The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Amy Tondreau, an assistant professor specializing in literacy, and Laurie Rabinowitz, an education studies professor with a background in special education, share their insights on disability-sustaining pedagogy. They argue that disability should be viewed as a cultural identity rather than a deficit, offering practical strategies to create inclusive and empowering classrooms. The conversation delves into the importance of representation, effective communication between educators, and approaches to embrace diverse learning needs.

In this enlightening discussion, the focus is on how teachers can unleash their inner 'dork' to create a more engaging classroom. By embracing vulnerability, educators can model risk-taking behaviors, making it easier for shy students to participate. The use of interactive activities invites fun and connection, transforming the traditional learning environment. A clever nod to using tools like Studio for better organization also highlights practical strategies for fostering student success. Get ready to encourage a culture of bravery in your classroom!

bink jones, a restorative justice educator, and Alex Shevrin Venet, a trauma-informed consultant, dive into the complexities of school discipline reform. They address the frustrating breakdown of discipline systems that leave teachers feeling unsupported. Both guests emphasize the misinterpretations of restorative practices and advocate for community-building strategies over punitive measures. They also highlight the need for effective training to create safe, respectful classrooms, offering hopeful paths for educators striving for positive change.

Discover the importance of using formative assessments to refine teaching strategies. With real-time feedback, you can pinpoint where students struggle and tailor your approach accordingly. Learn the value of targeted interventions and ensuring their effectiveness. It's all about maximizing learning opportunities and not just moving on after a poor performance. This insightful discussion emphasizes adapting your methods for better student outcomes!

Tony Frontier, an educator and author specializing in curriculum design and AI integration, shares valuable insights on navigating the balance between AI and academic integrity. He discusses practical strategies for encouraging responsible AI use in classrooms, noting the importance of transparency and supportive learning environments. Frontier emphasizes rethinking traditional assignments, fostering student accountability, and promoting critical thinking through innovative approaches. His insights aim to equip educators with the tools to adapt to this new educational landscape.

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.