The International Classroom

In an increasingly digital world, how do we keep the magic of hands-on STEM learning alive? In Episode 1 of our mini-podcast series leading up to the STEM Learning Conference in Dubai this February, we explore the power of "unplugged" STEM activities to strike the perfect balance between screens and hands-on experimentation. Join host Alex Gray as he chats with Alex Moore from STEM Learning, UK, about: ➡️ The role of tactile, practical activities in science, computing, and mathematics. ➡️ Real-world examples of unplugged learning, from robotics and drones to physical experiments. ➡️ Why hands-on methods sometimes outperform digital tools in helping students grasp challenging concepts. ➡️ The importance of problem-solving, collaboration, and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle "wicked problems" like climate change and technology integration. 🗓️ Don’t miss the STEM Learning Conference in Dubai on February 22nd, 2025, hosted at GEMS Winchester School. For more details and workshop applications, check the links below! 🔗 Links & Resources: STEM Learning Conference info: https://www.stem.org.uk/stem-for-all Connect with STEM Learning: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stem-learning-ltd/posts/?feedView=all Follow the International Classroom Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast

Discover how AI-powered tools are reshaping education in this episode of The International Classroom Podcast. Join Alex as he interviews Dr. Safwa Abdulaziz, an experienced educator, educational technologist, and developer of ScreenBack, an innovative platform designed to simplify grading and enhance personalised feedback for students. In this episode, Dr. Abdulaziz shares her journey from teaching in New York to developing cutting-edge educational technology in Dubai. Learn how ScreenBack uses AI features like OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and NLP (Natural Language Processing) to make grading handwritten and digital work faster and more effective, empowering teachers to focus on meaningful feedback. 💡 Learn more about ScreenBack and sign up to try it here: https://form.jotform.com/243073439919061 📌 Connect with Dr. Safwa Abdulaziz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-safwa-abdul-aziz-413255a2/

Join me as I chat with Dan Hopper, founder of Study Blocks and Doodle, about how these platforms are transforming the way educators create and share resources. From bespoke educational designs to AI-powered tools that save time and enhance learning, Dan shares his journey, insights, and vision for supporting teachers and schools around the world. In this episode, we explore: ➡️ How Study Blocks empowers educators to create engaging, differentiated resources with ease. ➡️ The success of Doodle in producing bespoke materials for schools globally. ➡️ Practical ways AI tools are being integrated into education to save time and boost creativity. ➡️ How schools can generate revenue by sharing resources on the Study Blocks marketplace. ➡️ Dan's advice for aspiring edupreneurs who want to make a meaningful impact in education. Learn more: 🌟 Doodle: https://doodle.ac 🌟 Study Blocks: https://studyblocks.ai Whether you're a teacher looking for inspiration or an edupreneur seeking guidance, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes and updates on The International Classroom Podcast! #Education #AIinEducation #EdTech #StudyBlocks #TeachingResources #TeacherLife #InternationalClassroom

Discover how SMART Technologies is transforming education with cutting-edge tools that empower teachers and students worldwide. In this exclusive episode of our December mini-series on EdTech platforms, we speak with Kris Astle, Education Strategist at SMART, about personalised learning, UDL strategies, AI integration, and the future of classrooms. Learn how SMART's innovative solutions, like Lumio, are enhancing collaboration, reducing teacher workload, and meeting diverse student needs. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about SMART Technologies: https://www.smarttech.com/en/education https://www.smarttech.com/lumio --------------------------------------------------------------------- 🎬 Follow, listen and connect with me on other social platforms: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast Substack: https://substack.com/@theinternationalclassroom?r=4qrhps&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page --------------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to The International Classroom podcast for more episodes that bring you to the heart of educational innovation, and join us as we continue to explore how technology and traditional teaching methods can coexist to shape a brighter future for all learners.

Discover the fascinating world of Japan’s moral education system in this episode of The International Classroom Podcast. Join Alex as he talks with global education expert Charlie Jenkinson about how Japan’s unique approach to character development balances tradition, academic rigour, and cultural values. Learn how Japan’s framework—emphasising self-awareness, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship—can inspire global educators to rethink their own strategies. Explore the challenges of fostering independent thinking in a system rooted in conformity, and gain actionable insights for implementing holistic education in your classroom. Whether you’re an educator, school leader, or lifelong learner, this episode offers valuable lessons for preparing students to thrive in a globalised world. This episode offers actionable insights to transform your teaching strategies. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about SMART Technologies: https://www.smarttech.com/en/education https://www.smarttech.com/lumio --------------------------------------------------------------------- 🎬 Follow, listen and connect with me on other social platforms: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast Substack: https://substack.com/@theinternationalclassroom?r=4qrhps&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page --------------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to The International Classroom podcast for more episodes that bring you to the heart of educational innovation, and join us as we continue to explore how technology and traditional teaching methods can coexist to shape a brighter future for all learners.

Discover the secrets behind Finland's globally renowned education system in this episode! Dive into the key pillars of Finnish education, including student-centered learning, phenomenon-based teaching, and the power of fostering interdisciplinary connections. Our guest, Anton Telih, shares how Finland’s unique approach combines real-world problem solving, collaborative learning, and self-regulation strategies to create engaged and innovative students. In this episode, we explore: ✅ How phenomenon-based learning tackles real-world challenges by integrating subjects like history, math, and ICT. ✅ The role of technology in education to promote critical thinking, differentiation, and autonomy. ✅ The importance of building community and connection in classrooms to boost engagement and motivation. ✅ Finland’s equity-driven three-tiered support system for diverse learners. This episode offers actionable insights to transform your teaching strategies. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about SMART Technologies: https://www.smarttech.com/en/education --------------------------------------------------------------------- 🎬 Follow, listen and connect with me on other social platforms: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast Substack: https://substack.com/@theinternationalclassroom?r=4qrhps&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page --------------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to The International Classroom podcast for more episodes that bring you to the heart of educational innovation, and join us as we continue to explore how technology and traditional teaching methods can coexist to shape a brighter future for all learners.

Discover the power of global education in this episode of The International Classroom! Host Alex sits down with Julia Campbell-Ratcliffe, a seasoned educator and international school principal based in Frankfurt, Germany, to explore the intersections of project-based learning, service learning, and the importance of vocational education. Julia shares her journey through German and UK education systems, insights into the IB framework, and actionable strategies for fostering global citizenship in students. Tune in for expert advice on balancing local culture with international curricula, professional development for teachers, and the evolving role of educators in shaping globally-minded learners. A must-listen for educators, school leaders, and anyone passionate about the future of education!

Join us in The International Classroom as we explore Singapore’s renowned education system with Gavin Kinch, Principal of ACS International. From blending local and international cultures to navigating the IGCSE and IB programs, this episode is packed with insights on leadership, teacher empowerment, and the global challenges of education. Perfect for educators and leaders seeking inspiration and strategies to enhance teaching and learning. Follow us on Substack for deeper exploration of each episode: https://theinternationalclassroom.substack.com/

Join host Alex Gray in this captivating episode of the International Classroom Podcast, as he sits down with Tomi Kauppinen—a modern-day Renaissance man hailing from Helsinki, Finland. Tomi is the Head of Online Learning at Aalto University, an artist, author, scientist, and researcher whose expertise spans information visualisation, design thinking, and the future of education. What You'll Learn: The Finnish and German Educational Systems: Discover how different educational approaches in the Nordic countries and Germany shape teaching and learning methodologies. Information Visualisation in Education: Learn how transforming raw data into meaningful stories can enhance learning outcomes and student engagement. Digital Education Hackathon (DigiEduHack): Explore this innovative initiative by the European Commission that brings together educators, students, and innovators to solve real-world educational challenges. Cross-Disciplinary and Transdisciplinary Learning: Understand the importance of breaking down silos in education and how design thinking can revolutionise learning experiences. The Future of Education and Cyber-Physical Learning: Envision education 50 years from now, including cyber-physical environments that blend virtual and physical worlds, fostering global collaboration without boundaries. Tackling Wicked Problems and AI Ethics: Delve into the ethical implications of AI in learning and how to address global challenges to make the world a more human place. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction to Tomi Kauppinen 5:12 – Comparing Finnish and German Education Systems 12:45 – Information Visualisation: Transforming Data into Stories 20:30 – The Digital Education Hackathon Explained 28:15 – Cross-Disciplinary vs. Transdisciplinary Learning 35:50 – Design Thinking in Educational Design 42:05 – The Future of Education: Cyber-Physical Learning Environments 50:20 – Tackling Wicked Problems and AI Ethics 58:40 – Closing Thoughts and Actionable Advice Why Listen? If you're an educator, student, or simply passionate about the future of learning, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to think differently about education. Tomi shares actionable advice on integrating design thinking into educational practices and emphasises the need for global collaboration to solve the world's most pressing problems.

In this episode, Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith delves into the distinctions between PedTech and EdTech, exploring their unique roles in modern education. Discover how these technologies are reshaping teaching methodologies and enhancing student learning experiences. Whether you're an educator, student, or tech enthusiast, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on the future of education. Key Topics Covered: Defining PedTech and EdTech Impact of technology on teaching strategies Enhancing student engagement through tech Future trends in educational technology About Dr. Fiona Aubrey-Smith: Dr. Aubrey-Smith is a renowned expert in educational technology, with extensive experience in integrating innovative tools into curricula to foster effective learning environments. Connect with Us: Subscribe for more educational insights Follow us Visit our website: https://linktr.ee/ticpodcast