Getting Smart Podcast

Mason and Nate discuss the innovative transformation of dead malls into community hubs, highlighting the importance of connection in a tech-driven world. They explore the evolving role of media literacy amid information overload and the implications of a new executive order on AI in education. The decline of public school enrollment sparks a conversation about repurposing school facilities. They also share cultural insights from Ireland, emphasizing the significance of poetry and music in fostering community. Challenges in early education are addressed with a call for collaborative solutions.

Kathleen DeLaski, author of 'Who Needs College Anymore?', dives into the shifting landscape of higher education. She challenges the necessity of a traditional college degree, advocating for alternatives like apprenticeships and dual enrollment. DeLaski highlights the impact of the Great Recession and AI on educational values and job readiness. The conversation explores how practical experience is becoming the key to career advancement, suggesting that four-year degrees may not be the only path to success in today's world.

Will Richardson, co-founder of The Big Questions Institute, dives into the evolving role of education amidst global challenges. He emphasizes the urgent need to repair human and ecological relationships. Discussion includes preparing students emotionally and spiritually for uncertainty and fostering a mindset of curiosity. Richardson critiques traditional education models, advocating for a shift towards community engagement and collective responsibility. This conversation invites educators to reimagine learning as a means of resilience and hope in chaotic times.

Sara Schapiro, the Director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation, dives into the need for increased research and development in education. She discusses the stark underfunding compared to healthcare and the role of federal and state support in fostering innovation. Schapiro highlights the importance of interoperable data systems and evidence-based practices. With insights on venture capital's impact on EdTech, she urges collaboration among educators, policymakers, and parents to advocate for stronger R&D, ensuring every student thrives in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Explore how AI is transforming educational environments and enhancing team efficiency. Discover New Zealand's innovative competency-based education and the value of micro-credentialing. The discussion also highlights the importance of community-driven learning and the unique technological adoption lessons from the Amish. Delve into the challenges of navigating information overload in the AI era and the crucial role of human connections amidst rapid technological changes. This engaging dialogue provides valuable insights for educators and lifelong learners.

Isabelle Hau, Executive Director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning and author of Love to Learn, discusses the transformative power of relational intelligence in education. She emphasizes the shift from traditional metrics like GPA to focusing on emotional connections and social-emotional learning. Hau addresses the growing 'relational crisis' influenced by technology, urging awareness of 'technoference.' She highlights micro schools as innovative solutions that foster personalized learning and community engagement, enhancing the overall educational experience.

Don Wettrick, CEO of the StartEdUp Foundation, champions entrepreneurial education by transforming high school students into proactive problem solvers. He discusses leveraging AI to enhance opportunity recognition and design thinking skills. Wettrick emphasizes entrepreneurship as a universal skill set useful across various careers. He highlights the Innovate Within pitch competition, which encourages tackling real-world problems and the creation of innovation hubs in schools. His insights inspire young entrepreneurs to engage in meaningful challenges and foster community connections.

The hosts dive into the exciting intersection of AI and education, exploring how tech can create personalized music and reshape learning experiences. They discuss the paradox of rising unemployment in tech despite claims of labor shortages and emphasize competency-based education for lifelong learners. The conversation features humorous insights on abundance in EdTech, while stressing the need for human connections amidst digital innovation. Ultimately, they advocate for a transformative approach to education that values experience over grades.

Join Peter Van Mondfrans from YouScience, Kaitlyn Tyler of the Greater Springfield Partnership, and Jamison Truebenbach from the Global Impact STEM Academy as they dive into revolutionary career navigation for students. They discuss YouScience's gamified aptitude assessments that connect students with real-world careers. Discover how local partnerships and hands-on internships empower students, fostering a vibrant workforce. The guests emphasize the essential merging of education with industry to ensure that students not only thrive but also feel confident in their career journeys.

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Victoria Andrews engages in an enlightening conversation with Tiffany Green, the visionary founder of Uprooted Academy. This innovative platform is designed to transform the college application journey for young students by incorporating holistic elements such as financial literacy, wellness, and community engagement. Tiffany shares her personal experiences and insights, revealing how Uprooted Academy is not just about getting students to college but ensuring they thrive through comprehensive support that tackles often-overlooked areas like mental health and family involvement. By employing technology and AI, Uprooted Academy personalizes the college preparation process, making it more accessible and equitable for underrepresented communities. Tiffany discusses the systemic challenges faced by students in navigating the complex college application landscape and how Uprooted Academy addresses these issues through a community-centric approach. The platform's unique features, like the AI assistant Rudy, provide students with tailored guidance, helping them manage stress and build a support network. With a mission to redefine educational equity, Uprooted Academy equips students, families, and educators with the tools and knowledge needed for long-term success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leveraging technology and community resources to close educational gaps and empower the next generation of learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast (01:28) Tiffany's Personal Journey and Inspiration (05:44) Holistic Approach to Student Support (07:11) The Role of Technology in Uprooted Academy (10:27) Building a Supportive Community (18:13) Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles (26:02) The Importance of Wellness and Co-Regulation (29:34) Empowering Students and Communities (32:08) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Uprooted Academy The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma  David Brooks -  December Cover Story: David Brooks on How the Ivy League Broke America