Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping the future of education—Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and Educational Technology Trends.
Nicole Santora from Discovery Education joins the conversation to discuss student engagement in the classroom. She explores why educators lack a shared definition of engagement and the challenges teachers face in creating engaging lessons. The discussion includes insights from administrators, the role of emotional engagement, and the need for professional development. Nicole emphasizes building strong relationships with students and highlights how instructional coaches support teachers. The conversation closes with a look at future directions in education and ongoing efforts to improve student engagement.
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- Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.
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Key Takeaways:
- Educators lack a shared definition of student engagement.
- Engagement sits at the heart of education today.
- Teaching is one of the most challenging professions.
- Emotional engagement is essential for effective learning.
- Fewer than half of students feel engaged in school.
- Learning is inherently messy and takes time.
- Strong student relationships are the foundation of engagement.
- Ongoing professional development helps teachers refine their practice.
- Instructional coaches are key to supporting teacher growth.
- Teachers need space to experiment and develop their skills.
Chapters:
- 00:00 Introduction to Student Engagement
- 00:58 Insights from Discovery Education
- 01:13 Introduction to Student Engagement
- 03:51 Defining Student Engagement
- 06:44 Challenges in Classroom Engagement
- 09:37 Insights from Administrators
- 12:59 The Role of Emotional Engagement
- 15:54 Generational Perspectives on Engagement
- 18:45 Professional Development for Teachers
- 21:49 Strategies for Instructional Coaches
- 24:40 Collaboration and Classroom Dynamics
- 27:48 The Importance of Learning in the Classroom
- 30:45 Conclusion and Resources
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
About our Guest: Nicole Santora
Nicole Santora is Discovery Education’s Instructional Strategy Director, where she serves as an instructional leader and systems strategist dedicated to advancing equitable learning outcomes through evidence-based design, professional learning, and cross-functional collaboration.
She specializes in upholding instructional integrity across...