Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

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. 

Dr. Aliber Lozano, Head of Teaching and Learning at AVID, discusses the importance of supporting students beyond high school graduation, emphasizing the need for a growth mindset and nurturing student agency. He highlights the challenges faced by first-generation college students, including financial literacy, social networks, and mental health. Lozano stresses the role of educators in fostering professional learning and maintaining connections with alumni. He introduces the AVIDly Adulting podcast, aimed at first and second-year professionals, and underscores the significance of community and networking in overcoming obstacles. The conversation concludes with a call to action for educators to support each other and their students.  Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore free online courses and resources that you and your students can use to learn more about artificial intelligence. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore how you can use Napkin AI to generate text and accompanying graphics, including editable diagrams. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, the Unpacking Education team discusses assessment, including traditional testing and options that extend beyond. The dialogue includes conversations about student performance, creation, interaction, and expression. By opening up our assessment options, we can save time, measure success more accurately, and potentially increase motivation for our students. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore how you can use Curipod to save you time and also make your presentations more engaging and interactive. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.