What's the Big Idea?: Recent Episodes
What's the Big Idea?
A podcast about big ideas in education. Tune in to listen and think, then respond on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks about addressing hard topics and fielding tough questions from our smallest students with Kat Nguyen, a Kindergarten teacher in California. How do early childhood teachers address the questions and comments that inevitably arise, especially in this hypermedia era when students of all ages are likely to notice, see, overhear and wonder?
Dan and Kat talk about being honest, authentic, and vulnerable with students, the perils of this election year, and her book recommendations for young students.
Books mentioned in the episode:
No Turkey For Thanksgiving by Jacqueline Jules and Kathryn Mitter
Red: A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell and David Catrow
Music: Que Es Estraño by Molo
In which Dan talks about how teachers can feel prepared and empowered to teach and talk about the upcoming election. He's joined by Erica Hodgin from Facing History & Ourselves, truly the gold standard for approaching difficult history and civic topics in K-12 classrooms.
This election will bring unique opportunities and challenges for all teachers (not just social studies teachers!) and meeting this moment means thinking about ourselves, our classrooms, and how we'll foster civil discourse when emotionally charged topics come up.
Even more than that, Erica discusses why it's vital to engage young people in the democratic process and civic life beyond textbooks.
Mentioned in the episode:
From Facing History
- Civic education landing page
- Democracy in Action: Teaching about the 2024 Election & Educating for Civic Participation
- Teaching about Voting and Elections
- Back to School Toolkit
- Fostering Civil Discourse Guide
- Teaching Resources for US Elections Collection
- Democracy and Current Events Toolkit
Music: We Have a Tripod
In which Dan discusses thinking about the nature of technology with Dan Krutka, an associate professor at the University of North Texas, a prolific academic writer, and one of the founders of Civics of Technology, a project and online community founded on something Dan calls technoskepticism.
Whether you're an educator or just someone who enjoys thinking about how technology impacts our lives, this conversation is for you. After exploring the question of phones in schools, Dan and Dan unpack technoskepticism and why and how we (and our students) can think more deeply about our interaction with technology.
Mentioned:
Civics of Technology
"What Relationships Do We Want with Technology?", Harvard Educational Review by Pleasants, Krutka, Nichols
"Anti-Social Media: Teaching Slow Responses to Fast Media", Social Education by Krutka
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas Carr
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
The works of Ruha Benjamin
A World Without Email: Reimagining Work in an Age of Communication Overload by Cal Newport
The Social Dilemma
Music by Lights in L
In which Dan talks with Garreth Heidt, an educator in Pennsylvania who’s spent a career thinking about and practicing how education could be different. Garreth leads the Nova LAB program at Perkiomen Valley HS.
Dan and Garreth discuss human systems and agency, risk taking in the classroom, challenging the status quo, and empowering students to see beyond grades and find purpose.
I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Twitter, and Threads @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
Nova LAB at Perkiomen High School
Why John Dewey’s vision for education and democracy still resonates today from The Conversation
Future Search Network
The Path to Purpose: How Young People Find Their Calling in Life by Bill Damon
Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation and Taking 20% Time to the Next Level by Don Wettrick
Wayfinder
Music by Smart Toaster
In which Dan chats with Tyler Rablin (@Mr_Rablin) about how teachers can make assessment really work for student motivation, purpose, and confidence. Tyler is a teacher and instructional coach in Washington, and he's the author of the new book Hacking Student Motivation: 5 Assessment Strategies That Boost Learning Progression & Build Student Confidence. Dan and Tyler talk about the nature of student motivation in 2024 and online gradebooks before turning to Tyler's book.
Tyler lays out specific, actionable ways that teachers can make assessment work for students, and it makes for a great read. Dan and Tyler discuss his thoughts on feedback, learning progressions, and what Tyler calls an "informative gradebook." They wrap up by talking about phones in schools and why removing them creates a more authentic, productive environment.
As always, I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter (X) @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Hacking Student Motivation: 5 Assessment Strategies That Boost Learning Progression & Build Student Confidence by Tyler Rablin, February 2024
Assessment with Tyler Rablin, What's the Big Idea?, April 2021
Introducing the HyperRubric: A Tool that Takes Learning to the Next Level (featuring Tyler Rablin), Cult of Pedagogy, August 2021
Tyler Rablin on Twitter (X), where he shares many excellent ideas and resources
Support me on Patreon, where a $5 monthly membership gets you a cool sticker!
Music: Red Funk by Ruben Ramos
In which Dan comments on our nation's obsession with STEM education and misaligned priorities. We've been sold a story by industry leaders that STEM jobs are the future; we lionize tech and math nerds; we push kids to take the highest possible math classes. Why?
Looking at some of our biggest problems that humanity faces – – climate change, sectarian violence, political paralysis, authoritarianism— and it’s clear that while technology can, has, and always will play a vital role, it’s foolish to think that technology will save us. We can’t simply tech our way out of our problems.
This isn't an anti-STEM rant. It's a call for a more balanced approach.
Mentioned in the episode:
Math Anxiety Is Real. Here's How To Help Your Child Avoid It, NPR, Sept. 2020
College Preparation, Undergraduate Admissions, University of Michigan
Can We Please Stop Talking About Harvard?, Have You Heard, Jan. 2024
Bad Idea: Prioritizing STEM Education at the Expense of Civic Education, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dec. 2020
The Fantasy Economy: Neoliberalism, Inequality, and the Education Reform Movement by Neil Kraus
Is There Really a STEM Workforce Shortage? by Ron Hira, Issues in Science and Technology, Summer 2022
In which Dan talks about the challenges facing girls today--and reasons for optimism--with Donna Jackson Nakazawa. Donna is the author of seven books, most recently Girls on the Brink: Helping Our Daughters Thrive in an Era of Increased Anxiety, Depression, and Social Media. Dan and Donna talk about the multitude of stressors facing girls today and how their biology uniquely interacts with that stress. Then they talk about some of the implications for schools before turning to what Donna calls "antidotes", strategies and mindsets for the adults in girls' lives to help them thrive.
As always I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Threads, and X @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Girls on the Brink: Helping Our Daughters Thrive in an Era of Increased Anxiety, Depression, and Social Media by Donna Jackson Nakazawa
Childhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal by Donna Jackson Nakazawa
The Angel and the Assassin: The Tiny Brain Cell That Changed the Course of Medicine by Donna Jackson Nakazawa
Facebook Knows Instagram Is Toxic for Teen Girls, Company Documents Show, Wall Street Journal, Sept 2021
Social media is driving teen mental health crisis, surgeon general warns, NBC News, May 2023
Conference to Restore Humanity 2024 from Human Restoration Project
Music by Stars in LA
In which Dan talks media literacy--the skills needed to responsibly decode, assess, and create media--with Tim Krueger, a Social Studies teacher in Syracuse, New York, and someone who's been doing a ton of thinking and teaching about this essential topic. The proliferation of information, misinformation, and disinformation (especially as we enter an election year), all super charged by social media, partisan divides and, now, artificial intelligence, makes now the perfect time for teachers to dive into media literacy.
Mentioned in the episode:
Verified: How to Think Straight, Get Duped Less, and Make Better Decisions about What to Believe Online by Mike Caulfield and Sam Wineburg
"Internet at School Is Changing Work of Students--and Teachers", Washington Post, Sept, 2000
Media Literacy Now, an advocacy group calling for states to mandate media literacy curriculum
News Literacy Project provides a rich bank of resources and learning platforms for teachers at all grade levels
How to Teach Media and News Literacy with Ebonee Rice, What's the Big Idea?, Nov, 2021
Adfontes Media Bias Chart - an incredible visual tool for exploring media outlets
"When Teens Find Misinformation, These Teachers Are Ready" (featuring Tim Krueger), NY Times, Sept 2022
"Elections and Disinformation Are Colliding Like Never Before in 2024", NY Times, Jan 2024
"Fake Joe Biden robocall tells New Hampshire Democrats not to vote Tuesday", NBC News, Jan 2024
Music by Ruben Ramos
In which Dan takes a few minutes to share his thoughts on the power of putting students in a position to hear and reflect on personal stories. Drawing on recent experiences with a Holocaust survivor and an immigration unit, Dan talks about how one great avenue to authentic assessment (see also: can't be replicated by ChatGPT) and student buy-in is in-person storytelling connected to their studies.
As always, I welcome comments and questions on Instagram, Threads, and X @BigIdeaEd
Flash draft: n. a work of writing that is done quickly without editing
Mentioned in the episode:
Teachers Fear ChatGPT Will Make Cheating Easier Than Ever by Rashi Shrivastava, Forbes
ChatGPT Is Making Universities Rethink Plagiarism by Sophia Barnett, Wired
Some Ideas for Using ChatGPT in Middle and High School Classes by Geoff Richman, Edutopia
Holocaust Museum LA
Cover photo: Joseph Alexander
Episode music: "Imperfect" from Lofi free beats
In which Dan explores the power of outdoor experiential learning with Fulcrum Adventures, a Los Angeles-based company and leader in the team building and outdoor youth development space. Their motto is Do. Risk. Grow.Dan talks with Leo Van Warmerdam, program director, and Racine Camara, one of Fulcrum's facilitators, about the power of learning outside, reflection, and, ultimately, letting young people be themselves.
As always, I welcome comments and questions on X, Threads, and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Fulcrum Adventures
It's time to log off and touch grass by Catriona Morton
Angela Hanscom has the remedy for our kids' overly structured, overly scheduled world from What's the Big Idea
Music by Stars in LA
In which Dan talks about puberty--that rite of passage that many of us would sooner forget--and how for kids today it looks and feels so very different from a generation ago. He talks to Dr. Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll Bennett, hosts of the excellent Puberty Podcast and co-authors of the forthcoming book This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained. Dan, Cara, and Vanessa discuss the role adults play in the lives of adolescents, technology, the adolescent brain, and what schools are getting right and could do better. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
The Puberty Podcast, hosted by Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll Bennett
Pre-order This Is So Awkward: Modern Puberty Explained
Music by Stars in LA
In which Dan talks with Celeste Kirsh, middle school educator, podcast host, and Ph.D. student. Celeste is a deeply reflective and thoughtful person, and so Dan picks her brain about digital media literacy, teaching young people to write, and why we should be hopeful about the future. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @bigideaed
Featured on the show and further reading:
Teaching Tomorrow Podcast, produced and hosted by Celeste Kirsh
Civix Canada
Countering Truth Decay by RAND (a report on digital literacy)
"How ChatGPT robs students of motivation to write and think for themselves" by Naomi Baron
"ChatGPT will fundamentally change how we teach writing; that’s a good thing" by Christopher Mah
"ChatGPT and Writing Assessment, an Old Problem Made New" by John Warner
Conference to Restore Humanity from Human Restoration Project
Enter promo code BIGIDEA at checkout for a $25 discount
Music by Stars in LA
In which Dan talks with Annie Abrams, public school teacher and author of the new book Shortchanged: How Advanced Placement Cheats Students. Dan was always skeptical of the AP for reasons related to cost and its content-heavy nature, but after reading Abrams' rich analysis and critique of the program, it's clear that there's a lot more to it than that. Dan and Annie discuss why the AP has such reach in America's high schools, how teacher autonomy and student agency are damaged by AP courses, and possible solutions.
As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Shortchanged: How Advanced Placement Cheats Students by Annie Abrams
Culver City eliminates honors English in attempt to reach racial equity by KQED
Time to Slay the College Board Dragon by Michael Hynes
conference to restore humanity! 2023 from Human Restoration Project
enter code bigidea at checkout for a $25 discount
Music by Barry Moore
In which Dan interviews Yehudah Potok, Director of Jewish Education Program and Lead for the Antisemitism Project at Facing History and Ourselves. A recent uptick in antisemitism around the U.S. had Dan wondering about the state of Holocaust education, so he reached out to Facing History, which has long been a leading voice in education for authentic, deep learning around hard topics like racism and antisemitism. Dan and Yehudah discuss Facing History's unique approach to curriculum and pedagogy, the role of social media in spreading hate like antisemitism, and why, perhaps, we've done too good a job teaching the Holocaust.
I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
Antisemitism is on the rise, and it's not just about Ye from NPR
The State of Holocaust Education in America from Moment Magazine
A Convenient Hatred: The History of Antisemitism from Facing History and Ourselves
Holocaust and Human Behavior from Facing History and Ourselves
Explorations Workshop from Facing History and Ourselves
Teaching for Justice & Equity from Facing History and Ourselves
Antisemitism Explainer from Facing History and Ourselves
Music: mel unfiltered via Youtube Audio Library
In which Dan discusses history, representation, and America's blindspots with Femi Redwood (@femiredwood), journalist and host of the podcast Beyond Black History Month, which has just kicked off its second season. They talk about the very idea of Black History Month in both schools and American media, the country's reluctance to engage with history, significant topics that are being overlooked, and the importance of representation in our institutions. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Beyond Black History Month, hosted by Femi Redwood
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration rejects African American AP course, ABC News
More Than a Month, directed by Shukree Hassan Tilghman
Oyotunji, South Carolina
Teaching Resources:
Zinn Education Project
Facing History and Ourselves
Learning For Justice
Equal Justice Initiative
Music: "It'll Be Alright", mel unfiltered via Youtube Audio Library
In which Dan learns all about the book adaptation process from Rebecca Stefoff (@RebeccaStefoff), author of numerous fiction and nonfiction titles. Notably, Rebecca has adapted important works by Howard Zinn, Ronald Takaki, and Charles Darwin, and her efforts have made seminal texts such as A People's History of the United States accessible for young people. Dan and Rebecca talk about her career as an author, how she goes about adapting, and why it's so vital to get these ideas in the hands of the youth.
Mentioned in the episode:
A Young People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn, adapted Rebecca Stefoff
A Different Mirror for Young People: A History of Multicultural America by Ronald Takaki, adapted by Rebecca Stefoff
On the Origin of Species: Young Readers Edition by Charle Darwin, adapted by Rebecca Stefoff
How to Change Everything: The Young Human's Guide to Protecting the Planet and Each Other by Naomi Klein, adapted by Rebecca Stefoff
As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo via Creative Commons Media
In which Dan talks with Kindra Neely (@kindraneely), author of the new graphic memoir Numb to This: Memoir of a Mass Shooting. Neely is a survivor of the 2015 shooting at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon. Numb to This is both a documentary of the events and an intimate personal account of the human toll of a mass shooting. Neely explores the role of media in covering mass shootings, the stress that such traumas place on relationships, the recurrence of mass shootings in America and, in the book’s most poignant, difficult, and tense scene, Neely’s own suicide attempt. Numb to This is an important book for this national moment.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo via Creative Commons Media
In which Dan chats with Monte Syrie (@MonteSyrie) about the gains, pains, and learning that comes with being a professional educator. Our fast-paced, get-it-now culture can lead teachers to think that they should be polished and amazing NOW. Monte's career, and reflection on that career, suggest that patience is a virtue and that we can all grow into greatness. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Project 180 by Monte Syrie
Monte's writing for Edutopia
Better: A Teacher's Journey by Monte Syrie
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo via Creative Commons Media
In which Dan asks a bunch of really smart educators, "What have the past two+ years taught us?" We're entering another school year of pandemic teaching and learning, so what do we have to show for it? Forget the think pieces online and the ranting at local school board meetings; what can these innovative teachers tell us about where education has (and hasn't) gone since March 2020? As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Guests on the show:
- Celeste Kirsch - host of the Teaching Tomorrow Podcast, @teaching_tomorrow
- Jonathan Gold - check out his articles for Learning for Justice, @jonathansgold
- Kayla Duncan - co-author of Learning That Transfers, @MrsKaylaDuncan
- Leo Thompson - of the Council of International Schools, check out his thoughts on education over at LinkedIn
- Tanay Naik - educator at UNIS Hanoi, @tnaik
- Nick Covington - Creative Director at the Human Restoration Project and prolific, insightful tweeter @CovingtonEDU
- Julia Fliss - Colorado educator and @SDG ambassador, @JuliaFliss
- Jessica Kirkland - Virginia educator full of good ideas @jkirk___
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo
In which Dan chats with author Barbara Dee about her work writing powerful novels about middle school students, for middle school students. Barbara's 13th novel comes out this fall, and her books take on issues ranging from mental health to addiction to eco-anxiety. Dan and Barbara discuss how she finds the sweet spot in writing fiction at the middle school level, her characters, her career, and her views on the current wave of censorship sweeping through America's schools and libraries. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara Dee
Violets Are Blue by Barbara Dee
Starcrossed by Barbara Dee
Barbara Dee online
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan examines the behemoth that is traditional grading--you know, the A-F and 0-100 scales, and GPAs. Dan is joined by Susan Blum (@SusanDebraBlum) who has done a ton of thinking, speaking, and writing about how teachers can move away from this crude, harmful practice and towards something called ungrading. Susan edited and contributed to Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead). She talks with Dan about why grading is not at all about learning, how it's baked into our educational system and expectations, and what teachers can start doing now to ungrade. As always, comments and questions are welcomed on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead) edited by Susan Blum
The Schools Our Children Deserve by Alfie Kohn
Mastery Transcript Consortium
The Ungrading Handbook from the Human Restoration Project
Grading ≠ Assessment from the Human Restoration Project
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan takes a close look at the recent spread of censorship aimed at schools and libraries across the United States. Hundreds (!) of new laws have been proposed in just months that would put teachers and curriculums under the microscope, and books are being pulled from shelves. The common denominator? The ideas and books being questioned all challenge orthodox views of American society, history, and family.
To begin, Dan is joined by Jonathan Friedman from PEN America to talk about gag order laws proliferating across the country (5:40). They discuss how the 1619 Project should be seen as ground zero for this latest censorship push, and then talk through the goals and consequences of the gag order laws coming out of state houses around America. Then Dan talks to Christine Emeran from the National Coalition Against Censorship about why books are coming under attack across the country (33:00). As always I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
"A Tennessee school board removed the graphic novel ‘Maus,’ about the Holocaust" (CNN)
"'Don't Say Gay' bill passes Florida Senate" (ABC)
The 1619 Project from the NY Times
Educational Gag Orders: Legislative Restrictions on the Freedom to Read, Learn, and Teach from PEN America. Lead author: Jonathan Friedman
Kids' Right to Read Action Kit from the National Coalition Against Censorship
Responding to Book Challenges: A Handbook for Teachers from the National Coalition Against Censorship
Youth Censorship Database from the National Coalition Against Censorship
"How a YA oral-sex scene touched off Texas' latest culture war" from Texas Tribune
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan interviews Monica Brady-Myerov, founder and CEO of Listenwise, a learning platform that helps teachers bring podcasts and other audio into the classroom. Before starting Listenwise, Monica was an award-winning public radio journalist, and Dan and Monica talk about what she learned about storytelling during those years. Then they discuss why schools need to do more to teach listening skills and how Listenwise is set up to do exactly that. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
Listenwise, a learning platform that brings audio into the classroom
A sample of Monica's reporting on the opioid crisis
Listen Wise: Teach Students to Be Better Listeners by Monica Brady-Myerov
The Student Podcast PODCAST, highlighting outstanding student work
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan chats with Molly Josephs, the adult who works on This Teenage Life, a podcast hosted by teens to talk about issues that matter to them. Dan and Molly discuss how TTL got its start, why student voices are more important than ever, and why the real goal is honest, productive conversation. They also talk about how teachers everywhere can (and should!) try out podcasting in the classroom. Always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the episode:
This Teenage Life's website, featuring resources that accompany the episodes
"Text Etiquette" (episode)
"Book Magic" (episode)
"Snacks" (episode)
Student projects at High Tech High
My own students podcasts
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan and special guest co-host Kim Dzwonkowski talk with Angela Hanscom about the importance of getting kids outside, away from overly structured activities and hovering adults. Angela is the best-selling author of Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children and the founder of Timbernook. Dan, Kim, and Angela talk about how our overly scheduled, overly supervised world is wrecking havoc on children's mental, emotional, and physical development, and why getting kids outside is the key to turning it around. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Also mentioned in this episode:
The REAL reason children fidget — and what we can do about it (TED Talk) by Angela Hanscom
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan talks with Ebonee Rice (@EboneeSpeaks), Senior VP of Educator Network at the News Literacy Project. They talk about the unprecedented amount of information at our fingertips, the danger of passive media consumption, the importance of understanding how news gets made, and the incredible work of the News Literacy Project.
Mentioned in the show:
Why do people claim things that can be easily disproven with a Google search?
Truth Decay, The RAND Corporation's insightful take on media literacy
Can you spot fake news before hitting “share”? Kids are learning and so can you by Fast Company
The News Literacy Project -- Start here for some amazing resources
Checkology, NewLitPro's flagship platform
NewsLit Nation, a fantastic group to join
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan talks with educator, author, and speaker Pernille Ripp (@pernilleripp) about the importance of developing young readers. For over a decade Pernille has run the Global Read Aloud, a six-week program that unites classrooms around a single text. Dan and Pernille discuss what it means to be a reader, helping our reluctant readers find books that speak to them, and why teachers need to listen to students about their reading needs. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
The Global Read Aloud, created and run by Pernille Ripp
Pernille Ripp on the web
Books:
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Amal Unbound by Aisha Saeed
The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman
When We Were Infinite by Kelly Loy Gilbert
Show Me a Sign by Ann Clare LeZotte
Black Boy Joy, edited by Kwame Mbalia
This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron
Healer of the Water Monster by Brian Young
In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan is joined by Colorado educator Julia Fliss to discuss the importance of cultivating globally-minded students in our increasingly interconnected world. Dan and Julia start by examining the power of learning additional languages as a portal into deeper cultural understanding. Then they discuss the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, local activism, and Julia's work with Girl Rising. As always I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
The UN's Sustainable Development Goals
Teach the SDGs
Inspire Citizens
Girl Rising
Julia Fliss on Twitter
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan hosts the always-candid Monise Seward (@MoniseLSeward), a special education teacher and interventionist. Living in Georgia, Monise had a front row seat to one of the most tumultuous years in American history and she comes on the pod to talk about teaching and learning during the pandemic, election denialism, historical ignorance, and what she's optimistic about. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan talks with educator, author, and big thinker Casey Jakubowski. They discuss rural education, the state of the teaching profession, the current debate over history class, and progressivism. As always I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Thinking About Teaching: A Rural Social Studies Teacher's Path to Strive for Excellence by Casey Jakubowski
Report: Why Rural Matters, 2018-19: The Time is Now from The Rural School and Community Trust
Dividing Paradise: Rural Inequality and the Diminishing American Dream by Jennifer Sherman
Senate Passes $1 Trillion Infrastructure Bill, Handing Biden a Bipartisan Win from the New York Times
Education in Rural California from EdSource
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan talks with Chris McNutt, an Ohio educator, the executive director of the Human Restoration Project, and a leading voice for a progressive, human-centered education. They talk about the manufactured myth of "learning loss", media literacy, and the incredible work of HRP. As always, I welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
From the Human Restoration Project
- Oh What a Tangled Web We Weave: How the Testing Industry Manufactured the "Learning Loss" Narrative by Chris McNutt
- Primer on Progressive Education
- Ungrading Handbook
- Evidence Journal (great alternative to traditional grading!)
- Microcredentialing and Coursework
HRP Podcast #95: Deciphering "Learning Loss" w/ Akil Bello
McKinsey's report on learning loss: "COVID-19 and student learning in the United States: The hurt could last a lifetime"
Music:
Track: Sunflower — Soyb [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/dG1U3NuR9Pk
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunflower
In which Dan wraps up the school year and this season of What's the Big Idea? by sitting down with six thoughtful and reflective students to discuss the year and the future. They share lessons on the past fifteen months, go deep on the pluses and minuses of social media, talk about whether or not they feel heard as young people, and describe what makes a good life. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Music: "Que Estraño Es" by Molo
In which Dan calls on Jessica Kirkland (@jkirk___), a high school English teacher in Virginia, to reflect on this unprecedented year. After describing what this year was like for her students, Jessica talks remote learning, learning "loss", diversity and inclusion, and how we should approach the next school year with student humanity in mind. As always, we welcome feedback on Twitter and Instagram @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Too Much Focus on ‘Learning Loss’ Will Be a Historic Mistake from Edutopia
Texas Pushes to Obscure the State’s History of Slavery and Racism from the New York Times
Distance learning changed California education. What’s here to stay? from EdSource
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo
In which Dan talks about the urgent need to protect LGBTQ students and empower teachers to become active allies. He's joined by Jean-Marie Navetta, Director of Learning and Inclusion at PFLAG. After discussing the troubling stream of anti-LGBTQ legislation from across the country, Dan and Jean-Marie examine ways in which schools can become more safe and inclusive for LGBTQ students. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show and additional resources:
2021 Slated to Become Worst Year for LGBTQ State Legislative Attacks from HRC
The GLSEN 2019 National School Climate Survey
Cultivating Respect: Safe Schools For All from PFLAG
Supporting LGBTQ Youth of Color from GLSEN
Best Practices for Serving LGBTQ Students from Learning for Justice
PFLAG's Guide to Becoming a Straight Ally
Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth from the Trevor Project
In which Dan discusses what makes meaningful assessment with Tyler Rablin (@Mr_Rablin), an English teacher and instructional coach in Washington state. They talk student voice in the assessment process, why quality feedback matters and why sometimes students just won't take the feedback, and how ideas like growth mindset and grit can be used to get teachers off the hook for our bad practices. As always hit us up with questions and comments on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Tyler Rablin's professional website
Tyler's grade book template -- organized by skill, not assignment
Tyler's student conferences template
Seven reasons for standard-based grading from Edutopia
The debate over growth mindset from the Scientific American
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo
In which Dan kicks off a mini-series on assessment by talking with Jay McTighe (@jaymctighe), co-creator of Understanding by Design and someone who's done lots of thinking about what constitutes authentic and meaningful assessment. They talk about performance tasks, project-based learning, feedback, rubrics, and why teaching should be more like coaching. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned on the show:
Understanding by Design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe
What is a Performance Task? by Jay McTighe?
Designing Authentic Performance Tasks and Projects by Jay McTighe
Deep Virtual Learning by Jay McTighe, Harvey Silver, and Matthew Perini
Three Key Questions on Measuring Learning by Jay McTighe
Performance Task PD with Jay McTighe
Assessing What Matters Most: Developing Authentic Performance Tasks (video)
Using Webb's Depth of Knowledge from Edutopia
Music: "Que Es Extraño" by Molo
In which Dan talks financial literacy with Yanely Espinal (@missbehelpful) from Next Gen Personal Finance. Yanely makes the case that not only is financial literacy essential in schools, it also needs to be responsive to the economic realities that students and families are facing right now. Dan and Yanely talk about the difference between mandated and embedded curriculum, the power of gamification, and when Teach For America is truly effective. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned on the show:
Next Gen Personal Finance
"More states are forcing students to study personal finance. It’s a waste of time." Timothy Ogden, Washington Post, April 23, 2019
"Let’s stop the argument that financial education doesn’t work" Bill Hensley, CNBC June 13, 2019
"Do Financial Literacy Courses Work?" Susannah Snider, US News and World Report, August 28, 2018
Music: "Que Extraño Es" by Molo
In which Dan discusses the why, the what, and the how of media and digital literacy with Kerri Redding (@nandikerri), photographer and media educator at Washington International School. They dissect the four principles of media literacy, wonder why schools are so far behind on this, and discuss life on the early internet. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Media Literacy Standards to Counter Truth Decay by RAND Corporation
The SIFT Method for evaluating digital sources by Mike Caulfield
Check, Please: a fact and source-check course from Mike Caulfield
National Society for Media Literacy Education
Media Education Lab
Making Thinking Visible from Harvard's Project Zero
The Binti Graphic Novel Series by Nnedi Okorafor
They Called Us Enemy by George Takei
Music: "Que Extraño Es" by Molo
In which Dan talks conceptual learning, and reframing so much of what we do in education with Kayla Duncan (@MrsKaylaDuncan) and Trevor Aleo (@MrAleoSays). They're part of a team that authored an upcoming book that's not afraid to take on big, important issues in education. We talk transfer, going slow to go fast, teacher credibility, and what it's like to write an education book. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Learning That Transfers: Designing Curriculum for a Changing World by Julie Stern, Krista Ferraro, Kayla Duncan, and Trevor Aleo
Learning That Transfers Online Courses
Understanding By Design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe
Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise
In which Dan talks about education in the context of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. He's joined by Joel Westheimer (@joelwestheimer), professor of education at the University of Ottawa and someone's who done lots of thinking and writing about civics education. They talk about the Canadian view of the attack, the meaning of civics education, and how a lack of media literacy might be education's biggest blindspot. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
What Kind of Citizen? Educating Our Children For the Common Good by Joel Westheimer
Pledging Allegiance: The Politics of Patriotism in American's Schools by Joel Westheimer
Origins of Totalitarianism by Hannah Arendt
Media Literacy on Common Sense Media
Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise
In which Dan weighs what 2020 taught us about many of the tenets of education. He's joined by Amy Fast (@fastcrayon), principal of McMinnville High School in Oregon, to take part in "Over, Under, or Properly Rated?", a game of evaluation and reflection. They talk synchronous vs asynchronous, teacher content knowledge, parental involvement, college prep, and more. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd.
Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise
In which Dan talks with Jinnie Spiegler, director of Curriculum and Training at the Anti-Defamation League. If 2020 has shown us anything, it's the importance of being able to talk about race in the classroom. But too often teachers don't. We're limited by feelings of discomfort or defensiveness, the pressures of curriculum pacing, or maybe we just don't see it as our job. This is a mistake and a missed opportunity. Luckily, we're supported by organizations like the Anti-Defamation League. Dan and Jinnie discuss teacher discomfort, how leadership can support us, and why student action is so crucial.
Visit the ADL for incredible resources for creating the right classroom environment for those difficult conversations.
Mentioned in the show:
Anti-Defamation League: Resources for Educators, Parents & Families
Anti-Defamation League: How Should I Talk about Race in My Mostly White Classroom?
Education Week: Are America's Schools Ready for Tough Talk on Racism?
Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise
In which Dan speaks with Kim Marshall, a retired teacher and principal, on his career and reflections on education and leadership. Kim is now a consultant and publisher of the excellent Marshall Memo, a weekly roundup of ideas and research in K-12 education. Dan and Kim talk about busing in Boston in the 1970s, how you know when you're ready to move into administration, and what he's learned from spending every Sunday for years reading education articles. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
"The Desegregation of a Boston Classroom" by Kim Marshall, Learning, September 1975
"Class Warfare in the Boston Schools" by Kim Marshall, Harvard, February 1975
"Pushing Back on Outmoded Beliefs" by Kim Marshall in Leaderboard, Michigan Association of School Boards, Spring 2019
The Best of the Marshall Memo (for purchase) and a free chapter
Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise
In which Dan examines the importance of talking with students about important issues facing America, including the upcoming election, race, inequality, and hard historical truths. Dan is first joined by Karen Murphy from Facing History and Ourselves to talk about the work of that organization in helping teachers navigate hard history and sensitive current events (4:45). Then he's joined by Rhode Island history teacher Jon Gold to talk morality, perspectives, and why being "neutral" in the classroom just won't cut it (37:00). As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
Mentioned in the show:
Facing History and Ourselves: Fostering Civil Discourse and Current Events Teacher Check List
Jon Gold's excellent articles for Teaching Tolerance
Music: "Que Extrano Es" by Molo courtesy of Tribe of Noise
In which Dan chats with Nate Bowling, history and government teacher and big thinker. Nate spent over a decade in public schools in Washington state, where, in 2016, he was named the Teacher of Year, and was one of four finalists for national teacher of the year. He now works at an international school in Abu Dhabi. They talk politics, policy, the value of liberal arts, America’s place in the world, and how living outside the U.S. deepens your perspective.
As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks with Monise Seward, a grade 6 special education teacher in Georgia. In this time of great turmoil and uncertainty, they talk Covid, BLM, textbooks, and how special education is a portal into many of the larger issues facing education. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan examines two very different approaches to teaching Literature in middle and high schools today. He's joined by Jasmine Lane and Jarred Amato to examine the "literary canon", the role of choice in the classroom, and books that have left an impression on these two educators. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan discusses the importance of understanding historical context, especially during times of great change and crisis. He's joined by Matt, the host of the excellent Reflecting History podcast to talk about what it means to truly 'understand' history, the importance of creating and reading primary sources, and the role of social media in our understanding. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan reaches out to educators from different contexts and with different perspectives, and asks them for their answer to the question, 'What has the Covid crisis taught you about education?' Some really powerful stuff here. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks with Laura England, an IB teacher who's done a ton of thinking about projects and what they mean for student learning. They talk about what we mean by 'project', process vs product, and why establishing a classroom culture of good questions is so important. As always we welcome comments on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks about the various ways that school might happen in the fall with Chris Chiang, a teacher in northern California's Bay Area. Chris has kept his eye on schools in Europe and Asia and he has an interesting perspective, as well as practical tips for school administrators, teachers, and communities they start thinking about August and September. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks with Graham Fletcher, a math specialist who presents to schools and teachers around the globe about the need to slow down and emphasize deep, conceptual learning. They talk about what it means to understand math, our overstuffed curriculums, and why slowing down will help us go fast. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan discusses school belief systems, student agency, and the need for all of us to advance the conversation with Missy Emler, owner of Modern Learners. A self-described 'rebel' of progressive education, Missy offers a unique and insightful perspective on the urgency of real changes to education in the face of the coronavirus crisis. As always, we welcome comments on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan examines the question of schools who can't simply move to online learning in this time of coronavirus and closures. He talks with Kecia McDonald, a middle school educator in Hawaii, about equity, community, and what's really important to students in this time of crisis. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks with six teachers from American School in Japan, where they've done lots of thinking and experimenting with online learning. Teachers from across the K-12 school discuss the adjustment to digital, social-emotional support for their students, and what advice they'd give American schools now thinking about the move to online. As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan talks with Jesse Stommel of University of Mary Washington in Virginia, and someone who has done a ton of thinking about the intersection of pedagogy, purpose, equity, and life online. They talk about the role of schools during the coronavirus crisis, the ‘pivot’ to online learning, ungrading, and the best line from the greatest Fleetwood Mac cover song. Contact us on Twitter @BigIdeaEd with comments and questions.
In which Dan investigates the impact of the coronavirus on learning and explores the possibilities of online learning. First he interviews a teacher from Seattle who's going through the uncertainty of a school closure (2:40) before talking about online learning around the country with a reporter from EdSurge (21:50). Finally, he speaks with two teachers who have some great advice for teachers and administrators about online learning (36:15). As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan wants you to know all about the Human Restoration Project, a grass-roots progressive education organization. After a brief description of the organization, Dan talks with Nick Covington, one of its leaders, about learning, grades, the 'evidence-based movement', and fatherhood. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan discusses crucial issues facing math education with Stanford University professor Dr. Jo Boaler, author of 'Limitless Mind'. They talk growth mindset, math's obsession with testing, the overabundance of content in most school courses, and the role of colleges and universities in addressing these problems. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan interviews John Warner, author of Why They Can't Write: Killing the Five Paragraph Essay and Other Necessities. Dan and John talk about student choice, the purpose of writing in schools, the often surface-level assignments given in schools today, and the writer inside every student and teacher. As always comments and questions are welcome on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan spends an afternoon at Design39Campus in San Diego to find how they're doing education differently. Dan explores the campus, talks to teachers and students, and discovers an impressive amount of flexibility, teacher and student autonomy, and community buy-in. As always, comments and questions are welcome on Twitter @BigIdeaEd.
In which Dan interviews Sara Gilliam, co-author of the new edition of 'Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls'. Dan and Sara discuss the differences between adolescent girls in the 90s and now (5:15), over scheduling (14:00), how girls view school (23:30), and the effects of school shootings on teen girls (30:00). As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd. Music today from Valencia Bey via Tribe of Noise.
In which Dan discusses the social and emotional well-being of our students with two school psychologists. We start off with a discussion about student sleep (or lack thereof) before moving on to academic pressure on the modern student. We also talk the difficulties of parenting in this high-pressure world, vulnerable students, and tell a few stories about our own kids. As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan examines the place of civics education in a democracy and the state of civics ed in America today. First he's joined by Emily Cardinali, who reported for NPR last year, to talk about what we mean by 'civics' and where civics in American classrooms stands today (3:50). Then he speaks with Joel Westheimer, researcher and professor at the University of Ottawa, to talk about why civics is so vital in a democratic society (20:00). Comments and questions are welcome on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan interviews Julie Stern, one of America's foremost experts and advocates of concept-based teaching and learning. They discuss how Julie got into this (2:15), education's obsession with topics (6:55), how a concept focus leads to deeper learning (9:30), the importance of being open and transparent with students (14:30), the pace of learning (18:30), and the nature of assessment (23:10). As always, we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan explores concept-based education and how it can drive deeper learning and critical thinking in the classroom and beyond. Relying on the work of Lynn Erickson and Julie Stern, Dan breaks down what we mean by 'concept-based' learning (2:10) and how it's different from the more common topical approach found in schools. Then Dan interviews Trevor Aleo, an English teacher making concept-based teaching and learning a reality in his high school English class (7:30). As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan discusses gun violence--and the fear of it--in American schools today. After an overview of the stats and the recent increased spending to stop guns in schools (2:15), Dan weighs in on the idea to arm teachers in the classroom (6:50). Then he's joined by three high school students who have done some serious thinking and taken action on guns in schools (8:30). As always we welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan explores the value and limitation of bringing more education research into the classroom. Can evidence-based practices elevate education, and if so, how much? Dan breaks down what we mean by evidence and discusses some arguments for and against more evidence-based teaching (0:55). Then he's joined by Zach Groshell, a teacher in Nanjing and Ph.D student to discuss this topic (8:05). As always, we welcome comments, insights, and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan discusses the potential of using digital portfolios as a meaningful, holistic measure of student success and a more accurate guide in college admissions. Dan talks about the recent Varsity Blues scandal (1:00), what we mean when we say 'digital portfolio' (3:55), and then speaks with educators from Animas High School in Colorado about their experience with portfolios (8:30). We welcome comments and questions on Twitter @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan discusses what it means to teach the Holocaust in 2019. Given the recent behavior by a group of high school students in Newport, California, now is a great time to reconsider how the Holocaust is taught and why we even do it in the first place.
Dan talks about that incident in Newport (1:10), some bizarre Holocaust education stuff from the Middle East (2:50), and research about teaching the Holocaust (5:45). Then, he's joined by two teachers doing some innovative Holocaust education with a unique community partner (8:40).
Comments, questions, complaints? Join the conversation on Twitter: @BigIdeaEd
In which Dan spends 15 minutes discussing the wonders of interdisciplinary learning. Do you really understand the term? Have you tried it out and missed the mark? Dan talks about the why (6:30) and the how (10:30) of helping students connect subjects and see the world for the complex place that it is.
Leave feedback on the show on Twitter: @BigIdeaEd
Comments, personal experience, complaints, and questions are always welcome.