Learning Unboxed

Fred Rogers was an incredible learning scientist before the term even existed. That’s the basis of Ryan Rydzewski’s and Gregg Behr’s new book, “When You Wonder, You're Learning: Mister Rogers' Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids.” Today they join the show to share what they learned while writing the book.Fred engineered every aspect of Mr. Rogers' neighborhood to help kids develop tools for learning. He combined familiarity with mystery to create a magical learning environment. He deeply listened to children through their letters to him, reflecting their stories back to them in his episodes. He taught kids to be curious about the world by starting with what they were familiar with in their own lives. Perhaps most importantly, he just kept showing up. Kids and adults knew that they could count on Mr. Rogers.Ryan and Gregg share the research that now backs up Fred Roger’s teaching style. They also spotlight his emphasis on “neighborhood” and inclusion. If you’ve ever watched Mr. Rogers put on his sweater and tie his shoes, you’re going to love this episode.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:Research on curiosity and learning The role community plays in educationHow Mr. Rogers’ took on big topics like race and disabilityResources:Read Ryan and Gregg’s book: “When You Wonder, You're Learning: Mister Rogers' Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids”Produced by NOVA Media

Today we’re joined by Quamid Francis, the former Executive Director of City Year New York. His program places and supports Student Success Coaches in 17 New York City public schools. The Student Success Coaches’ number one priority is to build trusting relationships with students. Based on these trusting relationships, student attendance increases, behavioral incidences decrease, and entire families get connected to services they need.Chances are you’ve heard of City Year and the way they help students, families, and schools. After all, they have locations all across the US. But what you may not know is how much they focus on the Student Success Coaches in addition to their students. Through “Life After City Year,” coaches are connected with resources they need for their post-City Year career. Join us as we discuss how City Year supports and engages the entire community, including their coach alum, knowing that a healthy, involved community is essential for student success.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How social, emotional, and academic skill development are inextricably linked.The concept of “Whole School, Whole Child” as well as “Community Schools.”City Year New York’s effort to help Student Success Coaches with their post-City Year career.Resources:Learn more about City Year New York. To learn more about City Year in general go to CityYear.org.Read City Year New York’s “The Power of Student Success Coaches in Schools” playbook, developed with support from the Lego Foundation.Follow City Year on Instagram: @CityYearProduced by NOVA Media

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we are thrilled to welcome Ellen Erlanger and Kathy Meyer, co-directors of professional learning at the Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership. They bring a wealth of experience and insights into the transformative power of authentic learning—a pedagogical approach that bridges academic content with real-world applications, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.Ellen and Kathy delve into the essentials of authentic learning, emphasizing its role in making education irresistible and impactful. They share compelling examples from their work, showcasing how projects with real-world significance not only enhance student engagement but also address current challenges in education, such as student mental health. The conversation explores the importance of leadership support and systemic changes to sustain these practices, offering hope and practical advice for educators looking to make a difference.Join us to discover how authentic learning can transform educational experiences, fostering a generation of learners equipped to tackle real-world problems with creativity and resilience. Ellen and Kathy's stories and strategies inspire a reimagined approach to teaching and learning, highlighting the crucial steps toward a more engaging, relevant, and fulfilling education for all students.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The concept and importance of authentic learning in today's educational landscape.Practical examples of authentic learning in action and its positive impacts on students.Strategies for overcoming challenges and implementing authentic learning, including the role of leadership and systemic change.Resources:Learn more at partnershipsforall.orgFollow Partnerships for Authentic Learning & Leadership on YouTubeProduced by NOVA Media

Jim Bailey, co-founder and executive director at Rock Tree Sky, champions the power of caring relationships in education. He discusses how adults can inspire young learners by stepping back from traditional teaching roles. The conversation covers Rock Tree Sky's unique self-directed learning model and innovative partnerships with local school districts. Bailey highlights the importance of hands-on projects and community engagement, advocating for a educational shift that prioritizes real-world experiences and personalized learning pathways.

Stephanie Lewis, Director of Relationships at Remake Learning, shares insights on transforming education in Pittsburgh. The network, launched in 2007, unites over 1,200 educators and innovators to create community-focused learning experiences. Lewis discusses the importance of youth voices and highlights initiatives like the Moonshot Grant Program and Remake Learning Days festival. The conversation emphasizes collaboration and the need for educational ecosystems that adapt to modern demands, showcasing how collective imagination can drive meaningful change in learning.

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we have the pleasure of hosting Tiffany Nelson, the Director of Programs and Evaluation at Wings of Hope. Wings of Hope, a global humanitarian organization, has been utilizing aviation to impact vulnerable communities since 1962. Our main topic of discussion is their innovative SOAR into STEM program, which integrates aviation and STEM education to redefine educational and career pathways for students.Tiffany shares the intriguing journey of Wings of Hope and the development of the SOAR into STEM program, highlighting its unique approach to addressing the shortage of young talent in aviation. We dive into the program's structure, content, and its focus on providing hands-on, practical learning experiences. The conversation reveals how the program covers various facets of aviation, including aerodynamics, airplane maintenance, and drone education, aimed at making aviation careers more accessible to students.This episode also sheds light on the challenges and adaptations the program faced, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it continues to evolve to meet students' needs. Tiffany's insights provide valuable advice for educators on integrating real-world applications into STEM education and the importance of community partnerships in enhancing learning experiences. Join us to discover how Wings of Hope is shaping the future of aviation through education and what educators can learn from their model.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The history and mission of Wings of Hope in global humanitarian effortsThe development and structure of the SOAR into STEM programThe significance of integrating aviation with STEM educationOvercoming challenges in the program, especially during the pandemicStrategies for educators to implement real-world STEM applicationsThe role of partnerships and community in enhancing STEM educationResources:Learn more at wingsofhope.ngoCheck out SOAR into STEMFollow Wings of Hope on Instagram: @wingsofhope.ngoProduced by NOVA Media

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we're exploring the inspiring world of educational innovation with Ian Shimizu, the navigator at Inspire High, a pioneering edtech program based in Japan. Inspire High is revolutionizing the way teenagers connect with the world, offering interactive sessions with creative minds from diverse fields. It's about bringing real-life stories and experiences into the classroom, and Ian is at the forefront of this educational transformation.Ian shares his journey with Inspire High, from its inception to its current state, discussing the challenges and triumphs of connecting students globally. We delve into the program's unique approach, which integrates interactive quizzes, guided conversations, and a platform for cross-school interaction. This episode is not just about what Inspire High does; it's about the broader vision of empowering students to realize their potential and make informed life choices.Join us to hear Ian's insights on the future of education, the importance of real-world connections in learning, and the impact of programs like Inspire High on students and teachers alike. It's an enlightening conversation for anyone passionate about the future of education and the role technology plays in shaping it.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The groundbreaking approach of Inspire High in connecting teenagers with global innovators for real-world learning experiences.Ian Shimizu's journey and the evolution of Inspire High, reflecting his educational insights and aspirations.The unique interactive learning methods and global connectivity fostered by Inspire High through its engaging educational platform.The challenges and adaptive strategies in the evolving landscape of educational technology as experienced by Inspire High.Strategies for empowering students and educators, highlighting the importance of student autonomy and adaptive learning environments.Resources:Check out Inspire High: inspirehigh.comConnect with Ian Shimizu on LinkedInProduced by NOVA Media

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we have the pleasure of hosting Meagan Naraine, the co-founder of Culturally Relevant Science (CRS). CRS is an innovative non-profit organization dedicated to making STEM education more inclusive and engaging for underrepresented groups. Founded as a YouTube channel during the pandemic, CRS has grown significantly, offering a range of educational resources that combine rigorous learning with elements of pop culture and entertainment.Meagan shares the inspiring story behind CRS, starting from its humble beginnings with simple equipment to creating animated videos featuring Black male teachers and students from diverse backgrounds. The content is crafted to be culturally relevant, resonating with students through familiar dialects, clothing, and current trends. She also discusses the expansion of CRS from individual videos to complete course materials, aiming to support teachers and enhance student engagement throughout the school year.Tune in to learn about the challenges and successes of Culturally Relevant Science, and how Meagan and her team are revolutionizing STEM education by emphasizing relatability and inclusivity. Discover the impact of CRS’s approach on students' understanding and confidence in science, and how they're making a difference in classrooms around the world.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The inception and evolution of Culturally Relevant Science (CRS) as an innovative educational resourceThe significance of culturally relevant content in engaging underrepresented students in STEMThe impact of CRS's approach on student engagement and understanding in scienceChallenges and learning experiences in developing and implementing CRS in educational settingsFuture goals and aspirations of CRS in promoting equity in STEM educationResources:Learn more at crsci.orgConnect with Meagan on LinkedInWatch Culturally Relevant Science on YouTubeProduced by NOVA Media

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we have the pleasure of speaking with Abdul Matheen, the visionary CEO of Project You. Abdul's journey from aeronautical engineering to education has led to the creation of an innovative approach to learning, focusing on the real-world application of academic knowledge.Abdul discusses Project You's unique 'Build and Guild' program, designed to bridge the gap between conventional schooling and practical industry experience. The program, impacting over 7000 youth, integrates social-emotional learning with hands-on projects, providing students with a more engaging and relevant educational experience.Join us as we delve into the world of experiential learning with Abdul Matheen. We explore the importance of industry and school partnerships, the role of educators in facilitating transformative experiences, and how Project You's approach is shaping the future of education in countries like the UAE, Australia, Malaysia, and Germany.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The journey from aeronautical engineering to educational innovation.The "Build and Guild" program's integration of social-emotional learning with real-world industry projects.Challenges in scaling educational programs and continuous learning in leadership.The importance of industry and school partnerships in experiential learning.The global reach and impact of Project You's educational frameworks.Resources:Learn more at projectyoux.orgConnect with Abdul on LinkedInProduced by NOVA Media

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore the transformative power of workforce development in education with Kelly Cassaro, Chief of Learning at Generation. Generation is a remarkable nonprofit that trains adults for careers that were previously out of reach, helping to foster economic mobility on a global scale.Kelly shares the groundbreaking methodologies of Generation, which aligns job readiness training with employer needs, ensuring that graduates are not just educated but truly prepared for the workforce. We delve into their unique approach, which includes comprehensive training programs, strong mentorship, and a focus on both technical and behavioral skills.Join us as we discuss Kelly's insights on bridging the gap between education and employment, her upcoming book 'Shift Teaching Forward,' and the crucial role of social-emotional skills in the classroom. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of work and education.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:Generation’s unique workforce development approachThe challenges and innovations in modern employmentEffective curriculum design strategiesThe integration of social-emotional skills in educationInsights from Kelly Cassaro's upcoming book 'Shift Teaching Forward'Resources:Learn more at generation.orgFollow Kelly’s work at kellycassaro.comRead: Shift Teaching ForwardConnect with Kelly on LinkedInProduced by NOVA Media