
Better Teaching: Only Stuff That Works
Descriptions of effective teaching often depict an idealized form of "perfect" instruction. Yet, pursuing perfection in teaching, which depends on children's behavior, is ultimately futile. To be effective, lessons and educators need to operate with about 75% efficiency. The remaining 25% can be impactful, but expecting it in every lesson, every day, is unrealistic. Perfection in teaching may be unattainable, but progress is not. Whether you are aiming for the 75% effectiveness mark or striving for continuous improvement, this podcast will guide you in that endeavor.
Latest episodes

Dec 4, 2024 • 42min
Rehearsal & Instructional Coaching with Zach Groshell
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud Zach Groshell and Gene Tavernetti think out loud about the role rehearsal can play in professional development and Instructional Coaching.
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Nov 27, 2024 • 39min
Adopting the Science of Learning Principles as a Central Focus with Lynn Gaffney
In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti interviews Lynn Gaffney, the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction at Watertown City School District. They discuss strategies for improving test scores, the science of learning, and the importance of instructional practices. Lynn Gaffney discusses the adoption of Science of Learning principles as a central focus for an entire district, aiming to enhance educational outcomes across the board.Books mentioned in episode:Jade Pearce: What Every Teacher Needs to Know: How to Embed Evidence Informed Teaching and Learning in Your SchoolPatrice Bain: Powerful TeachingKarin Chenoweth: Schools That SucceedGene Tavernetti: Teach FAST: Focused Adapatable Structured TeachingGene TavernettI: Maximizing the Impact of Coaching CyclesPrograms mentioned:Spring Math - Amanda VanDerheydenUniversity of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) Foundations - Holly LaneEffective Teaching - APL Associates Jean Anastacio and David PerryThe Reading League (Syracuse, NY Chapter)
(00:00) - Lynn Gaffney
(35:07) - Lynn has a question for Gene
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Nov 20, 2024 • 41min
The Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Our Children with Dr. Frank Rodriguez
In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti sits down with Dr. Frank Rodriguez to discuss his extensive experience in the education sector and his focus on parent education. They delve into the nuances of post-pandemic education, the challenges faced by students and educators, and the importance of integrating technology intelligently in classrooms and at home. The conversation also highlights the development of parent education modules aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of screen time on children's development. Contact Dr. Rodriguez here.00:00 Introduction00:38 Guest Introduction03:14 Pandemic Response03:22 Parent Education12:21 Implementing Parent Modules28:44 Educator's Role in Technology Use35:22 Frank Has a Question for Gene40:18 Conclusion and Call to ActionBooks referenced in this podcast:Jonathan Haidt: The Anxious GenerationJohann Hari: Stolen Focus
(00:00) - Frank Rodriguez
(35:52) - Frank Has a Question for Gene
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Nov 13, 2024 • 52min
Rod Naquin on the Role of Dialogue in Education
In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti converses with Rod Naquin, a seasoned educator and instructional coach. They discuss the impact of dialogue on teaching, teacher collaboration, student collaboration, and the whole world. Their conversation also goes into psychological and philosophical underpinnings, the significance of understanding teachers' individual contexts, and effective coaching methods.02:49 The Role of Experiences in Educational Leadership04:14 Teacher Collaborative Discourse04:37 Barriers to Effective Collaboration14:11 Psychology of Teacher Collaboration31:50 Communication Dynamics in Educational Settings30:51 Reflecting on Collaborative Practices
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Nov 6, 2024 • 55min
Dr. Jana Lee explains how she helps teachers use micro data to inform everything from IEPs, instruction, interventions, and PLCs.
In this episode, Gene Tavernetti talks with Dr. Jana Lee, an expert in data-driven educational practices and inclusive teaching. The discussion delves into effective data utilization, the importance of microdata, and best practices for both general and special education. Learn how to enhance professional learning communities (PLCs) and the significance of responsive teaching.02:05 Data-Driven Decisions04:43 Understanding Microdata05:31 Effective Teaching Strategies06:22 Challenges in Data Collection30:32 Special Education Insights47:35 Coaching and Professional Growth
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Oct 23, 2024 • 36min
Lindsey Cormack discusses her new book How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It) and the importance of parents educating children about our system of government.
In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti speaks with Dr. Lindsey Cormack, an Associate Professor of Political Science at Stevens Institute of Technology and author of 'How to Raise a Citizen: Why It's Up to You to Do It.' They discuss the importance of teaching civics and politics to children, the challenges teachers face in the current political climate, and actionable strategies for parents to engage their children in understanding politics and government. The conversation also touches on historical context, educational strategies, and the role of media in shaping our political understanding.01:47 Civics Education: Then and Now04:26 Defining Civics and its Broader Implications04:29 The Current State of Civics Knowledge06:07 Lindsey’s Research and Findings19:37 Teaching Civics at Home vs. School34:04 Key Takeaways
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Oct 16, 2024 • 32min
Blake Harvard On What Teachers and Students Need to Know About How We Learn
In this episode, Gene interviews Blake Harvard, Blake discussed his new book: Do I Have Your Attention: Understanding Memory Constraints and Maximizing Learning and what he teaches his students about learning.01:36 Festival of Education and Presentation Highlights06:25 Understanding Memory Constraints07:45 Strategies for Effective Teaching09:46 Application of Cognitive Psychology in the Classroom13:57 High Expectations and Student Motivation17:57 Practical Techniques: Brain Book Buddy Model27:49 Pre-Service Teacher Advice
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Oct 9, 2024 • 39min
Thinking Out Loud with Zach Groshell
In the premiere episode of a new segment titled 'Thinking Out Loud,' Zach Groshell and Gene Tavernetti engage in a candid discussion about a recent episode of Progressively Incorrect on Direct Instruction.Thinking Out Loud' will be featured on 'Better Teaching: Only Stuff that Works' and 'Progressively Incorrect' platforms.The conversation covers Dr. Groshell's latest podcast episodes, feedback from listeners, and the differences and similarities between Engelmann's DI and explicit instruction. They also delve into the importance of fast-paced, precise teaching and effective coaching methods.02:33 Explaining Direct Instruction04:41 Comparing DI and Regular Episodes06:18 Teaching Lesson Demonstration09:04 Precision of Language in DI10:58 Seeking Out Coaching28:04 Developing DI Workshops
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Oct 3, 2024 • 43min
“Don’t call me a instructional coach! I’m an instructional specialist.” Amy Pento describes the difference, and why it was important to her.
In this episode, Gene Tavernetti interviews Amy Pento, an instructional consultant and former Spanish teacher. Amy shares her experiences and strategies as an instructional specialist and discusses the importance of evidence-based teaching methods, professional relationships, and the challenges and successes in implementing instructional changes in schools.02:23 Becoming an Instructional Specialist04:54 Challenges and Strategies in Instructional Leadership28:44 The Impact of Instructional Changes32:48 Amy's Proud MomentsGet in touch with Amy:X: @amypento
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.

Sep 25, 2024 • 36min
Paul Dietrich Reflects on His First Two Years as an Academic Coach
In this episode, Gene Tavernetti welcomes Paul Dietrich to the podcast. They discuss Paul's journey from being a teacher to becoming an academic coach at Fairview Middle School, his commitment to educational technology, and the importance of building trust and relationships in coaching. Paul shares insights on working with both new and veteran teachers, navigating the complexities of coaching, and the significance of being a supportive partner rather than an evaluator.00:55 Paul’s Background02:20 First Impressions03:50 Views on Instruction13:52 Coaching Experience08:14 Challenges in Coaching09:17 Veteran vs. Novice TeachersSocial Media Links for Paul:Facebook: Paul DietrichTwitter: @DietrichucationLinkedIn: dietrichucation
This podcast sponsored by:The Bell Ringer, a weekly newsletter providing news, tools, and resources on the science of learning, written by education reporter Holly Korbey. Subscribe here. Murmuration Author Services by Mark Combes. Looking to write your first book? Murmuration Author Services is your friend and coach for this journey. Learn more here.