Progressively Incorrect

In this episode, I sit down with Alex Gingell to unpack what it actually takes to make instructional coaching work in a school. Alex explains why his first priority wasn’t improving teaching, but stabilizing behavior, curriculum, and trust—and why coaching can only succeed once those foundations are secure. We talk through how he used Steplab … Continue reading S5E11: Alex Gingell on Setting the Culture and Conditions for Effective Instructional Coaching

In this episode of the Direct Instruction podcast, I’m joined by Laura Doherty, President and CEO of the Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP)—Maryland’s largest operator of neighborhood, PK–8 public charter schools, and one of the longest-running Direct Instruction networks in the United States.  For nearly three decades, BCP has been quietly doing something that many systems … Continue reading S5E10: Laura Doherty on the Baltimore Curriculum Project

In this captivating discussion, Marty Siegel, Professor Emeritus of Informatics and Instructional Systems Technology, shares his groundbreaking insights into the evolution of education technology. He recounts his early days with Direct Instruction and the innovative PLATO project, emphasizing the importance of corrective feedback and accelerated learning for struggling students. Marty also critiques the potential pitfalls of AI in education, contrasting it with established instructional methods, and envisions personal AI tutors that promote learner ownership and contextual understanding.

Doug Lemov, an esteemed author and educator known for his influential work in teaching methodologies, shares insights on transforming classroom practices. He discusses the evolution of 'Teach Like a Champion' and the importance of connecting cognitive science with teaching tools. Doug elaborates on the 'What to Do' cycle to improve student follow-through and emphasizes the necessity of crisp directions to aid working memory. He also introduces active observation techniques to enhance feedback and teacher interventions, promoting a rigorous and supportive learning environment.

Denarius Frazier, Managing Director of Academics at Uncommon Schools and co-author of 'Reconnect', shares his journey from a high school math teacher to an influential leader. He discusses the importance of strong classroom systems, highlighting techniques that drive student engagement through predictable routines. Denarius promotes a balanced approach to math instruction, the advantages of active observation for feedback, and the sustainability of high expectations in fostering a sense of belonging. His practical insights aim to transform educational practices globally.

Jessica Colleu Terradas, an Australian education leader, and Jon Owen, a UK teacher and Direct Instruction advocate, dive into the transformative power of Direct Instruction. Jessica shares her insights on overcoming resistance to structured programs like DI and the significant gains seen in literacy outcomes. Jon highlights the importance of well-designed curricula and effective delivery in UK schools, emphasizing the profound impact on struggling students. Together, they discuss placement testing and the critical role of teacher involvement in scripted DI approaches.

Anna Stokke, a mathematician and professor passionate about math education reform, dives into the pitfalls of contemporary math teaching methods. She argues for the necessity of explicit skill practice over vague conceptual understanding and highlights the crucial role of foundational skills like fractions and basic algebra. Stokke also critiques the notion that teaching confidence can substitute for actual math skills and stresses that efficiency and accuracy must remain central in math instruction. Her insights challenge the status quo and pave the way for a more structured approach to math learning.

Joining the conversation is Marcie Samayoa, a passionate high school chemistry teacher and science-of-learning advocate behind the blog Scientists in the Making. She shares her journey of making science education equitable and engaging. Marcie explains how she translates cognitive science into classroom practices, emphasizing explicit instruction for complex concepts. She discusses the balance between inquiry and foundational knowledge, offering strategies for effective labs and reducing misbehavior through structured teaching. Her insights highlight the importance of supporting novice teachers in implementing evidence-based instruction.

John Mighton, a mathematician, playwright, and founder of JUMP Math, shares his vision for transforming math education. He challenges the misconception that only certain students can succeed in math, emphasizing the need for equitable teaching approaches. Mighton discusses personal breakthroughs in self-teaching and critiques common instructional errors that hinder learning. He offers practical steps for schools to implement JUMP Math, underscoring that improving math confidence is key to student success.

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by two of the most influential voices in literacy education today—Linda Diamond and Paige Pullen. With decades of experience in education, Linda and Paige bring clarity to the evidence-based education movement and the science of reading in particular. Together, we dive into their framework of three interrelated sciences—Learning Science, … Continue reading S5E02: Linda Diamond & Paige Pullen on Connecting Learning, Literacy, and Instruction