Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In this episode, Rena Clark, an Instructional Technology Facilitator and one of our Unpacking Education podcast cohosts, shares insights from the work that she's currently engaged in with language acquisition and translation tools. She discusses how the overreliance on translation tools in education can inadvertently hinder language acquisition and literacy. While she says that there's a time and place for translation tools in schools, it’s important to recognize that these tools can also increase cognitive load and communicate translations inaccurately. Rena emphasizes the importance of intentional, small-dose use of translation tools and advocates for good teaching practices, such as visual aids, simplified language, and peer support. She suggests empowering students to use translation tools responsibly and leveraging AI for better translations. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore Corgi, a free, interactive graphic organizer tool from CAST designed for teachers and students. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Explore how to create custom student chatbots with schoolai.

Gaspare Lipari, a teacher at Western Middle School in Greenwich, Connecticut, discusses his innovative use of immersive technologies in K-12 education. Lipari highlights the transformative impact of these technologies on student engagement, particularly in special education, where they enhance focus and social skills. He has also established and runs a summer camp and community programs to extend these educational experiences beyond the walls of the school. Lipari emphasizes the importance of fostering creativity and imagination in students through technology. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Julie Faryniarz and Trish Rohr join us to discuss how they support public education through the work of the Greenwich Alliance for Education. The alliance supports public school students and educators through programs like Tuning into Music, Reaching Out Grants, and AVID. Julie and Trish highlight the importance of shared responsibility, community partnerships, and innovative educational opportunities. They emphasize the impact of grants and successful programs like AVID, which they have supported with over $1 million in scholarships. The conversation also reflects on the importance of telling their story of service and impact as a way to raise awareness and generate continued support for innovative school programs. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore Google Vids and ways to integrate video production into your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, Matt Miller, the dynamic force behind the popular Ditch That Textbook blog and movement, shares his insights into education and technology. A former Spanish teacher turned ed-tech advocate, Matt shares his journey from traditional textbook-driven teaching to innovative, tech-infused strategies that engage students and spark creativity. Matt comments on the role of teachers in an AI-driven world, explores practical classroom applications of artificial intelligence, and highlights free resources from his Ditch That Textbook website, including an AI Teacher Toolkit and the annual Ditch Summit. Packed with actionable ideas, this conversation reaffirms the critical role of teachers in shaping the future of education. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore Adobe Podcast, a free podcasting solution for your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with renowned education technology advocate and author Ken Shelton to discuss his latest book, The Promises and Perils of AI in Education. Ken brings his years of experience as a middle school teacher, technology lab leader, and global speaker to a thought-provoking conversation about the transformative potential—and challenges—of artificial intelligence in education. Ken shares how we must engage critically with AI and its implementation to make sure it is used ethically and effectively in our schools and classrooms. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review the themes of Digital Learning Day 2025 and explore ways that you and your students can participate. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.