The Education Table with Katie Novak, EdD

How Teachers Can Use Big and Small Data Every Day in Their Classrooms Feb 12, 2025

Today, we’re talking aboutdata—not just big data (such as test scores and report cards) but the small, everyday data that helps teachers adjust instruction, connect with students, and see the immediate impact of their work.

Katie Novak will share how teachers can gather this data and then share three action steps that educators, at any grade level, can use to leverage both big and small data in the classroom to make a difference every single day.

View resources and more onthe show page:https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-how-teachers-use-small-data

How to Elevate Instructional Design with AI Jan 14, 2025

In today’s episode, we’re exploring the power of AI—not as a replacement for educators but as a game-changing tool to elevate our work.

Katie Novak shares three practical strategies she has used to leverage AI to amplify her efforts, build relationships, and foster inclusive learning environments. She also recounts a personal story about how AI helped her son overcome writer's block and highlights compelling research on the benefits of educators using AI in the classroom.

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel empowered to try these strategies right away, lightening your load while strengthening your practice.

View resources, the episode article, and more on the show page: https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-elevate-design-with-ai

Claim your two bonus chapters! https://info.novakeducation.com/elevating-educational-design-ai-bonus-chapters

Three Effective Strategies for Implementing Station Rotations in the Classroom Jan 01, 2025

Station rotations are one of the most powerful (and realistic) strategies for meeting the needs of diverse learners but knowing how to effectively implement it is crucial for its magic to shine through. In this episode, Katie Novak will share a helpful analogy to explain station rotations - a blended learning model that balances explicit instruction, collaboration, and digital learning to meet every student's needs - how it works. Then she will share compelling research from John Hattie along with three effective ways to increase engagement, scaffold lessons tailored to students needs and offer immediate feedback to and from students with the station rotation model.

To access resources and more, head to the show page https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-station-rotations

Personalize Learning with Playlists Dec 11, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak breaks down the ins and outs of learning playlists, a powerful tool that can transform your classroom. We explore how to blend online and offline learning, leverage existing resources, and scaffold student success. We’ll uncover the secret to creating flexible and structured playlists that empower students to personalize their learning journey while staying on track with tasks and time management.

This episode is for teachers, instructors, and coaches looking to give students more control of their learning while providing opportunities for educators to meet the individualized needs of their students through personalized check-ins and conferences throughout the learning process.

To access a playlist template, additional resources, and more, head to the show page https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-learning-playlists

Increase Teacher Efficacy with UDL: How to Inspire, Motivate and Get Results Nov 25, 2024

Discover how to elevate your school's instructional practices by empowering your teachers with Universal Design for Learning (UDL). In this episode, Katie Novak explores the impact of teacher efficacy - not only on students but on staff as well. Novak shares how to cultivate a culture of belief and competence among your staff while providing insights into effective professional development and support systems.

Discover how personal and collective beliefs shape student outcomes, explore practical strategies to implement UDL in your classrooms, from flexible learning materials to diverse assessment practices, and learn how to foster a culture of innovation and support teacher growth. Whether you are a seasoned school leader or just starting out in the education space, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to inspire, motivate, and achieve remarkable results.

Access resources and the transcript from the show: https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-teacher-efficacy

Making Math Accessible and Engaging for All: UDL Takeaways for K-5 Nov 14, 2024

Today, math is often still taught the same way it was decades ago, but our students’ needs have evolved, and their performance on standardized tests shows it. We now recognize that learners vary in countless ways, and the idea that “there’s only one way to teach math” no longer holds up. Research shows us that integrating Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles creates more accessible and engaging math classrooms. With UDL, we can shift the narrative for students, helping them discover a love of learning and build confidence in math from an early age. In this episode you’ll learn how UDL plays a vital role in creating inclusive math classrooms for all students in grades K-5, no matter the curriculum you have adopted.

Katie Novak will share concrete strategies for effective K-5 math instruction, including how to incorporate inquiry-based learning, building clarity around learning goals, providing options and choices, incorporating visual representations, and promoting self-reflection.

Dive in deeper and access the resources from this episode: https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-udl-math-k-5

Ways to Increase Teacher Buy-In Towards Inclusive Practices & UDL Oct 29, 2024

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, how can I get my team on board with more inclusive practices and implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? Katie has seen it all and knows how challenging transitions can be for all parties: the facilitators, teachers, administrators, and staff. Katie will share some practical tips and insights to help educators feel supported and engaged in this process.

This episode would be especially helpful for those looking to implement new changes with staff members or those in the process of implementing inclusive practices and UDL in their schools or districts. Creating and sustaining teacher and staff buy-in is critical to meeting your goals and helping to create a space where all students are given high expectations and every opportunity to learn.

Join the movement. Transform Education. Hit Play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at ⁠https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-teacher-buy-in
Sign up for Katie Novak’s monthly newsletter -⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up⁠
Take action! Work with Katie and team - ⁠https://www.novakeducation.com/professional-development

Inclusion Vs Inclusive Practice Oct 08, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table, we’re answering the question, what's the difference between inclusion and inclusive practice. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different aspects of creating effective learning environments for all students. Katie Novak will share insights on what sets them apart and discuss how educators can implement inclusive practices in their classrooms and learning environments.

With the benefits of inclusive practice increasingly presenting themself through evidence and research, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to create supportive learning environments. By the end of the episode, you will gain concrete strategies for implementing inclusive practices, such as embracing variability, recognizing that what is necessary for some can be good for all, facilitating student choice, and fostering a supportive classroom environment.

Resources and more on the show page: https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-inclusion-vs-inclusive-practices

Equality, Equity, and Learner Agency. Plus: How & Why to Integrate Learner Agency Into Your Equity Work Sep 30, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak explores the differences between equality and equity in education, and shares how learner agency is a missing piece in a lot of equity work.

By the end of this episode, you’ll see why implementing equity practices alone can feel overwhelming for educators. But don’t worry—we’re diving into strategies that make it more manageable while boosting outcomes for all learners. You’ll discover how to empower your students through goal-setting, self-assessment, and reflection, and so much more! Ready to join the movement and transform education? Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-equity-equality-learner-agency

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To learn more, explore ⁠⁠NovakEducation.com⁠

How to Improve Test Scores With UDL Sep 16, 2024

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, does it make sense to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in the classroom when standardized tests don’t offer the same options to students? Katie will share a story, talk about some key statistics and research, and provide test-taking strategies that will help educators prepare their students for those standardized tests—without compromising accessibility.

Implementing UDL can help students perform their best on standardized tests despite the limitations of the tests themselves and in this episode we’ll equip educators with strategies for preparing students including being honest about the purpose of testing, teaching test-taking strategies, using exemplars and rubrics, practicing test-taking skills, building digital literacy skills, and understanding the psychology of multiple-choice tests, all with the end goal of empowering our students to succeed!

Join the movement:

Take me to the show page https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-standardized-testing-and-udl
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How is MTSS Different from RTI? Aug 30, 2024

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, what is the difference between Multi-Tiered System of Supports and Response to Intervention or most commonly known as MTSS vs. RTI? These two frameworks are so often used interchangeably, but their distinct differences are important to understand. In this episode, Katie will share insights into each approach and discuss how they impact teaching and learning.

This episode is best for educators looking to make system-wide shifts. You’ll walk away with concrete strategies for fostering MTSS, such as integrating academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports, implementing data systems, and promoting collective efficacy and shared responsibility.

Join the movement. Transform Education. Hit Play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-how-is-mtss-different-from-rti
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Take action! Work with Katie and team - https://www.novakeducation.com/professional-development

What is Different About the UDL Guidelines 3.0, and Why Are These Differences Important? Aug 27, 2024

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, what is different about the updated version of the UDL Guidelines (UDL Guidelines 3.0)?, and we’ll discuss why these differences are important (for our learners, our teachers, our learning communities). Katie will share a story that illustrates the shift in focus from creating expert learners to cultivating learner agency (hint, a big focus of the update!), delve into the key differences in the guidelines, and discuss how these changes can impact your teaching practice.

With Universal Design for Learning rapidly taking over as best practice in schools, workplaces, and design - this episode is a must listen for those looking to understand the shift in language and implementation with the new update to the UDL Guidelines 3.0. Hit play on The Education Table.

Join the movement.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-udl-guidelines-3
Jigsaw activity template
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Learn more about UDL, MTSS, & Inclusive Practices, explore NovakEducation.com⁠

What is MTSS? A Quick Rundown of Everything a Teacher Needs to Know! Jul 22, 2024

In this special edition of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll explore the question, what is Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, or MTSS, from a Teacher’s perspective. Throughout the episode, Katie will provide practical strategies for enhancing Tier 1 instruction, including prioritizing professional learning, collaborating with colleagues, and embracing data collection and analysis. These practices have the potential to reduce the need for intensive interventions and help to promote increased student learning.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand the power of data-driven decision making, how to advocate for resources and support to enhance tier one instruction, and how you can take action to reduce the need for intensive interventions by creating a strong Tier 1 foundation, plus much more! Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-mtss-for-teachers
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To learn more, explore ⁠NovakEducation.com⁠

What is MTSS? A Quick Rundown of Everything a School Leader Needs to Know Jul 17, 2024

In this special leadership edition of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll explore what is a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, or MTSS? I'll share a story about the importance of building a strong foundation, and dive into the research on implementation drivers and how effective execution helps to increase teacher satisfaction and reduce burnout. Plus, I’ll share right-now strategies for effectively implementing MTSS in your school or district.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand that MTSS is more than just tiers of support and you’ll get to know the three key drivers of effective MTSS implementation, the importance of data and reflection and what to do next in your journey towards creating a comprehensive system that supports student and teacher success.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-mtss-for-leaders
Sign up for my monthly newsletter ⁠⁠https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up⁠⁠
To learn more, explore ⁠NovakEducation.com⁠

UDL and Differentiated Instruction Explained Jul 08, 2024

Let’s dive into the dynamic duo of UDL and DI! In this episode of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the relationship between Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI). We’ll look at each educational framework’s origin, why a traditional one-size-fits-all approach is not effective, and Katie will share concrete strategies for implementing UDL and DI.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how UDL and DI can revolutionize inclusive education when used together.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-udl-and-di
Sign up for my monthly newsletter ⁠https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up⁠
To learn more, explore NovakEducation.com⁠

Is Inclusion Really Good for Everyone? Jul 01, 2024

In this Episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak tackles the question, is there evidence that inclusion is good for all learners? She discusses the importance of creating inclusive learning environments and highlights the benefits of an inclusive classroom setting for all students - including those with and without disabilities. She examines the stance on inclusion from the United Nations and dives into evidence from the Herir reports on the effectiveness of student outcomes and explains how Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and differentiated instruction play an integral role in its success. Katie will provide strategies for implementing inclusive practices, such as using diagnostic assessments, leveraging blended learning models, and shifting to student-led learning.

This episode is best for those seeking to understand the benefits of inclusive learning environments and for educators that are looking for strategies to implement into their classrooms to create a space where all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at ⁠https://www.novakeducation.com/is-inclusion-really-good-for-everyone
Sign up for my monthly newsletter - ⁠https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up⁠
To learn more, explore ⁠NovakEducation.com⁠

Boost Learning Across All Subjects with Student Reflection! 23% Increase in Student Performance!! Jun 24, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak answers your burning question, How can you support student reflection in the classroom? She’ll explore the value of daily reflection and offer practical strategies that teachers can implement to help students build strong decision-making skills and become more capable of making informed choices. The goal is that by the end of this episode, listeners will be armed with the knowledge to help students reflect effectively across all subject areas.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, blog and transcript at https://www.novakeducation.com/student-reflection-boost-learning-across-subjects
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How to Build a More Student-Led Classroom (Because We're Doing Waaayy Too Much for Our Students! ) Jun 16, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll discuss the concept of building a more student-led classroom and share strategies for implementing this approach. The research and positive impact are clear, and we’re laying it all out on the table, including a story about how Katie transitioned her morning routine from a madhouse to a kid-led cafe.

This episode is for teachers looking to find balance while students experience more responsibility, success, and engagement. It will also benefit those who want to empower students to take charge of their own learning, foster accountability, and help prepare them with future-ready skills (all while sipping coffee while it’s still hot!).

Stay tuned for future episodes as we share effective strategies for creating student-led classrooms with UDL and blended learning. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-podcast-student-led-classroom
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View all episodes: https://www.novakeducation.com/theeducationtablepodcast

How to Increase Student Engagement with Firm Goals & Teacher Clarity Jun 09, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll examine the impact of grade-level standards and high expectations on student achievement. We’ll also review the importance of firm goals and teacher clarity, drawing from personal experiences and research, and, as always, share concrete strategies for implementation. This episode will highlight blended learning models, including station rotation, the power of UDL, a discussion about decoding, and the value of diagnostic assessments.

This episode is for teachers who want to enhance student engagement and create purposeful learners. It will also benefit those looking to empower learners and improve communication with their students.

Stay tuned for future episodes as we share student engagement strategies and use data to inform decisions. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-increase-student-engagement-with-firm-goals-teacher-clarity
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Turns Out, You're Not a Visual Learner After All...The Truth About Learning Styles Jun 02, 2024

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the research behind learning styles (or the lack of it!) and dive into the subject of learner variability. By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with strategies to use today to address learner variability in your learning environment.

This episode is for teachers who are looking to connect with their learners as well as for those looking to create inclusive, innovative and effective environments. It’s also perfect for anyone who has ever said or heard anyone say: visual learner, kinesthetic learner, auditory learner, etc.

In this episode, we just scratch the surface of learner variability. Stay tuned for future episodes as we unpack student variability and use data to inform decisions. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-learning-styles-myth
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Too Many Choices!? The Ideal Number of Options to Offer Learners May 23, 2024

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, when designing instruction for our learners (our students, our staff, etc.), just how much choice is too much? We’ll cover what happens when we offer too much choice and we’ll take a look at the psychology and research behind the statistics as we outline the ideal number of choices we provide to our learners along with strategies to increase the outcomes of our learners.

This episode is best for those seeking to create flexible, inclusive learning environments while avoiding the pitfalls of choice paralysis. Examples include scenarios involving students that may struggle with visual processing, decoding at grade level, and multilingual learners.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-too-many-choices
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To learn more, explore NovakEducation.com
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What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? May 19, 2024

In the premiere episode of The Education Table, join me, Katie Novak, as I answer the question, what is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? I'm going to answer this question in three parts, and in under 10 minutes. First, I'm going to tell you a story and share an anecdote about the value of UDL in our personal lives. Then I'm going to dive into the research and statistics so that you can understand how incredibly important it is for us to use this evidence-based framework. And lastly, I'll share concrete strategies so you feel prepared to implement UDL, now Let's dive in!

View the show page, resources, transcript and more at https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-what-is-udl
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To learn more, explore NovakEducation.com
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The Education Table Trailer May 03, 2024

Welcome to The Education Table, a micro podcast that serves as a destination for insights into inclusive and innovative education, all in 10 minutes or less. Hosted by Katie Novak, a lifelong educator, author, and mother of four, the podcast is dedicated to fostering inclusive and innovative educational systems. Each episode offers a mix of stories, statistics, and strategies designed to establish balance for teachers and enhance outcomes for all learners.

The Education Table addresses your pressing questions about education with a touch of sass. Featuring evidence-based strategies and frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), along with innovative interventions and leadership practices that truly make a difference, this podcast aims to provoke thought, inspire action, and drive change, offering the insights and tools necessary to transform educational experiences for every learner.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

Sign up for my monthly newsletter - https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up
To learn more, explore NovakEducation.com
For a full transcript, go to NovakEducation.com/TheEducationTablePodcast

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