TakingCTRL in Ed Tech

Data can elicit many responses from individuals that work in education, depending on experience and emphasis when it comes to working with it.

In our episode we discuss what data is, and it's practical applications for all educational professionals to make sense of what is happening in their academic landscape in which they work. Educational Administrators, this one's especially for you!

Don't pull the plug on this episode yet-- you may find yourself actually inspired. This is data without tears on Taking Ctrl in Ed Tech!

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In this episode, host Dr. Samantha Kozar discusses a very difficult topic for many educational professionals: The importance of setting boundaries, saying no, and safeguarding yourself from burnout. Whether you are a classroom teacher or an educational administrator, this podcast is for you! So grab your coffee, a tea, or lace up your sneakers and grab your earbuds to listen in stride as Dr. Kozar discusses this critical concept that may be just what you need to hear to keep you happy, healthy, and in the profession you love.

Join the Conversation! Please share your "A-Ha!" moments and what you are going to say “no” to this academic year. Record a voice memo on your phone and send it via email. I'll include them in a future podcast.

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Welcome to today's episode of They All Failed the Test. Now what? Using Failure & Flaws for Fabulous Design where we explore the topic of failure. Failure is often perceived as a negative experience, but it can also be a valuable opportunity for growth and learning, particularly for us as educational professionals who need to continue to learn and grow in the face of emerging technologies like widespread AI use. In this episode, we explore my experience helping others navigate planning failures and discuss ways we can turn failure and flaws in our designs and instructional approaches into more positive outcomes for our learners. We'll discuss the importance of embracing failure and how it can help us become more resilient and successful in the long run, and help us perfect human-centered design for learning. So sit back, relax, and join us as we delve into the subject of failure.

Practical Tips to Help Teachers Handle Whole-Class Failures 1) Recognize that it's a normal situation and don't take it personally. Remember that every teacher has faced this at some point. 2) Analyze the root cause of the failure. Look at the exam questions, study materials, and classroom teaching methods to determine where the problem might have arisen. 3) Create an action plan. Develop a strategy to address the areas where the students struggled and make changes to the study materials and teaching methods. This does notmean that you die on the hill of, "It's not me, it's them" mindset. 4) Stop and slow down. Re-teach and provide extra support as necessary. Offer extra help sessions, homework assignments, and review sessions to ensure that students have a clear understanding of the material whereby the process, not the product, is emphasized. 5) Encourage and motivate the students. Let the students know that you believe in them and that they can succeed. Create a positive classroom atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking questions and seeking help, rather than being punished for making the crucial mistakes so necessary for the learning process. Outro (4:30-5:00): That's all for today's episode of “Teaching Tips.” Remember, when the entire class fails an exam, it's a chance to reflect, adjust, and help your students succeed. We hope this episode was helpful. Until next time, keep teaching!

What is the difference between an 'okay' question and a 'great' question? How do we use questioning strategies to invite innovation in our learning spaces, our teams, our projects, and even in our professional relationships?

In this episode we will discuss the power of questions and how 5 simple principles can be used in practice to invite innovation and creativity in your workspace.

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Twitter: @CTRLTaking

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Think about the best learning experience you've ever had. What was it like for you? Consider the classroom environment--the topic you were learning about--the activities you were completing--the people you were learning with and from--We bet the textbook you used or the slide deck (if applicable!) you saw in class wasn't in the forefront of your mind. 

How educators and instructional designers intentionally create great learning experiences in the planning process is pivotal; it helps to recognize and anticipate gaps that could exist to help students reach their goals and the instructor's intent for learning. Join us on this episode as we discuss how we take students from their present levels of performance and move them across gaps to reach their goals. 

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Twitter: @CtrlTaking

Have you ever considered your grading structures and felt, "There has got to be another way!" How can educators and instructional settings usher in changes in our learning environments that embrace technology, and future-ready competencies that enhance the learning experience but measure them against the archaic grading systems of the past?

In this podcast, host Dr. Samantha Kozar discusses rethinking our approach to traditional grading structures and assessment to get to what matters most: Helping students learn.

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Facebook Groups: https://facebook.com/groups/TakingCTRL/

Twitter: @CtrlTaking

"What is an evidenced-based practice or program? What makes them evidenced-based? How do I select and implement one?" These are the common questions often asked by school leaders, instructional coaches, and teachers. We all have the same goal in mind: Student improvement, but how we get there differs. Let's delve into a common vehicle for student improvement--evidenced-based practices and programs (EBPs)--and discuss the terminology, challenges, and successes of selecting and implementing ones that benefit students and teachers. 

Increase effectiveness, avoid "initiative overload," and waste less time and resources. 

Resources: 

1. Peabody Institute at Vanderbilt University-Evidenced-based practices

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Email: [email protected] 

Facebook Groups: https://facebook.com/groups/TakingCTRL/

Twitter: @CtrlTaking