The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker
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Dr. Catlin Tucker is a bestselling author, international trainer, and keynote speaker. She was named Teacher of the Year in 2010 in Sonoma County, where she taught for 16 years. Catlin earned her doctorate in learning technologies from Pepperdine University. Currently, Catlin is working as a blended learning coach, education consultant, and professor in a Masters of Arts in Teaching program. Catlin has published several books on blended learning, including The Shift to Student-led, The Complete Guide to Blended Learning, UDL and Blended Learning, and Balance with Blended Learning. She is active on Twitter @Catlin_Tucker and writes an internationally-ranked blog at CatlinTucker.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 10, 2024 • 16min
Elevate Tier 1 Instruction–The Equity Advantage of Small Groups
In this mini-episode, I explore the benefits of presenting Tier 1 instruction in small group, differentiated instructional sessions. Small groups are not just beneficial for targeted support and intervention; they can elevate Tier 1 instruction, reducing the need for Tier 2 and 3 interventions. When teachers provide instruction on a foundational concept or skill that may be complex or challenging, presenting it in small groups and adjusting the instruction creates a more equitable experience for students.
Dec 3, 2024 • 42min
Sticky Notes and Viral Stories: Matt Eicheldinger Shows How Small Moments Have a Big Impact
Matt Eicheldinger, an educator and bestselling author, shares his journey from a classroom teacher to a viral sensation with heartfelt stories that resonate across social media. He discusses the power of storytelling in education and how small moments can create significant impact. Matt reflects on his transition from architecture to teaching, detailing his perseverance through 200 rejection letters in his writing journey. With anecdotes from his books like 'Sticky Notes,' he highlights the emotional connections made between teachers and students, proving that even ordinary moments can be extraordinary.
Nov 19, 2024 • 24min
Concept Maps: A Powerful Meaning-Making Tool
In this mini-episode, I explore the power of concept maps as a dynamic tool for helping students make meaning and deepen their understanding. I discuss the benefits of concept mapping, review various formats for organizing and visually representing new information, and a few steps teachers can take to maximize the impact of concept mapping.
For more insights and free templates to use in your classroom, and for more on concept maps (plus templates you can copy), check out my blog!
Nov 12, 2024 • 51min
Helping Young People Navigate an Increasingly Complex Digital Landscape with Sue Thotz
In this episode, I chat with Sue Thotz, the Director of Outreach for Common Sense Education and co-founder of Equity in Action California.
We discuss resources and strategies educators, parents, and families can lean on to help guide young people in navigating the complexities of living in an age of social media, artificial intelligence, and 24/7 connectivity in a healthy way that aligns with their values.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Dawn of the AI Era:Teens
Parents, and the Adoption of Generative AI at Home and School
Digital Well-Being Lessons for Grades K–12
Digital Citizenship Week Resources
Nov 5, 2024 • 22min
Ask Catlin: Using AI with Students
In this episode of Ask Catlin, I’m diving into your questions about AI in the classroom! From practical ways to use AI with students to strategies for fostering critical thinking and balancing AI use, I’ll cover it all. I also tackle the tricky issue of AI-generated student work and share how AI can support special needs students and English language learners. And as a bonus, I dish on my most—and least—favorite Thanksgiving foods!
Oct 29, 2024 • 20min
Designing for a Block Schedule
In this mini-episode, I explore strategies for designing effective block periods. Transitioning from a traditional 6- or 7-period day to longer blocks can feel overwhelming, but with intentional planning and the use of content blocks, you can create dynamic, engaging lessons.
Learn how to balance direct instruction with student-led activities, mix individual and collaborative tasks, and keep students engaged throughout the entire block.
To read more about this, you can check out my blog on this topic!
Oct 22, 2024 • 60min
Leading with Purpose and Passion
In this episode, I chat with Colton Monti, the principal at Selah High School, about his leadership journey. Colton shares how he has cultivated a school culture that encourages teachers to embrace lifelong learning and adapt to change. We discuss the strategies he uses to support educators in shifting their instructional practices, putting students to the center of the learning experience, and infusing joy into this work.
Oct 15, 2024 • 18min
Ask Catlin: Choice Boards
In this episode, I’m answering all your questions about choice boards! Wondering how many options to offer or how to differentiate effectively? I’ve got you covered. Plus, I share a ridiculous Halloween memory involving me, a golf cart, and a wild chase—while dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West.
Oct 8, 2024 • 16min
5 Tips for Designing AI-Resistant Tasks
In this mini-episode, I share five tips teachers can use to design tasks and assignments that are AI-resistant. These tips seek to capitalize on some of the limitations of AI right now. Designing AI-resistant tasks isn’t about avoiding technology; rather, it’s about designing assignments that challenge students to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, and demonstrate their unique understanding in ways AI simply can’t replicate.
If you want to read or share the blog on this topic, you can access that here.
Oct 2, 2024 • 27min
Audio Diary From Work in Africa
In this special episode, I share my audio diaries, reflecting on daily experiences and insights from working with schools in Cairo and Ghana.
