Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

Latest Episodes:

AI Trust You Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

In today’s episode, we'll explore how AI Trust You, a free Google add-on, can increase open and honest communication between students and teachers regarding AI use on assignments. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Outsmarted: The Changing Face of Learning in the Era of Smartphones and Technology, with Lisa Green Jun 11, 2025

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In this episode of Unpacking Education, we dive into the realities of teaching in a tech-saturated world with educator and author Lisa Green. Drawing from her book Outsmarted: The Changing Face of Learning in the Era of Smartphones and Technology, Lisa explores how smartphones, social media, and technology are transforming the way students learn, socialize, and engage in the classroom.

Lisa shares practical classroom strategies that blend structure, coaching, and empathy—from using visual timers and sticky note checklists to fostering digital self-awareness. “They need to learn to manage this piece on their own,” she says of students and their phones. Join us as we unpack how educators can guide students toward healthy tech habits while positively leveraging digital tools. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

The President’s Executive Order: “Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth.” Jun 10, 2025

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Explore the highlights of the President’s Executive Order: “Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth.”

SchoolAI, with Kevin Morrill Jun 04, 2025

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Tech in the Writing Process: Publishing Jun 03, 2025

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In today’s episode, we'll explore how technology can enhance the publishing phase of the writing process. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Beyond Words: How Bilingual Education Shapes Young Minds, with Sophie Ricouard May 28, 2025

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Sophie Ricouard, Pre-Elementary Academic Director (Toddler–K) at the San Diego French-American School, joins us to discuss the benefits of bilingual education. She explains how her school starts with French immersion and then gradually transitions to a 50/50 mix of French and English. Sophie emphasizes the cognitive and social advantages of bilingualism, noting that children learn to switch between languages. She addresses common misconceptions, such as the fear of losing English skills, and highlights strategies for parents to support their children's bilingual journey. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Tech in the Writing Process: Polishing May 27, 2025

Show notes

In today’s episode, we'll explore how technology can be integrated into the polishing phase of the writing process. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Building Strong Foundations: How Instructional Innovation and PBL Transform Teaching, with Dr. Jorge Valenzuela May 21, 2025

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In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with education coach, author, and researcher Dr. Jorge Valenzuela to explore how instructional innovation and project-based learning (PBL) can transform the learning experience and empower both students and educators. Jorge introduces the updated second edition of his book, Project-Based Learning+: Enhancing Academic Learning and Essential Life Skills, and shares how combining academic learning with essential life skills—like emotional intelligence, career readiness, and self-knowledge—creates powerful outcomes.

Tune in to hear about how action research, personalized learning, and timely feedback can help educators meet students where they are. You’ll also discover practical tools, strategies for integrating AI in the classroom, and ways to foster student agency through relevant, real-world learning experiences. Whether you're new to PBL or looking to deepen your practice, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Tech in the Writing Process: Revision May 20, 2025

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In today’s episode, we'll explore meaningful ways to integrate technology into the revision portion of the writing process. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

AI Trust You, with Michael Morrison May 14, 2025

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