D2L's Teach & Learn

In this powerful season finale of Teach & Learn, Dr. Cristi Ford speaks with Isabelle C. Hau—Executive Director at Stanford and author of Love to Learn—about the urgent need to prioritize relational intelligence (RQ) in education. They discuss:☑️ How academic readiness is incomplete without relational flourishing.☑️ Neuroscience and social science research showing that human connection is essential for learning and lifelong success.☑️ The importance of early childhood development and how relationships shape brain growth.☑️ Societal shifts—like smaller families, increased screen time, and age segregation—that are shrinking children's circles of connection.☑️ The role educators and technology can play in rebuilding and expanding those relational circles.☑️ Practical strategies for educators, parents, and school leaders to foster deeper relationships in classrooms and communities.☑️ The need to redefine assessments and rethink teacher training to prioritize relational intelligence.Isabelle C. Hau is a visionary leader who is dedicated to transforming the way we nurture and educate our children. As executive director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning, she leverages brain science and technology to champion innovative, effective, and inclusive learning solutions. She is also the author of “Love to Learn: The Transformative Power of Care and Connection in Early Education”.Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed. Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

In this episode of Teach and Learn, Dr. Emma Zone continues the conversation with Dan Fitzpatrick, an international keynote speaker, bestselling author and AI educator, to delve deeper into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in education. Known globally as The AI Educator, Fitzpatrick shares his passion for innovation and technology. In this second part of this two-part episode, Fitzpatrick expands on the practical applications of AI in education, from resource creation to administrative tasks, and the broader implications for teaching and learning. They discuss the importance of integrating AI into K-12 education, focusing on critical thinking and interpersonal skills. Fitzpatrick shares insights from his books, which serve as practical guides for educators navigating the complexities of AI. They also touch on the need for parents and students to take an active role in shaping educational experiences in the age of AI.  Together they discuss: The increasing importance of AI in education  The need for practical AI resources for educators  How critical thinking and interpersonal skills are slipping through the cracksHow parents and guardians should take an active role in their child's education regarding AI The ways AI can enhance pedagogical strategies and support accessibility Fitzpatrick also shares insights from his books, "The AI Classroom," "Back-to-School AI Guide 2024/25," and his latest title, "Infinite Education." Join us for an engaging conversation that will have you questioning traditional educational practices and gain a better appreciation for the future of AI in the K-12 space.    Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed. Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

In this episode of Teach and Learn, Dr. Emma Zone sits down with Dan Fitzpatrick, an international keynote speaker, bestselling author and AI educator, to explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Known worldwide as The AI Educator, Fitzpatrick shares his journey from being a high school teacher to becoming a leading voice in AI and education, emphasizing his passion for innovation and technology. In the first of this two-part episode, Fitzpatrick shares insights into the practical applications of AI in education, from resource creation to administrative tasks, and the broader implications for teaching and learning.   Together they discuss: Integrating AI into the classroomChallenges and opportunities How education systems need to focus on skills, not just knowledge The lack of AI training for educators How generative tools can save educators time and enhance their teaching methods The application of Vijay Govindarajan’s "Three-Box Solution" framework to navigate change  Join us for an engaging conversation that illuminates the future of education and AI's pivotal role in shaping it. Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio, where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes, and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed. Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

In this episode of Teach & Learn, Dr. Cristi Ford sits down with Dr. Sean McMinn, Director of the Center of Education Innovation at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Dr. McMinn shares his insights on the importance of metacognitive awareness in an AI-driven society and provides practical strategies for educators to teach these concepts effectively. Viewers will learn about the role of AI as a copilot in the learning process and discover innovative approaches to integrating AI in education. They discuss:☑️  Why metacognitive awareness is crucial in an AI-driven educational environment.☑️  How Dr. McMinn teaches metacognition to help students critically understand AI.☑️  When AI should be used as a copilot rather than a decision-maker in the learning process.☑️  Practical strategies educators can use to integrate AI responsibly in their teaching.Dr. Sean McMinn is the Director of the Center for Education Innovation at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). His role includes leading the development of digital education, including AI for education initiatives, at the university. Sean also currently sits on multiple international committees, including the AI and Education International Panel, Digital Education Council, and the Cyber-Physical Learning Alliance. He has won various awards for his work in digital education, including the 2024 Global MOOC and Online Education Alliance (GMA) Award for his work in AI Education, the 2016 School of Humanities and Social Science (SHSS) Teaching Excellence Award and the 2007 Teaching Innovation Award for his work with podcasts and education at HKUST. Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed. Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

In today’s episode of Teach & Learn, Dr. Cristi Ford sits down with Nathifa Forde, executive director of NYC Her Future, to learn about the various initiatives she’s working on that are aimed at advancing education, workforce development and safety for young women in New York City.They discuss:Nathifa’s journey and the mission of NYC Her Future NYC Her Future’s partnership and collaboration with NYC Public Schools Disparities that young women face when it comes to education, employment, justice and healthThe role of AI and technology in shaping future careers and the importance of STEAM educationNathifa Forde is the Founding Executive Director of NYC Her Future, where she strategically develops policies, programs, and partnerships to support young women, girls, and gender expansive New Yorkers of color in overcoming disparities. With a decade-long career in the NYC nonprofit sector, Forde has spearheaded a multitude of initiatives such as the Health Career Credentialing Program at CUNY and partnerships with organizations like the Black Women's Blueprint to address maternal-infant mortality rates.Prior to her current role, Forde was the acting executive director of the NYC Young Men’s Initiative, served as a National Urban Fellow at the Annie E. Casey Foundation and held positions at the NYC Center for Youth Employment. She is an alumna of CUNY holding both a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from Medgar Evers College and a Master of Public Administration from Bernard M. Baruch College.Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed. Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

As AI continues to transform the educational landscape, understanding its impact is crucial for educators.In today's episode, Dr. Cristi Ford welcomes Dr. Angela Gunder, founder and CEO of Opened Culture (OEC), to discuss the multifaceted concept of AI literacies. Dr. Gunder explains the importance of understanding AI beyond its technical aspects, emphasizing the need for educators to grasp how AI influences collaboration, innovation and learner engagement.They discuss the eight key dimensions of AI literacies, highlighting the skills and mindsets necessary for effective AI integration in educational contexts. Dr. Gunder shares insights from her research, supported by UNESCO IITE and MIT Open Learning, and provides practical examples of how educators can incorporate AI literacies into their teaching practices. The conversation also explores ethical considerations and cultural sensitivities required to ensure AI applications are inclusive and beneficial for all learners.Dr. Angela Gunder is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Opened Culture, a pioneering collaboratory that empowers educators and institutions to advance access to education through open collaboration, academic innovation, and community engagement. Through leading-edge research, professional development, and strategic guidance, she and her team support educational communities in guiding and sustaining cultures of openness to instantiate a more inclusive future of learning. Dr. Gunder has earned accolades from UNESCO IITE, MIT Open Learning, and UPCEA for her transformative initiatives in fostering cultures of openness in digital learning and artificial intelligence (AI). Her research focuses on open remix practices, opened culture, digital literacies, narrative digital learning practices, and emerging technology for language acquisition. She holds a B.S. in Computer Science and Fine Art from Fordham University, a M.Ed. in Education Technology from Arizona State University, and a Ph.D. in Teaching, Learning, and Sociocultural Studies from The University of Arizona.Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed. Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

In this episode, Dr. Emma Zone sits down with Emmy-Nominated edutainment creator Jerry Kolber to talk about making learning fun. Kolber’s work in television and podcasting focuses on blending education with entertainment. This concept, known as edutainment, presents subjects like math and science in more engaging, fun ways. Through storytelling, wacky characters and imaginative scenarios, Kolber’s creations are helping to capture attention, spark curiosity and ignite the joy of learning for kids and families alike.They discuss:The meaning of edutainmentWhy making learning fun is an effective way to spark curiosity How entertainment can create entry points for learners in various subjectsThe secret to making powerful edutainmentJerry Kolber is the co-creator of National Geographic's #1 educational series, BRAIN GAMES which earned him an Emmy Award Nomination. He's the co-creator of BRAINCHILD, the live-action Netflix series about science and history, and his company, Atomic Entertainment is behind the popular podcasts for families and kids, WHO SMARTED? and MYSTERIES ABOUT TRUE HISTORIES a.k.a M.A.T.H. Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed.  Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

In this episode, Dr. Cristi Ford and special guest  Dr. Amber Garrison Duncan, executive vice president and COO at the Competency-Based Education Network (C-BEN) dive into the skills-forward world of competency-based education (CBE). Together, they explore how this modern approach to learning is revolutionizing education by focusing on skills and competencies delivered at a flexible pace. Dr. Garrison Duncan shares insights on the collaboration between educational institutions, employers and organizations, like  C-BEN to highlight the value of CBE.  After all, “No one is going to pay you to sit around and just know things,” jokes Dr. Amber Garrison Duncan. In this episode, they discuss: How CBE and C-BEN are shaping the future of education by empowering lifelong learners who can adapt to the changing needs of today’s job marketWhy CBE is the educational model of the futureWhat are some of the challenges organizations face in standardizing competencies Where you can look for CBE frameworks and resources What has been accomplished, what needs to be done, and what the future holds for this kind of learningRemember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed.  Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

Figuring out how to use generative AI responsibly at one university campus is challenging enough – what happens when you’re tasked with doing it across 64 of them? In today’s podcast episode, Dr. Cristi Ford chats with Kim Scalzo, Interim Senior Associate Provost for Digital Innovation and Academic Services at the State University of New York (SUNY). SUNY is in the process of integrating generative AI across all 64 of its campus locations. Dr. Ford and Scalzo discuss the challenges and strategies that come with rolling out AI at scale. Scalzo highlights various initiatives, including the formation of task groups, professional development courses, and the creation of AI literacy competencies for students. Scalzo also shares insights on the ethical and responsible implementation of AI, addressing challenges such as data privacy and the need for policy guidance. This is an important conversation that highlights the transformative potential of AI in higher education and SUNY's proactive approach to embracing emerging technologies while ensuring accessibility and equity for all students.Remember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed.  Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.

According to a U.S. News + Generation Lab report, 70% of college students have struggled with mental health since starting college. Despite expressing a need for care, only 37% of survey respondents searched for mental health resources. These findings align with a recent D2L-sponsored Tyton Partners report, which found that only 50% of students are aware of key on-campus services like academic and career advising, financial aid, and mental health counseling.It's clear we’re edging closer and closer towards a student mental health crisis in the higher education world. To discuss why this is happening and offer solutions, Dr. Cristi Ford, D2L’s Chief Learning Officer, welcomed Dr. Amelia Parnell, President of Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA). In this episode, they discuss:  The D2L and Tyton Partners 'Listening to Learners Report', which highlights the impact of student safety on re-enrollment decisionsWhy academic advisors play a pivotal role in creating safe spaces and supporting students beyond academic guidanceWhy so many students are unaware of available mental health resourcesHow technology can enhance the delivery and accessibility of support servicesThe importance of continuous collaboration between student affairs departments and academic affairs departments to support student successRemember to follow us on social media. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @D2L. Check out our YouTube channel for the video version of this podcast and so much more. Please take a moment to rate, review and share the podcast, and reach out with comments and ideas for future episodes.For more content for educators, by educators, please visit the Teaching & Learning Studio where you can listen to more podcast episodes, register for free D2L Master Classes and read articles written by educational leaders. Sign up for our Teaching & Learning Studio newsletter and never miss a thing. To learn more about how D2L is transforming the way the world learns, visit our website at D2L.com  Class dismissed.  Visit the Teaching & Learning Studio for more content for educators, by educators. Sign up for our newsletter today.