educational community as a thought leader and influencer who can bring transformative change and excitement to learning.&nbsp;Bryan truly loves the experiences he receives when he meets educators and students throughout his travels, and even makes time to pop into a classroom to play on the floor with students.&nbsp;His passion for being a teacher has remained with him always.Recorded in 2017

On this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome the Hardcore Closer Ryan Stewman on to discuss how he went from high school drop out to being a multi-time best selling author and entrepreneur.About RyanRyan Stewman, CEO and Founder of Hardcore Closer and Break Free Academy, is a 4x best-selling Author, Motivational Speaker, Sales Coach, Podcast Host, Blogger and all around Entrepreneur. He’s also a regular contributor to Forbes, Entrepreneur, Addicted2Success, Good Men Project, Lighter Side of Real Estate, Huffington Post, and more.Ryan is best known for consulting with alpha personality business owners on rapidly growing their sales through the use of strong marketing and advertising. With his no BS, ‘take action’ approach, Ryan has been able to help high income and high net worth performers make adjustments in their businesses that unleash windfall profits. In the day and age of sales trainers advertising their success by bragging about the private jets and expensive cars they’ve been able to purchase themselves, Ryan prefers to brag about the mansions and exotic cars his clients have been able to purchase through the utilization of his teachings. His programs have propelled numerous clients from 5 and 6 figure incomes to 7 figure a year earners, and he has a new group he’s working on each year in his top tier program “The Tribe”.It doesn't matter if you are selling cars, homes, financial services or consulting, Ryan’s sales mastery can help you generate higher quality leads, increase your closing ratios, and show you how to charge premium fees for the items you sell.Follow Ryan on his Social NetworksWebsitehttp://www.HardcoreCloser.comTwitter@ryanstewman@HardcoreCloserFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/HardcoreCloser/https://www.facebook.com/realryanstewmanYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/user/ryanstewman

On May 2, 2017, I had the privilege of being invited to attend the #LEARNWHATSNEXT keynote produced by Microsoft. The first of its kind during Microsoft Satya Nadella's tenure as CEO, the keynote revolved around education and what Microsoft thinks the classroom of the future should look like.More than 20 educators from across the world representing Pre-K through University studies were invited to attend and meet with representatives from the Education team to share their thoughts about how this new direction for Microsoft can be implemented in their classrooms.Establishing a Laser Focused Philosophy for the FutureThe keynote started off with Nadella telling the story of how his grandfather started his journey into education and helped his father become an educated man.&nbsp;It was a powerful story. “Talent is everywhere, but the opportunity is now”.&nbsp;“Today's event is about education and technology . . . more importantly, it is about empowering the students today to create the world of tomorrow.”Throughout the opening remarks, Nadella kept referring to Microsoft's top priorities on education.&nbsp;The concept of teachers spending less time focusing on technology and more time doing what they love is a powerful example of the new direction that Microsoft and it's products will be headed in the future.One key to Nadella's speech was the focus on making sure that all learners are brought into the conversation.&nbsp;A Focus on students with Dyslexia and students who struggle with reading and writing is clearly at the heart of Microsoft future.It was very clear after spending 2 amazing days with the team from Microsoft Education that this wasn't just a product launch, rather it was a philosophy launch.&nbsp;The motto of Nadella and the entire Microsoft team is clear now more than ever.Windows 10 SThis summer, a new education-focused operating will be launched called Windows 10 S.&nbsp;What does the S stand for?&nbsp;Some say Safety, Security, Simplicity, or perhaps Streamlined.&nbsp;As it was described at the keynote the S was added because it adds a little bit of Soul to the Windows experience.Windows 10 S essentially puts a safe and secure shell on an already powerful and robust Windows 10 environment.&nbsp;This means students will experience better battery, better browsing, and a much faster experience logging into their devices.&nbsp;By default Windows 10 S actives the powerful Edge web browser that has also received some notable upgrades such as a Tab Preview Bar and the ability for users to use inking technologies to write and annotate directly on websites and videos.Learn more about the new Windows 10 S HereNew Devices For All AgesNew Laptops Starting at $189There were two big announcements about hardware.&nbsp;The first was the addition of several inexpensive students focused laptops starting at just $189.&nbsp;All of these PC's feature Windows 10 S and a dynamic touch screen experience.To bring these devices to market, Microsoft teamed up with Acer, ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Samsung, and Toshiba.Surface LaptopIn addition to the slate of inexpensive touch screen devices, Microsoft closed the keynote with a brand new device called the Surface Laptop.&nbsp;Starting at only $999, the Surface Laptop completes and compliments a very successful line of Windows 10 devices that include the Surface Pro, Surface Book, and Surface Studio.&nbsp;The Surface Laptop provides 14 hours of battery on it's 7th generation Intel Core Processor...

On today's episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we take a look at the topic of the Gender Gap in STEM Education. For more information on this topic, please visit MakeWhatsNext.com.&nbsp;I would like to thank Microsoft Philanthropies and Microsoft Education for helping to set this episode up.What if she could be the one to find the cure, crack the code, or invent something that has the potential to save lives? When we encourage girls to pursue science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), we double the potential to solve problems. If she stays in STEM, she could be the one to change the world.Recent research shows that, on average, only 25% of tech jobs are held by women. If we really want to close the STEM gender gap, we must start early. In this conversation, join current and veteran classroom educators, who share concrete tips and best practices for encouraging girls’ interest in STEM subjects and helping them to persevere once they start down that path.About our GuestsTracy Immel Kennedy&nbsp;Tracy Immel Kennedy brings passion, innovation, and education experience to her role as Director of Marketing for YouthSpark, a Microsoft Philanthropies initiative focused on providing access to computer science education for youth most at risk of being left behind. Combining over 20 years of marketing experience with her passion for teaching and building human capacity, Tracy has a unique background that bridges both the public and private sector.As a consultant, she has worked with governments, schools, NGOs, and companies to effectively integrate technology into teaching and learning. She has personally delivered professional development to over 5,000 educators, trainers, and education leaders and has been a featured presenter and blogger on the topic of building educator capacity.&nbsp;At Microsoft, Tracy developed professional development opportunities for educators and created a Training Provider program that helped scale reach to hundreds of thousands of educators globally.Today, Tracy is using her unwavering belief that all people should be valued, respected, and have the opportunity to live meaningful, productive lives to help inspire and engage young people in the opportunities that computer science education can enable.Denise Cathryn SpenceDenise Spence has been an educator for over 22 years. She has earned her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, emphasis in Instructional Technology. Over the years, Denise has earned the following IT certification credentials: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, Adobe Certified Associate in Dreamweaver and Microsoft Office Specialist in Word/PowerPoint/Excel/Outlook. Her accomplishments include being selected as 1 of 3 finalists for Lee County's Teacher of the Year in 2000; she was the 1st ever Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year for Lee County in 2006; she was named Certiport's Global Summit's Teacher of the Year for 2010. Plus, Denise was a 2011 and a 2012 finalist for the Microsoft Innovation Forum.&nbsp;For her leadership in providing college and career related information technology training, Denise was asked to be a Faculty Champion for the Microsoft Imagine Cup and was selected to be an Adobe Education Leader. For her impact on the business community, Denise was selected as a finalist for the Fort Myers Greater Chamber of Commerce – Women in Business – Apex Award in 2011. Recently, she was nominated in the Education category, for The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Celebration of Business &amp; Tourism Chrysalis Awards 2015 &amp; 2016 and Denise was selected as the winner of the Inaugural Southwest Florida Regional Technology Partnership Women in Technology Award for...

On this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with Microsoft Product Manager, Matt McGinnis to learn about Microsoft School Data Sync, the powerful free application that allows school districts to sync their student data directly from their Student Information System.&nbsp;If you are an IT Director or a Director of Technology, this is certainly the perfect show for you.During the show, Matt walks us through a typical school situation where&nbsp;School Data Sync is being used to create a seamless path from a SIS through a new application called Intune for Education so that teachers can have accurate class rosters, up to date OneNote Class Notebooks, and a dynamic and student-centered learning environment using the new Microsoft Classroom.For more informationhttp://www.microsoft.com/educationhttp://sds.microsoft.comhttps://aka.ms/sdsconfirmationhttps://aka.ms/sdsconfirmationAbout&nbsp;Microsoft EducationMicrosoft Corporation is an American multinational corporation headquartered in Redmond, Washington, that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports and sells computer software, consumer electronics and personal computers and services. Its best known software products are the Microsoft Windows line of operating systems, Microsoft Office office suite, and Internet Explorer web browser. Its flagship hardware products are the Xbox game consoles and the Microsoft Surface tablet lineup. It is the world’s largest software maker measured by revenues. It is also one of the world’s most valuable companies.About the MIE Spotlight Series PodcastThe&nbsp;MIE Spotlight Series&nbsp;is a cobranded educational podcast produced in collaboration between the&nbsp;TeacherCast Educational Broadcasting Network&nbsp;and&nbsp;Microsoft Education. Hosted by&nbsp;Jeff Bradbury, the MIE Spotlight series focuses on innovative thinking and teaching that incorporates&nbsp;cutting edge&nbsp;technology being deployed in classrooms.&nbsp;For more information on the Microsoft Innovative Educator program, please visit:&nbsp;http://education.microsoft.comSubscribe Today!Website:&nbsp;http://www.TeacherCast.net/MIESpotlightiTunes:&nbsp;http://www.TeacherCast.net/MIEAudioYouTube:&nbsp;http://www.TeacherCast.net/MIEVideo

On today's episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I welcome educator Dan Rezac from Tynker.com on to discuss STEM Education and how Tynker is offering educators a FREE professional development opportunity called the Blue Ribbon Educator Program.What is the Blue Ribbon Educator Program?If you are an educator interested in learning more about STEM education and are either currently working with students in a Computer Science program, or interested in starting a coding based program, the Blue Ribbon Educator Program&nbsp;is perfect for you.&nbsp;To apply check out their website today!Applications will close April 20th, 2017. You will be asked to:Create a 1-minute video PSA with the theme “It's time to go beyond.” How do we make coding in schools an everyday literacy and practice?Be available for Premium Training on Friday, May 12th from 11 am – 3:30 pm ET. This online training, presented by coding masters, is designed to hone your skills as an advanced coding teacher.Learn More About Tynker TodayWebsite:&nbsp;https://www.tynker.comBlue Ribbon Educator Program:&nbsp;https://www.tynker.com/school/blue-ribbon/Twitter:&nbsp;https://twitter.com/gotynkerFacebook:&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/GoTynkerYouTube:&nbsp;Subscribe Today!#BeyondTheHour

On today's podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Elementary Principal and ASCD Author Jennifer Schwanke to discuss her new book called “You're the Principal! Now What? Strategies and Solutions for New School Leaders.”I met Jennifer Schwanke on a recent ASCD book chat and was completely amazed at how similar the story of a new administrator can be to the story of a new Tech Coach.&nbsp;In most situations, you may be the only one in your position in a building, you have to keep your confidence with little opportunity to lean others for support, and you have to remember that no matter what happens during the day, it is the relationships you forge that will ultimately create a successful and long-lasting career.You Must Have Your Head Examined To Be A PrincipalOne of the things that amazed me about my conversation with Jennifer Schwanke was the constant reminder that, quite often, leadership is pointed out by others.&nbsp;Jen is not the first guest on the show who told me she had little to no ambitions to be an educational leader and instead it was only through a mentor that she found her calling to “the big desk.”&nbsp;Recently, Jennifer Schwanke wrote a rather interesting post about the fact that in order to be an administrator you might first need to have a little bit of brain surgery.Now that you’re a principal, you’ve lost half your brain!Click To TweetWho is Jennifer Schwanke?Jen Schwanke began her career as a language arts educator eighteen years ago. She has worked at both the elementary and secondary level as a teacher and administrator. A graduate instructor in educational leadership, she has written frequently for literacy and educational publications and presents at literacy and leadership conferences. She is the author of the book, You're The Principal: Now What? Strategies and Solutions for New School Leaders.Connect with JenniferTwitter @jenschwankeBlog: jenschwanke.com&nbsp;How Can I Find The Book?Learn more on ASCD.orgTable of ContentsChapter 1Online Study GuideTopics Covered in the Podcast:Educational LeadershipWhat is it about being a school leader that people find most challenging? The most enjoyable?What are some inherent character traits important for school leaders? What are some traits that can be learned with time and practice?You're Not Alone<li...

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with California educator and SMART Exemplary Educator Denesa Menge to discuss how she has created a fully immersive&nbsp;and interactive learning environment for her students, with the help of SMART Technologies.One of the most important things you can do with your students is to provide them an engaging, interactive learning environment.&nbsp;When students are active, they become attentive learners.&nbsp;By using tools such as SMART Interactive Boards along with SMART Amp software, students can become immersed in a different type of learning.About Danesa&nbsp;MengeDanesa Menge is a seventh and eighth-grade English language arts teacher at Oakdale Junior High School. She is passionate about learning and technology and shares that love with her students and fellow colleagues across the globe. Danesa holds a Master’s of Science in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. She is a SMART Exemplary Educator, a Google Certified Innovator, NovoAmbassador, and Flipped Learning international Ambassador.&nbsp;Teaching is not her job, it’s her passion. Getting better it, that is her job.Twitter:Twitter.com/JepsonWebsite:edtechmenge.blogspot.comYouTube:Youtube.com/user/finesse026Learn how @SMART_TECH can be used in your classroom to create an interactive learning experience for your students.Click To TweetSMART TechnologiesConnect students and their devices to a workspace with all your lesson contentSMART amp brings the whole class, groups of students or individuals together in a shared space to work on projects, add multimedia content and instant message. This is all done using student devices and while tracking contributions from each student, so educators have insight into who is contributing what.Why SMART AMP?Students work together in the collaborative workspace.Contribute to the workspace from anywhere, at any time.Provides the same experience on tablets, laptops and interactive displays.Take over the workspace at any time to demonstrate and describe work to students.Import SMART Notebook lessons, view them in full screen, export pages and write over them.Import your Google Classroom class lists directly. They update automatically.Links and ResourcesWebsite:https://www.smartamp.com/Twitter:https://twitter.com/smart_techYouTube:&nbsp;https://www.youtube.com/user/SMARTClassroomsSMART Professional Development:&nbsp;https://training.smarttech.com/** TeacherCast would like to thank SMART Technologies for sponsoring this podcast **

Is your school district looking to make a change in it's Learning Management System, or Student Information System?&nbsp;Are you tired of getting recommendations based only on reading twitter and edtech blogs?In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with Michael Winters and Molly Levitt from EdSurge to discuss their new service called EdSurge Concierge.&nbsp;Recently released and made available to school districts across the country, EdSurge Concierge allows School Districts a simple and personal, 1:1 consultation to speak with one of their technology integration experts to help you find exactly the application you need and put you in contact with that company to help you and your team provide the best learning environment for your students.According to EdSurge.com:EdSurge&nbsp;Concierge&nbsp;is a free service that helps schools find the right technology to support their learning goals. Concierge reduces the time needed to find a solution that fits every school's unique challenges.About our GuestsMichael Winters has served as EdSurge's manager of the Edtech Index for the past 2.5 years. In that capacity, he helps teachers sort through the world of edtech tools to find the tech that works for them. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia (go Hoos!)Molly Levitt is EdSurge's Community Manager, connecting educators around the US and sharing the great work that they're doing. She is a former elementary teacher, edtech startup founder and a graduate of Boston College and the Harvard Graduate School of Education.Stay In Touch With EdSurgeEdSurge is one of my favorite places to learn about edtech trends and news.&nbsp;With over 90,000 followers on Twitter, it absolutely should be on your “must follow” list.Website: www.EdSurge.comTwitter: @EdSurgeRecorded in 2017

Welcome to the TeacherCast Podcast. In this episode, Jeff sits down with the Executive Director of CSNYC, Michael Preston and Superintendent Jason Eitner to discuss why students of all ages should&nbsp;have a Computer Science infused curriculum.About CSNYCCSNYC is a nonprofit founded in 2013 to ensure that all of New York City’s 1.1 million public school students have access to a high-quality computer science (CS) education that puts them on a pathway to college and career success. To build thriving ecosystems for CS education in NYC and nationwide, CSNYC develops programming across four key areas: community development, teacher pipelines, industry engagement, and research. Together, work in these areas supports our partnership with the City of New York in Computer Science for All (CS4All): a 10-year initiative to bring CS to all 1,700 NYC public schools.Early access to high-quality opportunities to study CS is critical to breaking down gender, racial and social barriers in the tech sector and related fields. Until recently, CS education was available to only a small number of NYC students, primarily enrolled in selective high schools. In 2012, the NYC Department of Education, with support from CSNYC founder and tech investor Fred Wilson, launched the Academy for Software Engineering (AFSE), the city’s first CS-themed public high school available to all students regardless of academic background. A year later, it was followed by the opening of its sister school, the Bronx Academy of Software Engineering (BASE), and the launch of the Software Engineering Program (SEP), which provides middle and high schools with a multi-year sequence of CS courses. These efforts were tied to the city’s large-scale strategy to encourage the growth of new industries and new jobs, and to ensure that education, both in K12 and at the college/university level, would properly prepare individuals for these new opportunities.CSNYC was formally launched in 2013 to provide funding and guidance to these initiatives and to support a portfolio of CS education programs managed by other organizations. These programs build capacity in schools by training teachers from other subject areas to teach CS and by recruiting volunteer software engineers to teach in classrooms. In its first three years, CSNYC supported programs reached 150 public schools and 12,000 students citywide—a demonstration that CS was possible for all students if their teachers were provided with high-quality professional development, curriculum, and support.With Mayor de Blasio’s announcement of the 10-year <a...