Explore the intense pressures of academic perfectionism and how it affects first-generation college students. Discover the emotional toll of maintaining high GPAs for scholarships amidst rising tuition costs. Delve into the flawed GPA system and its historical roots, advocating for personalized education. Reflect on the confusing grading differences between community colleges and elite universities. Finally, consider a shift from traditional metrics to mastery-based assessments, aiming for true understanding over mere numbers.

Delve into the history of 'gifted and talented' programs in schools, from Lewis Terman's legacy to the debate on equity. Explore the evolution of views on gifted children, from anti-social to valuable resources. Unpack the complexities of identifying and supporting gifted individuals, addressing disparities and the struggle for equal opportunities.

Debate on admissions process at a top high school, calls for inclusivity and equity in education. Controversy over merit-based vs. race-based admissions. Proposals for innovative approaches like merit lotteries. Discussion on American values, history, equity, and opportunities in public schools.

What the odd and surprising history of 'pulling yourself up by your bootstraps' says about educational equity. This is the first episode in our Bootstraps podcast series on merit, myths and education. This first ran in 2021.

Exploring the impact of smartphones and social media in schools, the podcast discusses strategies for managing distractions, promoting sustained focus, and combating social media addiction. It delves into the importance of student input in decision-making, engaging students in literature classes, and advocating for collective action to create phone-free school environments.

As more students question the value of college, more high schools are bringing college options into their walls. In the latest installment of our Doubting College series, we visit a high school where students can earn a two-year degree without leaving the building, and where students can also get a jump on other career options that don’t require higher education.

Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, discusses the use of AI chatbots as tutors in education. He explores the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating AI tutoring tools, emphasizing the importance of balancing technological innovation with human interaction in personalized learning experiences. The podcast also analyzes efficacy studies in edtech companies and the role of chatbot tutors in student engagement and learning, highlighting the need for inclusive educational practices and effective integration of AI tools in teaching.

Professors are adapting teaching methods post-pandemic for student disengagement. Topics include online learning, engaging quizzes, and modifying lectures for in-person classes. Understanding reasons for disengagement, shift towards online resources, and challenges in engaging students are discussed.

Ellen Galinsky, an author who studied brain science in adolescents, emphasizes the importance of viewing teens positively. She discusses integrating executive function skills into education, challenging stereotypes, and promoting engagement and reflective teaching for enhanced learning experiences. Galinsky also explores over-parenting, autonomy support, and the complexity of teenage development.

High school students are questioning the value of college education and exploring alternative career paths. The podcast discusses the pressures and uncertainties students face in choosing their career paths. It highlights the desire for purpose in work among students and showcases their diverse career aspirations, emphasizing a shift towards purpose-driven education.