The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast

Discover how teachers can transform student questionnaires into powerful relationship-building tools. By inputting responses into a spreadsheet, educators maintain and enhance connections throughout the year. This method of organizing student information not only fosters deeper relationships but also improves communication and support tailored to individual needs. Tune in to explore effective strategies for connecting with students on a more personal level!

Retrieval practice is the act of trying to recall something you learned from memory by doing things like taking a test or using flashcards instead of just looking at, rereading, or reviewing the information. When we study with retrieval, we learn and remember things much better than we do by other review methods. So how do we add more to our classrooms? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Pooja Agarwal, editor of the book Smart Teaching Stronger Learning, and two of the book's authors, Dr. Janell Blunt and Dr. Michelle Rivers, to learn nine simple, easy, and fun retrieval strategies that can be added to any lesson. Thanks to Zearn and EVERFI for sponsoring this episode. To read a full transcript of this episode and find links to more retrieval practice resources, visit cultofpedagogy.com/retrieval-in-action.

Join Susie Bell, Heather Messer, and Beth Blankenship as they dive into the world of competency-based learning. Susie leads programming at MTC, while Heather champions personalized instruction in Wisconsin, and Beth coordinates innovative learner records in Virginia. They discuss how this approach redefines grading, focuses on student engagement, and promotes critical thinking. The conversation highlights real classroom examples, the importance of rubrics, and how to support independent growth—transforming traditional educational models.

In a lively discussion, Matthew Johnson, an English teacher and author of *Good Grammar*, shares his innovative strategies for making grammar instruction engaging and inclusive. He critiques traditional, outdated methods, advocating for a joyful and curiosity-driven approach to learning grammar. Johnson discusses the importance of connecting grammar to real-world applications and emphasizes the need for personal expression in an AI-influenced landscape. He reveals how these fresh perspectives have transformed his classroom, making grammar a student's favorite subject.

Discover how incorporating meaningful hand gestures can elevate the learning experience. Learn about iconic and metaphoric gestures, and delve into practical examples that enhance understanding. This engaging approach not only improves comprehension but also promotes active learning among students.

Discover five powerful listening techniques that can transform your conversations and relationships. Learn how to use backchanneling and open-ended questions to encourage deeper discussions. Discover the art of strategic silence and how nonverbal cues impact engagement. Explore the importance of thoughtful questioning and reflection for stronger connections. Ultimately, genuine listening fosters an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and understood.

Discover a fun strategy to enhance student participation using engaging icons. This approach transforms classroom activities by making volunteering more dynamic and inclusive. Learn a workshop example that showcases how icons can create a lively and balanced learning environment. Perfect for educators looking to boost engagement!

Recent political pressures have put Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in jeopardy. Educators discuss how to navigate these changes while maintaining effective teaching methods. Strategies that foster empathy and critical thinking are explored, along with brain-based techniques like mnemonics to enhance learning. The importance of Universal Design for Learning is emphasized, alongside innovative ways to involve families in the educational process. Despite challenges, core inclusive practices remain vital for creating welcoming learning environments.

Robert Barnett, co-founder of the Modern Classrooms Project and author of "Meet Every Learner's Needs," shares innovative strategies for managing student absences. He discusses the importance of recorded lessons and personalized instruction to help students catch up seamlessly. Barnett emphasizes a self-paced learning approach that incorporates technology to boost engagement. He gives practical tips for blending tech with traditional teaching, ensuring that all students can succeed—absent or present. It's a fresh look at making learning accessible for everyone!

Frequent quizzing can be a game-changer in education! Research shows that regular, low-stakes quizzes significantly boost retention and comprehension. They enhance long-term learning by reinforcing material and transforming study habits. Educators are encouraged to use quizzes positively, framing them as tools for growth rather than just tests. This approach not only makes learning more effective but also helps students retain more knowledge over time.