Digital Learning Today

Latest Episodes:

College Contact: Supporting Students & Families through the College Admissions Process Mar 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Digital Learning Today Podcast, Jeff welcomes Sophie Smith and Leah Guesman from College Contact on the podcast to learn about the current state of the college admissions process. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

What is the current state of the College Admissions Process?
Has the process changed at all in the last 10+ years?
What is the current process for students to apply for their colleges?
What advice do you have for students applying for college?
What advice do you have for teachers interested in helping prepare their students for the application process?
How did the idea of College Contact come about?
Initial Success?
The use of Social Media to gain traction in the community.
Going from a Concept to a Business?
Going from College Student to CEO.
Standing up as a CEO at EdTech Companies.
Meeting and Working with School Districts
How can a School District reach out to College Contact?
How can a Student reach out to College Contact?
What do you hope the future of the College Admissions process looks like?

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About our Guest:

Sophie Smith

Sophie Smith, 23, is the founder and CEO of College Contact, a startup aimed at transforming postsecondary advising. Originally from Jupiter, Florida, she graduated from the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce in 2023 with degrees in Marketing and Information Technology. The idea for College Contact was sparked in her UVA dorm room during the COVID-19 pandemic, following the viral success of one of her TikTok videos. This led to hundreds of emails from high school students, prompting Sophie to create a solution for better postsecondary advising. Inviting co-founder Leah Guesman to join forces with her in 2023, Sophie & Leah won all three UVA pitch competitions and secured a $1.025M seed round after graduation. College Contact, now a TechStars portfolio company based in Austin, Texas, has grown to include over 100 college mentors and four full-time staff. Sophie's achievements include winning Student Entrepreneur of the Year by the Charlottesville Business Innovation Council and speaking at the Tom Tom Festival in 2024.

Leah Guesman

Leah Guesman, 23, is co-founder and COO of College Contact. She is originally from Los Altos, California and graduated from the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce in 2023 with degrees in Marketing & Economics. She has always had a passion for equity in education. She served as a member of site council during high school to improve equity across student groups, provided virtual tutoring to English language learners during the pandemic, and joined College Contact as one of the platform’s first mentors. When Sophie invited her to come on as COO in 2023, she was thrilled to be able to pursue her interests in both business and education. Her favorite part of her job now is developing partnerships with nonprofits and high schools to expand access to College Contact mentors.

About College Contact

College Contact was founded in Sophie's UVA dorm room in early 2020 when a TikTok video she posted went viral. Soon after, thousands of students emailed Sophie asking for 1:1 application assistance. As the demand for affordable and relatable college counseling grew, Sophie built a team of current undergraduates around the company to serve the high schoolers who needed more application support. Sophie brought on Leah Guesman as a college mentor in early 2021. Together, Sophie and Leah spent over 150 hours individually helping students achieve postsecondary success. As the business continued to grow, Sophie invited Leah to be a co-founder. After Sophie and Leah graduated from the University of Virginia in May of 2023, the duo hired Joe McGonnigal to manage the recruitment, onboarding, and logistical side of their growing mentor network. Now a fully-funded startup, this team of young entrepreneurs is on a mission to provide their full-time support to high school students across the country. Since inception, College Contact has served 2.5k students using our unique near-peer model.

About College Contact:

College Contact is a college and career readiness platform that matches high school students with actively enrolled undergraduate students for near-peer postsecondary advising. With our easy to use software, D2C high school students, and B2B school districts get access to our proprietary matching algorithm, curriculum, and 100+ undergraduate mentors from 60+ different universities. Since our founding, College Contact has successfully served 2,500 students across the country by helping them gain admission to 150+ universities. 86% of our students land a spot at their favorite school. We are seed funded and started our first pilot program with a school district in California.

Links of Interest

Website: https://www.yourcollegecontact.com/
Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/collegecontact

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Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
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Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.com)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

How Can We Support Student Innovation Through Authentic and Meaningful Feedback? Feb 27, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Digital Learning Today Podcast, Jeff welcomes Carolyn Sloan, Dr. Lindsay Kwock Hu, and Dory Weiss on the program to discuss ways that we can provide students with meaningful authentic feedback. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

Providing Targeted Feedback to Students

How to motivate students
- Project-Based Learning - Getting students interested in something that they enjoy doing.
- Giving students freedom based on a common rubric
- Look out for the #SpringSquirmies
- Don’t forget to “check-in” with students from time to time.
The Importance of students having the opportunity to self-assess and judge their work.
- Should we give students a choice of how they can share their work?
How to make independent learners
How to provide feedback to students to help and support their progress in learning.
How can we support our students at home to become confident in their studies?

Books Mentioned on the Podcast

Beautiful Opps by Barney Saltzberg

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About our Guest:

Carolyn Sloan

Carolyn Sloan is a distinguished author, educator, composer, and entrepreneur whose dedication to the arts and education has enlightened and inspired young minds for years. With a unique flair for breaking down complex concepts into child-friendly narratives and interactive activities, she has penned four critically acclaimed, award-winning books that have been pivotal in introducing both children and adults to the vast world of music and founded an award-winning EdTech Company, set to impact children ages 5-12 as well as the adults who care for and educate them. TeachMe TV®, Ms. Sloan’s new EdTech and media company addresses specific inadequacies in children’s learning products by providing learning experiences that are process-focused, and designed to increase student agency across disciplines. These process-oriented learning activities embedded with a metacognitive approach result in higher reading levels, more consistent academic performance, and overall better student engagement, by providing students with tools and strategies for learning. TMTV’s newest initiative is an AI Study Buddy able to converse in 26 different languages that establishes a learning relationship with the student, prompting them to think and reason. By honing self-awareness through reflective practice and offering targeted feedback, students develop better learning habits, higher levels of engagement and generally exhibit more self-confidence and stamina to manage both academic and social difficulties. TeachMe TV® has already garnered recognition for its outstanding content, with 5 Telly Awards in media, animation, and music, The EdTech Honor Award for Cool Tool, 2023, and the Digital Education Awards for notable Start-ups 2022 & 2023 stand as proof to the platform’s excellence and innovation. Ms. Sloan lives in Brooklyn, NYC with her family. Links of Interest

Lindsay Kwock Hu

Dr. Lindsay Kwock Hu is dedicated to empowering educators and students alike through innovative solutions and transformative practices. With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades, Dr. Lindsay demonstrates a commitment to innovation and impact in education through her roles as a teacher, administrator, professor of education and independent consultant. Currently, Dr. Lindsay serves as Lead Consultant + Owner of a portfolio of impact-focused education projects, pioneering innovative tailored solutions to teacher support and student learning. In October 2023, Dr. Lindsay began building Cleary, an early-stage software solution that leverages generative AI technology, providing real-time formative feedback on student writing. Early experiments have revealed crucial findings, including the discovery that students are motivated by explicit feedback and guided discourse, not necessarily gamification practices. A prototype is currently in the works. In 2021, Dr. Lindsay’s commitment to helping students develop the skills-of-the-future led her to build the Lead-To-Learn© experience, an experience that empowers secondary students to collaboratively tackle community-based problems, culminating in the implementation of a real-world project. Most notable, she raised $37,000 in funding to bring this experience to local South Los Angeles high schools. This experience has resulted in tangible improvements to student attendance, reduced tardiness, and expanded course enrollment. Her commitment to ensuring teachers have access to high-quality professional learning opportunities is also a core part of her consulting work. At Watts Learning Center Middle School, she led the development of a professional learning community, redesigning a teacher observation and feedback cycle that focused on improving student writing. In under a 4-month period, pre- and post- writing assessment data revealed a 30% performance increase in student writing. Dr. Lindsay lives in Los Angeles with her husband Mike, and their three young children Sloane, Owen and Axel. Links of Interest

Dory Weiss

Dory J. Weiss is the founder of Brooklyn Reads, a company that specializes in children's literacy. Since 2005, Dory has engaged in working with students to help support their education. Dory grew up in Brooklyn Heights and attended Saint Ann’s School. She went on to earn a BS in Communication from Northwestern University, double majoring in theater and history. Dory worked at Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn for five years in various positions at the middle school while earning her masters degree in Developmental Psychology from Teacher’s College at Columbia University, and her MSEd from Bank Street in Literacy and General Education. Many of her students have successfully gone on to the high schools and colleges of their choice. Dory has the honor of serving on the board of the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue, and lives in Brooklyn Heights with her family. Links of Interest

https://www.brooklynreads.com/

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Let’s Work Together

Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
Email: info@teachercast.net
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Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.com)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

How Can You Move the Needle of Innovation in Your School District? (Featuring Matthew Joseph) Jan 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes podcaster, author, and Digital Learning Leader Matthew Joseph on the podcast to discuss why it’s important not only to have a clear district vision for technology integration but a clear plan for how Instructional Coaches will play a pivotal part in executing that plan. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

FETC Conference 2024
How to create a culture of Digital Learning in central office
How to support your plan through Instructional Coaching
Building a story through data collection

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About Dr. Matthew X. Joseph:

Author of: Power of Connections (Code Breaker Publications), Modern Mentor, Reimagining Mentorship in Education (Times 10 Publications), and Power of Us Dr. Matthew X. Joseph has been a school and district leader in many public education capacities over his 27 years in the field. Experiences such as Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation, elementary school principal, classroom teacher, and district professional development specialist have provided Matt incredible insights on how to best support teaching and learning. These opportunities have led to two books, nationally published articles, and opportunities to speak at multiple state and national events. His master’s degree is in special education, and his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is from Boston College. Throughout his career, Matt focused on what is in students’ best interest and pushing the limits to achieve excellence in schools. He is an instructional leader continually looking for student and school improvement while building community and continued teacher improvement. He is passionate about building a collaborative school culture, creating a school of learners utilizing 21st-century instructional tools, and developing student voice.

Links of Interest

Website: https://xfactoredu.org/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/XFactorEdu
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XFactorEDULLC

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Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

Let’s Work Together

Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
Email: info@teachercast.net
Voice Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemail
YouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTube
iTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunes

Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net

FETC 2024 – A Conversation with Jennifer Womble Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to "Digital Learning Today," a brand-new podcast for educators and educational leaders interested in building a culture of standards-based and future-ready digital learning classrooms in their school districts. Each week we will look at how we can best equip and support our teachers with the skills, knowledge, and professional development needed to help our students become college and career-ready through the development of innovative teaching spaces and dynamic planning.

On this week's episode, we sit down with FETC Conference Chair Jennifer Womble to learn more about this year's conference.

For more information, please visit FETC.org and follow the hashtag #FETC.

If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

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Jeff Bradbury | @JeffBradbury
TeacherCast | @TeacherCast

Join Our PLN

Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

Let’s Work Together

Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
Email: info@teachercast.net
Voice Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemail
YouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTube
iTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunes

Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net

95 Phonics Core Program: Unlocking the Power of Literacy for Every Child May 10, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Office for 95 Percent Group on to the program to discuss 95 Phonics Core Program® is a K–5 phonics program taught to the whole class within the Tier 1 reading block. It is evidence-based, proven to meet ESSA Level 1 criteria, and evidence-aligned with the science of reading. The program builds critical phonics skills through explicit, systematic, and cumulative instruction that meets students where they are and gives them the core phonics knowledge they need to succeed. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

What is 95 Phonics Core Program?
- How does it work?
- How will it support student success in the classroom?
- Where can we learn more about it?
- What do parents say about the program?
What is the 95 Percent Group?
- What is the mission of the 95 Percent Group?
The Science of Reading:
- What it is and What it Isn’t
- Phonics Core Program/The 95 Percent Ecosystem
What is One95 Ecosystem?
- Why is it important to integrate professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system?
- How are schools and districts that you work with tapping into this ecosystem for their classrooms?
What is the Science of Reading?
- What are some of the myths and misconceptions about the Science of Reading?
Where can teachers and school districts learn more?

About the 95 Percent Group

95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 literacy ecosystem integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. https://youtu.be/qspqq4wHq6E

What is the One95 Literacy System?

Explicit and systematic literacy instruction, backed by the science of reading the evidence is consistent and overwhelming: explicit and systematic phonics instruction leads to better outcomes. Our One95 literacy system combines evidence-based instruction tools, resources, and knowledge into one comprehensive system—proven and trusted to help students master reading fundamentals.

Links of Interest

Website: https://www.95percentgroup.com
https://www.95percentgroup.com/one95-literacy-products/
95 Phonics Core Program
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/95-percent-group-inc-/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/95percentgroup
Twitter - https://twitter.com/95percentgroup
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/95percentgroupllc/

About our Guest: Laura Stewart

Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy.

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Jeff Bradbury | @JeffBradbury
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Join Our PLN

Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

Let’s Work Together

Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
Email: info@teachercast.net
Voice Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemail
YouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTube
iTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunes

Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net

How Can School Districts Support Pre-Service and New Teachers in their First Few Years? Jan 14, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes Nebraska educator Jennifer Yoder onto the podcast to discuss how teachers can support pre-service and new teachers in their first few years in the classroom. A special THANK YOU to the NEA Foundation for supporting this episode and connecting Mrs. Yoder and I. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

Teacher shortage crisis and educator retention
Why do we have teachers leaving the profession?
- Classroom Management Issues
  - Students needs are not being met so they are acting out in class
  - Teachers need to understand why students are behaving the way they are
    - Academically
    - Socially
    - Emotionally
- Not having an internal support system in the district
How to create tiered level of supports for teachers and students
- Tier 1 - First level support
- Tier 2 - Second Level
  - Allow students to see their counselor
- Tier 3 - Third Level
  - Students have needs that are beyond the regular classroom can support
Should teachers be encouraged to move on from a district and seek employment closer to their homes?
How can teachers support themselves if they are looking to transition to another school district?
- How to build a portfolio
- How to stand out from the many other teachers applying for that same position
Should educators “badge up” their resumes when preparing for career advancement?
What skills are missing from pre-service or first year teachers?
The value of having a mentorship program for new teachers.
Developing new and novice educators
- Create “Tenure Classes” to support educators in their first few years in the classroom
  - Topics
    - Instructional
    - Social / Emotional
    - Procedural
    - Staff member networking

Links of Interest

NEA Foundation

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About our Guest: Jennifer Yoder

Jen Yoder is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and holds advanced degrees in Special Education, Elementary Education, Learning Disabilities and Behavior Disorders. She is currently employed as a Special Education Teacher at the middle school level at Lincoln Public Schools. Mrs Yoder is the recipient of the 2022 California Casualty Teaching Excellence Award and 1999 Outstanding Educator Award for the Midwest Region by the Midwest Symposium of Leadership in Behavior Disorders.

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Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

Let’s Work Together

Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
Email: info@teachercast.net
Voice Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemail
YouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTube
iTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunes

Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

Are You Prepared to Work Less but … Teach More??? Jan 09, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes author, podcaster and Australian educator Dan Jackson on the podcast to discuss the upcoming Inaugural Online Effective Teaching Conference. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

The Inaugural Online Effective Teaching Conference

16th-20th January 2023
Click Here to Register!

What can I expect to learn?

This conference isn't called the "Effective Teaching Conference" for nothing. The whole point of the conference is to help you increase your effectiveness, which is defined as doing more of the right things and less of the activities or tasks that have minimal to no impact . Some of the topics that are going to be covered during this conference include:

How to work less and increase your impact.
How to transform your learning experiences to engage and empower your students to take control of their own learning.
How to frame the curriculum for deeper learning.
How to make your classroom run effectively and develop student executive functioning skills.
How to deliver the perfect "blended" lesson (note to Aussies - blended means a lesson using ICT).
How to empower and engage students through interactive choice boards.
How a mastery approach to learning can help us recover from from the pandemic.
How to improve student memory and focus with sketchnoting
3 EduProductivity systems to save you time
The super powers of feedback
Why you need to use explicit instruction
How to develop a career pathway as an excellent teacher
How to develop students entrepreneurial skills
How to integrate critical thinking
How to apply cognitive learning principles
How to design and implement PBL

Further details for each session can be found below.

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About our Guest: Daniel Jackson

Dan began teaching in 2006. He worked at multiple schools and has been in multiple different positions from classroom teacher, to subject coordinator, to deputy principal. Now, he likes to run workshops, network with teachers, attend and present at conferences, create online courses, host the Effective Teaching podcast and he even managed to write the Amazon number 1 best seller Work Less, Teach More: How to be an effective teacher and live a life you love. TeachersPD exists in order to help teachers become more effective. This means doing more of the right things and less of the things that don't matter. Effective teachers know where they want to go and the most important actions to get there, they prioritises their work each day in relation to who they want to be and the impact they want to make. They challenge assumptions and focus on the elements of teaching that matter the most. They are dedicated to their students' success in life, and have a balance in life between productivity and personal care. Effective teachers leverage the 80/20 rule to increase their impact without wasting their time and challenge the system to focus on what is best for student learning and teacher long-term careers. Finally, effective teachers support and encourage those around them to increase their effectiveness.

Links of Interest

Website: http://www.teacherspd.net/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/danjacksontpd
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeachersPD
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf7PcwgmbKWtSXoIsIm9tkg
Purchase "Work Less Teach More" on Amazon

Join Our PLN

Are you enjoying the TeacherCast Network, please share your thoughts with the world by commenting on Apple Podcasts today? I enjoy reading and sharing your comments on the podcast each week.

Let’s Work Together

Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury
Email: info@teachercast.net
Voice Mail: http://www.TeacherCast.net/voicemail
YouTube: http://www.TeacherCast.net/YouTube
iTunes: http://www.TeacherCast.net/iTunes

Check Out More TeacherCast Programming

TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need A Presenter?

Jeff Bradbury (@TeacherCast) is available as a Keynote Speaker, Presenter, or to Broadcast your conference LIVE!

For More Information: https://www.TeacherCast.net

Dive into UDL (Universal Design for Learning) Dec 17, 2022

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes ISTE Authors Luis Perez and Kendra Grant to discuss the importance of bringing in UDL, or Universal Design for Learning into your classrooms and coaching conversations. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

Dive into URL

Order Your Copy on Amazon Today! In this new edition of the popular book Dive Into UDL, learn how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) supports the creation of learning environments that ensure all learners feel valued, respected and understood. UDL is a framework for designing instruction that meets the needs of every learner. This book is meant to support your professional learning, giving you options and choice in how you build your knowledge. You can wade in, take a shallow swim or dive into UDL as you develop your instructional practice and create a more inclusive learning environment that plans for variability, celebrates diversity and offers flexibility in how students learn and grow. In the process, you’ll learn how to foster high achievement for all students, including those with disabilities or limited English proficiency. In this updated edition, readers will learn how to incorporate accessible learning materials and technologies into their instructional design to ensure choice for learners and help them develop into independent, motivated expert learners. This edition:

Explores how UDL is key to creating an inclusive learning environment that is equitable, culturally relevant, safe and welcoming.
Expands the learning to include virtual classrooms, and emphasizes how UDL is key to ensuring rich, engaging and purposeful online learning.
Examines the application of UDL principles to multiple grade levels and subject areas in both in-person and online environments.
Dives deeper into the authors’ UDL Planning Guide guide at a variety of UDL levels of understanding (Wade in, Shallow Swim, Deep Dive).
Features ideas and examples (on the companion website) from educators around the world to illustrate multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression.

Along the way, the authors draw connections to the ISTE Standards (Educators and Students sections), helping teachers strategically use technology to not only support the three principles of UDL but support the development of independent, self-regulatory empowered learners.

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In this Episode, we Discuss:

What is the UDL framework?
How do you build accessibility in UDL?
How do you design for UDL?
Understanding the layers of UDL
What is the goal of UDL?

About our Guests:

Kendra Grant

Kendra Grant (@KendraFGrant) has held many roles in education, including teacher, district special education coordinator and assistive technology (AT) specialist for a large school district. She was also the owner of a professional learning company delivering large-scale technology implementation across North America. Grant recently moved into corporate training, with the goal of creating a more inclusive workplace built upon Universal Design for Learning. Grant holds a master’s of educational technology (MET) from the University of British Columbia and is a Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP).

Links of Interest

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KendraFGrant

Luis Pérez

Luis Pérez (@eyeonaxs) is a technical assistance specialist at CAST. He holds a doctorate in special education and a master’s degree in instructional technology from the University of South Florida. He was selected as an Apple Distinguished Educator (ADE) in 2009, and as a Google in Education Certified Educator in 2014. More recently, Pérez was recognized with an ISTE Making It Happen award. He is past president of ISTE’s Inclusive Learning Network, which named him its 2016 Outstanding Inclusive Educator. In addition to Dive Into UDL (ISTE), Pérez is also the author of Learning on the Go (CAST Publishing).

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/eyeonaxs

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Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

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Should Teachers and Coaches Pursue Higher Education Degrees and Certificates? Dec 05, 2022

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes Betty Chandy, Director of the Virtual Online Teaching (VOLT) Certificate program and the Experiences in Applied Computational Thinking (EXACT) certificate program at University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education to discuss the options that teachers have in todays virtual learning environment to advance their careers. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode …

What does Higher Education look like post-pandemic?
What opportunities are available for teachers looking to advance their careers?
What is the VOLT Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania?
- How does it work?
  - For teachers who are presently teaching in classrooms
  - How do we leverage technology in a way that is meaningful to students
  - 6 Modules of Study
- How much does it cost?
- Time commitment?
  - 2-4 Semesters
- What will the certificate do for a graduate?
How can a teacher successfully be both a full time educator and student?
The advantages of an online education to advance their career?

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About our Guest, Betty Chandy

Betty Chandy has worked extensively with technology professional development technology for teachers in the greater Philadelphia area, and internationally. Presently she is the Director of the Virtual Online Teaching (VOLT) Certificate program and the Experiences in Applied Computational Thinking (EXACT) certificate program at University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. She develops and conducts technology workshops for various target groups such as students, teachers, as well as school and higher education administrators by engaging extensively with the stakeholders to understand their most pressing needs, and designing programs that are contextually relevant.

Links of Interest

Website: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/academics/faculty-directory/chandy
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chandy_b

About the University of Pennsylvania VOLT Certificate

With the shifting landscape of hybrid, blended and online education, and with the continued focus on using technology for student centered learning, it is important to stay abreast of the research and understanding of the pedagogical practices in digitally enhanced learning spaces. The Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania is now accepting applicants for the Spring 2023 Cohort of its fully online certificate program -- Virtual Online Teaching (VOLT) certificate. This program is designed to help K-12 teachers effectively use technology to support student centered spaces, and design instruction in both blended and fully online environments. The program also meets the requirements of Pennsylvania Department of Education's Online Instruction Endorsement. Interested applicants can apply now at https://upenn.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3fqM84IAJys3Vr0 Key features:

Work completely online, with synchronous and asynchronous meetings and assignments, over two semesters. • Learn about teaching in blended as well as fully online environments
Work on creating a fully online course, which is ready to launch by the end of the program. • Enjoy flexible 6 module format.• Earn University of Pennsylvania Continuing Education credits • Earn PA State Department of Education's Online Teaching Endorsement and Act 48 credits (for PA certified teachers only)
Small class size of 15-20 students
Program cost: $6680 ($3340 per semester) (Alumni discount available)
Application deadline is 12/12/2022

The program’s 6 modules draw from the following overarching themes:

Design of Learning Environments: This strand deals with the general design considerations that apply to learning environments, such as curriculum, assessment and instruction. What are the elements of a well-designed technology enhanced learning environment? How can educators rethink assessment in online environments? How can we support diverse learners with the help of technology? Moving beyond best practices, this course delves deep into the theories and frameworks that guide the design of learning environments. The modules feature the most up-to-date education technology learning trends. Participants consider who is learning, how they learn, what design variables are needed to ensure learning takes place, and societal and technological influences on learning.
Digital Literacies : This strand is designed to explore how literacy and learning have shifted and continue to shift in interaction with the constant and rapid changes in the new media and technology environment. How do students engage in online and social media spaces? Are the students digital natives? What does it mean to be a digital native? The course highlights how digital literacies are situated, and how these socio-cultural understandings illuminate issues of power, authority, and agency.
Online Classroom Management : This strand prepares teachers to develop skills that enable them to design positive learning environments and equips them with the ability to continue learning within the ever-changing technology landscape. Participants in the program and trained to be proficient in the basics of computer literacy, familiar with various online tools, proficient in creating, managing uploading digital material, comfortable using conferencing tools and social media, and be able to seamlessly weave different elements of online portals for use within the learning environment.

Interested applicants can apply now by clicking on the online application HERE. To apply, you would need the completed online application, undergraduate and graduate transcripts (an unofficial copy can be uploaded when applying) and an optional statement of purpose (300 words). More information about the program can be found on our website at this link - PennGSE VOLT. You can also contact Dr. Betty Chandy, Program Director, at chandyb@upenn.edu for more information or details.

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Visit their Website Today!

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TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

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Is K12 Preparing Students Properly for Postsecondary Education and the Workforce? Aug 23, 2022

Show notes

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, Jeff welcomes BloomTech CEO Austen Allred on the program to discuss how alternative education, such as online tech training programs, can be a reliable and faster path to a high-paying job. He says that education shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all, and nontraditional education can be the best option for many people—from recent high school graduates to career changers. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today!

In This Episode ...

How can K12 school districts prepare students for postsecondary education?
What skills are needed by students who are entering postsecondary education?
- Are students ready for this?
What skills are employers looking for from our new graduates?
- Are students ready for this?
Should there be better communication between
- K12 and Higher Education
- K12 and the Workforce
What are some of the features that postsecondary education must incorporate to better serve students leaving K12?
- Flexibility - responsive, effective programs for people on any schedule (not just async and MOOCs)
- Career-focused support that’s in line with market needs
- Hands-on experience that mirrors on-the-job work
- Accelerated paths to jobs
- Accountability to graduates’ results
How is Bloom Institute of Technology (BloomTech) supporting students as they enter their postsecondary careers?
- Where can we learn more about BloomTech?
What can/should K12 teachers be keeping on their minds this year as we begin a new and long school year?

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About our Guest: Austin Allred

Austen Allred is the co-founder and CEO of BloomTech. A native of Springville, Utah, Austen’s start-up journey began in 2017 with him living in his two-door Civic while participating in Y Combinator, a San Francisco-based seed accelerator. This experience became the foundation of BloomTech’s rapid growth. Before founding BloomTech, Austen was the co-founder of media platform GrassWire. He co-authored the growth hacking textbook Secret Sauce, which became a best-seller and provided him the personal seed money to build BloomTech. Austen’s disruptive ideas on the future of education, the labor market disconnect, and the opportunity of providing opportunity at-scale have been featured in: The Harvard Business Review, The Economist, WIRED, Fast Company, TechCrunch, The New York Times, among others. Austen is fluent in Russian and currently lives in San Francisco with his wife and two kids.

Links of Interest

Website: bloomtech.com
Twitter @Austen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austenallred/

About BloomTech

BloomTech designed everything within its learning experience with one goal: to help learners get a well-paying job, faster, and with less risk. The innovative edtech company teaches the skills employers want plus supports learners in the job search, every step of the way. Founded in 2017, Bloom Institute of Technology (formerly Lambda School and also known as BloomTech) was built on the premise that traditional higher education is broken. Too many people are left out and left behind, leaving them without the opportunities that come from a well-paying job. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, CA, but is proud to be a remote-first organization, employing leaders from all corners of the U.S.

Explore these Resources

In this episode, we mentioned the following resources:

bloomtech.com

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TeacherCast Podcast (http://www.teachercast.net/tcp)
Educational Podcasting Today (http://www.educationalpodcasting.today)
Ask The Tech Coach (http://www.AskTheTechCoach.com)
EdTech in the Classroom (http://www.edtechintheclassroom.com)

Need a Presenter?

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