Shows
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsStick-to-itiveness for the future world of workIn this conversation, Tricia Friedman speaks with Jerome James about the evolving landscape of engineering, the importance of curiosity and problem-solving skills, and how AI is changing the profession. They discuss the intersection of engineering and mental health, the significance of effective communication in energy management, and the qualities employers seek in engineers. Jerome shares insights on finding one's niche in engineering and the unexpected joys of making a positive impact through one's work. Chapters 00:00 Engineering the Future: An Introduction 03:05 Curiosity and Problem Solving in Engineering 05:57 The Impact of AI on Engineering Mindsets2025-06-2337 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsComing soon: The Future World of WorkListeners voted and told us this summer they wanted us to tell them more about the future world of work. Jeff and Tricia will bring listeners an incredible lineup of experts from a broad range of industries to tell us more about where we are heading. The summer series is proud to partner with Alongside. Tune in June 16th to catch the first episode in our summer of great conversations.2025-06-1002 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsInsights on the future of restorative justice In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht interviews Nicholas Bradford, founder of the National Center for Restorative Justice. They discuss the importance of restorative justice in education, the training and engagement strategies for teachers, and the current trends in school management and student engagement. Nicholas shares insights on the future of restorative justice, emphasizing the need for empathetic approaches in handling student conflicts and the importance of community engagement through conferences and workshops. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Restorative Justice in Education 05:35 Trends in School Engagement and Management 11:31 Future of Restorative Justice in Education 17:26 Conferences a...2025-05-2623 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsThe Future of AI in Trade ClassroomsThis is a topic so nice, Jeff just had to talk about it twice! If you missed last week's episode you might want to check it out first, it is a great precursor to this conversation where Jeff Utecht explores the integration of AI in trade classrooms, focusing on material selection, safety simulations, and the pedagogical benefits of using AI tools. He emphasizes the importance of preparing students for a future where AI is prevalent in the workforce, advocating for a collaborative approach where AI acts as a co-pilot in education. Through practical examples and insights, Utecht...2025-05-1922 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsAI in CTE Classrooms: A New Era Is HereIn this episode, Jeff Utecht explores the transformative impact of AI in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classrooms, particularly in construction and welding. He discusses how generative AI tools can enhance learning and efficiency, providing real-world applications and examples. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparing students for a future where AI plays a crucial role in skilled trades, highlighting the need for critical thinking and verification of AI-generated information. Chapters 00:00 AI in CTE Classrooms: A New Era 04:49 Generative AI in Construction and Welding 10:03 Building Information Management Software 14:45 Computer Vision in Welding...2025-05-1222 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsCan AI help us share our stories?In this episode of the Shifting Schools podcast, Tricia Friedman introduces a month-long challenge focused on playing with ideas. She discusses the importance of crafting personal stories as a means of reflection for educators and introduces a new generative AI bot designed to assist in this process. The episode encourages listeners to engage with the provided resources and share their experiences. Ready to check out the bot? https://chatgpt.com/g/g-680fda72d2b88191b55ebf3c763d5dbb-crafting-your-story-as-an-end-of-year-reflection Wanna check out the free guide? https://sh...2025-05-0506 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsFive challenges for fostering media and algorithmic literacy with friends and family In this episode, Tricia Friedman discusses the importance of algorithmic literacy in media literacy, introducing a free guide designed for families and friends to engage in co-learning activities over the summer. The guide emphasizes emotional health and community engagement through various challenges that encourage participants to explore media's impact on their lives and relationships. Grab the link to the free guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yA8cP21EaM7mTUqEH_7BfyxWnEbRZQdr/view?usp=sharing Thank you to our show sponsor: https://www.neulight.io/?utm_source=shiftingschool&utm_medium=podcast&u...2025-04-2110 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsThe AI and Social Media LinkJeff Utecht and Aaron Makelky discuss the integration of AI in education, focusing on how teachers can effectively leverage technology to enhance student learning. Aaron shares his journey as a high school social studies teacher and how he began using AI tools like ChatGPT in his classroom. They explore the importance of teaching AI literacy, the need for structured learning environments, and the challenges of ensuring equitable access to technology for all students. The conversation emphasizes the significance of prompt engineering and the various levels of AI integration in assignments, ultimately advocating for a more informed and adaptable approach...2025-04-1444 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsA new free guide for Earth DayTricia Friedman discusses the upcoming Earth Day and introduces a free guide aimed at helping educators engage students in sustainability discussions. The SEED guide emphasizes the intersection of AI and sustainability, encouraging a comprehensive approach to environmental education. Additionally, Tricia highlights a student competition for designing a new logo for Shifting Schools, promoting creativity and collaboration among students. The conversation also touches on the Earth Species Project, which uses AI to understand interspecies communication, and the importance of considering the ethical implications of technology in our daily lives. Ready to download the free guide now? ...2025-04-0708 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsThe Joy of Learning With Visual Notes In this conversation, Tricia Friedman and Nicki Hambleton discuss the significance of visual note-taking, and why it is increasingly more necessary for our learners. They discuss the process of creating visual notes, the importance of fun in learning, and how visual note-taking enhances listening skills. Nicki shares her experiences and insights on how to overcome hesitation in visual note-taking and its potential connection to wellness initiatives in organizations. Big Ideas Visual note-taking can help clarify thoughts about AI. Engaging in fun activities enhances the learning experience. The process of visual note-taking is as important as the outcome. Slowing down c...2025-03-3126 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsWatching Adolescence? Here's how to talk with...not just about teensIn this very short bonus episode, we let you know that we have received a ton of mail about Netflix's new hit show Adolescence. In light of those requests we put together a brand new free guide to help you use this moment and that show's popularity for media literacy in both the classroom and the home. Ready for the free guide? https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/a-media-literacy-moment-with-adolescence-your-free-guide/ Do you have requests for other free guides? tricia(at)shiftingschools (dotcom)2025-03-2705 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsConflicted about AI? Try being conflicted with AI...In this episode, Tricia Friedman discusses her exploration of AI's potential in enhancing conflict resolution skills. She shares insights from her research and the development of a conflict simulator bot designed to help users practice and improve their conflict navigation abilities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of feedback and collaboration in utilizing AI technology effectively. Learn more about Moxie Consensus AI and try out the bot mentioned in the episode: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67b5feb5a74c8191bb26074523bfc77a-conflict-simulator BIG IDEAS AI can a...2025-03-1712 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsNeurodiversity Celebration Week and AIIn this episode, Tricia Friedman introduces the Neurodivergent Nexus Bot in anticipation of Neurodiversity Celebration Week. She discusses the importance of viewing neurodivergence as a strength and shares her experiences using AI for deeper research. The episode highlights the bot's capabilities and encourages listeners to engage with it during the celebration week, while also inviting feedback for future podcast topics. Ready to try it out? https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67c60bad02d081919d23e47e9da20e21-neurodivergent-nexus-bot Please take our summer podcast series survey: https://us10.list-manage.com/survey...2025-03-0410 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsThe importance of slow reading in fast timesIn this conversation, Tricia Friedman and Rio Cortez discuss the themes and creative processes behind Rio's latest work, 'The ABCs of Women's History.' They explore the interdisciplinary approach to women's history, the importance of slow reading, and the joy of writing for children compared to adults. Rio shares insights into her collaborative process with illustrators and the significance of trusting readers to find their own meaning. The conversation concludes with a look at future projects and the potential for more educational works. Learn more about this book and Rio Cortez: https://www.riocortez.com/2025-03-0327 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsWhat do we learn when we compare an AI coach to an accomplished coach?Tricia Friedman and Robert Landau explore the integration of strengths assessments with AI, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual strengths in team dynamics. They discuss the various domains of strengths, the role of empathy in education, and how personal experiences shape these strengths. Robert and Tricia go further into the importance of individualization strengths in understanding unique qualities in people, the role of strategic thinking, and the impact of AI in coaching. Ready to connect with Robert Landau? https://www.tworoadsed.org/ Want to try out the prompts Tricia used? ...2025-02-2459 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsWhat Do Generational Differences Mean for Educators and Leaders Today?In this episode of the Shifting Schools podcast, Tricia Friedman interviews Jeff Utecht about the importance of understanding generational differences in education and leadership. They discuss how each generation's upbringing shapes their expectations and behaviors, particularly in the context of technology and social media. Jeff emphasizes the need for educators and parents to adapt their approaches to meet the needs of today's students, who are influenced by a vastly different social landscape than previous generations. The conversation also touches on the challenges of parenting in a digital age and the importance of teaching responsible social media use. ...2025-02-1724 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsJeff on Outliers: How we get past the knee-jerk responseThis week we bring you a special episode of another show you might like: Outliers. "Outliers in Education" is a project of CEE, The Center for Educational Effectiveness. Find out more at effectiveness.org. Produced by Jamie Howell at Howell at the Moon Productions. Jeff Utecht goes deep into how AI tools like ChatGPT-4 have the potential to revolutionize the classroom. Utecht helps us navigate the delicate balance of excitement and fear around AI's role in education, offering valuable insights into how educators can best serve their students in this new era. 2025-02-1034 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsLeveraging the Super Bowl for Media LiteracyLinks: Three ways to leverage the big game (free pdf download) Sponsor: Neulight and their MTSS AI product IntelliTier Summary In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman discuss the intersection of the Super Bowl and media literacy. They explore how educators can leverage the Super Bowl's advertising to teach students about media literacy, storytelling, and critical thinking. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding advertising intentions, engaging families in discussions about media, and the role of AI in advertising. They also announce an upcoming webinar s...2025-02-0317 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsRethinking the IQ test with Pepper StetlerOn the show this week Jeff and Tricia talk with author, Pepper Stetler about the new book A Measure of Intelligence: One Mother's Reckoning with the IQ Test. Pepper Stetler is a Professor of Art History at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She writes extensively on issues facing people with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Slate, The Progressive, the Ploughshares blog and Gulf Coast. Stetler also researches and writes about the art and photography of early twentieth-century Europe and the United States...2025-01-1330 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsSpecial episode: Tricia talks AIThis week Shifting Schools is sharing another podcast with you: Women Talkin' 'Bout AI 🎙️ In this episode of Women Talkin' 'Bout AI, host Dr. Kimberly Becker welcomes Tricia Friedman, an all-around educational innovator who's been doing really future-forward and inclusive work in AI literacy and community building. In this powerful conversation, international educator and neuroqueer futurist Tricia uncovers the profound potential of AI in education while maintaining authentic human connections. Key Insights: -The critical need for AI literacy in K-12 and higher education -Reimagining learning assessment in the age of gene...2025-01-061h 14
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsIs taking play seriously the secret to stellar leadership?In this conversation, Tricia and Joel Birch explore the transformative power of Lego Serious Play as a facilitation method. Joel shares his background in music and comedy, discussing how these experiences inform his approach to facilitating workshops. They get into the importance of play in communication, the dynamics of team interactions, and the unique benefits of virtual facilitation. The discussion highlights the role of a facilitator in creating a safe space for expression and the similarities and differences between K-12 education and corporate environments. Joel emphasizes the need for skilled facilitators to guide participants through the process, ensuring that...2024-12-3048 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsChanging perceptions of manufacturing in schoolsIn this conversation, Jeff Utecht and John Gardner discuss the critical role of manufacturing in the American economy and the importance of education in preparing students for careers in this field. Gardner emphasizes the need to change perceptions of manufacturing, highlighting its high-tech nature and the lucrative opportunities it offers. They explore how K-12 education has shifted away from vocational training, leading to a shortage of skilled workers. The discussion also covers the importance of real-world applications in education and creating pathways for students to succeed in manufacturing careers. Key highlights of this episode include: +...2024-12-2334 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsThe potential of AI for multilingual learnersIn this conversation, Jeff Utecht and Professor Brent Warner explore the intersection of AI and education, particularly focusing on multilingual learners. They discuss how AI can empower students to take control of their learning, the innovative techniques for vocabulary building through prompting, and the importance of teaching prompt engineering skills. Brent shares insights on redesigning rubrics to be more equitable and effective, while also emphasizing the importance of transparency in using AI in educational settings. The conversation culminates in Brent's upcoming book aimed at helping teachers integrate technology into their classrooms for multilingual learners. Learn more about o...2024-12-0247 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsA New Era in MTSS with AIIn this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht interviews Jose, founder and CEO of Neulight, about the transformative potential of AI in education. They discuss IntelliTier, which enhances the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework by simplifying data collection and providing personalized intervention strategies for students. Jose shares insights on the importance of user experience for teachers, the feedback received from early adopters, and the future of data-driven decision-making in education. The conversation emphasizes the need for technology to support educators in their roles, allowing them to focus more on student interaction rather than administrative tasks. Jose's...2024-11-2530 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsAsking better questions about what is possible with AIIn this conversation, Tricia and Laura discuss the intersection of ableism, artificial intelligence, and education. They explore how AI can serve as an assistive device to enhance access and equity, particularly in educational settings. Laura shares personal experiences and insights on how AI can foster curiosity and agency in learners, especially those with disabilities. They also touch on the importance of community support and sharing knowledge to create a more inclusive environment for all. Ready to learn more about our amazing guest? Laura Germishuys is a speaker and disability consultant, focusing on accessibility, workplace accommodations...2024-11-1835 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsAI Detection is a waste of your time, so now what?In this episode, Jeff Utecht interviews Michelle Kassorla, an associate professor of English at Georgia State University, about using generative AI in higher education. They discuss the importance of teaching AI literacy, the role of AI in the writing process, and the benefits of using AI to support student learning. Michelle shares her insights on assessment, transparency, and the creative opportunities that AI provides for students. She also discusses the development of AI literacy standards for higher education and offers practical tips for integrating AI into the classroom. Michelle Kassorla, Ph.D., an Associate Professor at Georgia...2024-10-1439 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsA great way to center student voice when it comes to generative AIIn this conversation, Jeff Utecht interviews Dr. Dayamudra Dennehy, a community college teacher, about the incorporation of generative AI in classrooms. They discuss the importance of including students in the conversation about AI and the need for a nuanced approach to ethics. Dayamudra shares her project of having students create AI manifestos as a way to explore the ethical use of AI. They also talk about the need for educators to have a growth mindset and be curious about technology. Dayamudra emphasizes the importance of educators being involved in the development of AI tools and holding tech companies accountable.2024-10-0730 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsWhat a professor of education has to say about the future of teaching with AIDr. Min Sun, a professor of education at the University of Washington, discusses the work of AmplifyLearn.ai, a center focused on harnessing the power of AI to improve teaching and learning. The center conducts scientific research, develops AI-powered education technology, offers training programs, and engages in public dissemination of research. Dr. Sun explains the development of Colleague.ai, a specialized AI assistant for K-12 educators that streamlines tasks such as lesson planning, differentiation, and grading. She emphasizes the importance of thoughtful design and research in AI development and envisions a future where AI transforms teaching and learning, making...2024-09-2344 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsSpecial bonus episode: Try out our Free Power of Play Planner!Tricia and Jeff are so excited about the soon to start 'Power of Play' summer pod series, so they thought they would bring listeners a special free resource to pair with it. Would you like to be more intentional with play this summer? Grab our free template and get started today: https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/power-of-play/ Tune in Monday for the first episode in our Power of Play series. Reach out to Tricia and Jeff to share your thoughts on any of our resources: info (at) shiftingschools (d...2024-06-0706 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators340: AI’s Role in Strengthening Executive Function Tricia and Jeff discuss the final week of their May Micro Menu Prompt Challenge, focusing on AI and executive function. They highlight the importance of executive function skills in enacting learning and provide three mega prompts to support the development of these skills. Tricia shares her experience using generative AI for gardening and landscaping, while Jeff explores the use of AI for project management. They also announce their upcoming summer mini-series on the power of play. Takeaways Executive function skills are crucial for organizing and enacting learning. Generative AI can be used for gardening and landscaping, providing information on plant id...2024-05-2726 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators339: Can generative AI help my learners boost the power of play?Jeff Utecht and Tricia discuss the importance of AI literacy and introduce their AI literacy course. They also talk about the recent updates from OpenAI and Google in the field of AI. They highlight the significance of AI in social-emotional learning. They also explore the power of play and share prompts for creating interactive stories using AI. They emphasize the importance of involving parents in AI conversations and providing them with prompts to engage their children in learning over the summer. Ready to get the free guide they discuss today? https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/micro-menu-part-3...2024-05-2025 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators338: Can generative AI help me rethink feedback in the classroom?Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman discuss the second menu for the May Micro Menu Challenge. They provide prompts and resources to help educators experiment with AI literacy. They also address common questions, such as how to keep up with AI developments and whether to upgrade to the paid version of ChatGPT. They emphasize the importance of community-based learning and the need to prioritize privacy when using AI tools. In this conversation, Jeff and Tricia discuss the limitations of generative AI and the importance of understanding its capabilities. They emphasize the need for educators to have an organizing principle, such...2024-05-1349 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators337: Micro Menu Month Launches: AI Literacy for TeamsJeff and Tricia introduce their new micro menu for the month of May, which focuses on experimenting with generative AI in different contexts. They emphasize the importance of actually interacting with AI tools and the power of collaborative conversations about the output. They also mention their sponsor, Lebra, and answer questions about handling change and choosing the right generative AI tool. In this conversation, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman discuss the importance of getting familiar with and using generative AI tools, specifically ChatGPT. This episode also will introduce the Drive Framework, which stands for dialogue, re-imagine, interdependence...2024-05-0642 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators336: The Role of the Librarian in the Era of AI This week Tricia interviews two of her alltime fav librarians about the role of librarians in cultivating AI literacy. Karina and Allie discuss the responsibility of librarians in fostering AI literacy, curating resources, and teaching AI ethics. They also explore the impact of social media algorithms on readers' preferences and the importance of providing guidance in book recommendations. The librarians share their favorite AI tools, such as Magic School, Diffit, and Curipod, and emphasize the need for librarians to experiment and find tools that work best for them. They also discuss the influence of TikTok and Bookstagram in promoting...2024-04-2942 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators335: Is K12 education future ready right now?In this episode, Jeff Utecht interviews Chris Linsell, a real estate technologist, about the intersection between technology and real estate. They discuss the disruptions happening in the real estate industry and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming the profession. Chris emphasizes the importance of soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, in addition to technical skills. He highlights the need for professionals to understand and interpret human motivations and emotions in order to effectively communicate and negotiate in real estate transactions. Chris also emphasizes the importance of continual learning and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. 2024-04-2237 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators333: Integrating AI Literacy into Earth Day CelebrationsImagine students grappling with AI-crafted ethical dilemmas. They're not just learning about sustainability – they’re learning how to question, research, and discern credible information. It’s about nurturing critical thinking and responsible info consumption – the core of information literacy 🌎 Want to dig into our free guide 'Generative AI and Earth Day'? https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/earth-day-and-chatgpt/ Want to join Tricia and Jeff tomorrow? Take $25 off you registration with promo code 'SSPOD25' https://www.shiftingschools.com/store-2/p/ai-fueled-feedback-webinar Huge thanks to our amazing show sponsors for supporting u...2024-04-0818 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators332: Here's why we need more student podcasters: meet Zach of We the ChildrenOur special guest this week is Zach, the host of the incredible podcast 'We The Children' Zachary Fox-DeVol, or Zach, is a curious 12-year-old with a passion for the environment and a mind eager to learn more about our planet. In June 2020, during a summer writing project, Zach ventured into the world of podcasting and created "Rule Of The Bark" . This unique podcast, told from a dog's perspective, provides humorous interviews and helpful tips on raising dogs. Zooming ahead to December 2021, Zach’s interest took a serious turn toward climate change. This led to 'We Th...2024-04-0140 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators331: Core Skills in the Age of AI: What Remains Essential?In this episode, Jeff Utecht interviews Pete Huang from The Neuron, a daily newsletter that explores AI. They discuss the origin of The Neuron and how it started as an experiment with AI-generated content. They also explore the landscape of AI and its potential impact on various industries. Pete shares his insights on the future of AI, including the use of customizable GPTs. He also explains how AI is leveraged within The Neuron, particularly in automating repetitive tasks. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of AI in education and its potential benefits and challenges. The conversation...2024-03-2539 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators330: Demystify student motivation with Tyler RablinIn this conversation, Jeff Utecht interviews Tyler Rablin about his new book, 'Hacking Student Motivation.' They discuss the importance of feedback and assessment in motivating students, the impact of grades and assessment on student motivation, and the need for change in education. Tyler shares his experiences working with students in rural agricultural communities and the challenges they face in finding motivation in school. He also explains the concept of learning progressions and how they can replace rubrics to support student learning. The conversation concludes with Tyler expressing his excitement about the release of his book and the positive...2024-03-1839 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators320: Being Mindful in the Moment with Dr. Rina BajajOur mental health series continues with Dr. Rina Bajaj. This conversation brings us great ways to reframe our inner monologue and strategies to refresh our approach to caring for self and combatting burnout. This series is sponsored by Money Pickle, learn more about ways to connect with an advisor today: https://www.moneypickle.com/shiftingschools Learn more about our guest: Dr Rina Bajaj is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with over 17 years of experience within the field of mental health. In 2017, she founded her private consultancy, Rina Bajaj Ltd, which offers a specialist therapeutic...2024-01-0828 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators319: What is an 'emotionally healthy school'? with Dr. Deborah OffnerOur first episode in our brand new mental health series kicks off with Dr. Deborah Offner. This series is sponsored by Money Pickle, learn more about ways to connect with an advisor today: https://www.moneypickle.com/shiftingschools Our special guest Dr. Offner is here to help us think more specifically about ways to support the mental health of our school community. We also explore her brand new book: Educators as First Responders: A Teacher's Guide to Adolescent Development and Mental Health, Grades 6-12 Ready to learn more about Dr. Offner?2024-01-0128 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators318: AI Literacy Experiments for the FamilyIn this episode, Jeff and Tricia discuss their favorite holiday food, introduce a new free guide on experimenting with AI for families, announce an upcoming series on mental health, promote an AI literacy cohort for PLCs and committees, highlight Jeff's work on Washington State guidelines and policies, mention upcoming conferences, discuss the link between AI literacy and DEIJ/media literacy, and tease the upcoming 2024 Protocols Free Guide. Takeaways Experimenting with AI can be a fun and educational activity for families, and a new free guide provides three ways to get started. The...2023-12-2535 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators317: Bonus Episode Tricia on the concept of 'screentime' and more...Join us for this bonus episode where Tricia is a guest on the BFIS 'The Future is Now Podcast.' Ready to follow that show? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-benjamin-franklin-international-school-podcast/id1714268067 Find all of the resources mentioned here. Listener Challenge: - Be the first to review from your state and win access to our AI course bundle. Leave a review on any podcast platform and email us at info@shiftingschools.com. How to Connect: - Follow us on everywhere: @shiftingschools and @s...2023-12-2236 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators316: Bonus Episode - Integrating Technology in Education with Jeff UtechtEpisode Description: Join us for this bonus episode were host Jeff Utecht becomes the interviewee on the Have A Life Teaching Podcast. You can subscribe to the Have A Life Teaching Podcast here: https://pod.link/1702975996 Episode Highlights: 1. Shout-out to Listeners: A special thanks to our listeners in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and France for your wonderful ratings and reviews! Remember, the first reviewer from each state gets access to our exclusive AI course bundle. 2. Jeff Utecht - A Brief Introduction: Get to know our guest, Jeff Utecht, a leader in educational technology and innovation. 3...2023-12-2035 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsBonus Episode: Meet US Principal of the Year!This special bonus episode points you to a recent conversation with Donna Hayword, US Principal of the Year (2023) via a brand new podcast: Sustainable Innovation from NEASC. Sustainable Innovation: By and for K-12 educational leaders NEASC is proud to present this five-part podcast series created by and for educational leaders on themes of key importance including artificial intelligence (AI), technology in education, student agency, and building sustainable systems and cultures of innovation in our schools. The NEASC Sustainable Innovation series serves: Participants in the 2023 NEASC Leadership Conference who wish to prepare for and augment th...2023-11-2926 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators312: Can we use AI to teach creative writing?Delve into the transformative world of generative AI text-to-image technology and its burgeoning role in creative writing. Our journey begins with an exploration of how AI-generated images can act as creative catalysts for writers, offering a vivid, visual interpretation of their penned thoughts. We discuss the free guide available to help educators try out the 'tone words' and vocabular work Jeff and Tricia discuss. Wanna grab the free guide? https://www.shiftingschools.com/free-pdfs We examine how integrating this technology into the curriculum can serve as a powerful tool for fostering creativity and...2023-11-2718 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsJoin the Shifting Schools CommunityIn the ever-changing landscape of education, we bring you to the forefront of school transformation and innovation. Welcome to Shifting Schools! I'm Jeff Utecht, an educator of 24 years and full time educational consultant. Each week I’m joined by the fantastic Tricia Friedman who is a passionate 20 year veteran English teacher and consultant. Together, we unpack the biggest challenges and the most exciting breakthroughs in K-12 education. From harnessing technology to personalize learning to social emotional learning, Shifting Schools is your weekly dose of inspiration and practical strategies. Do you ever wonder about how...2023-11-0702 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsNurturing Informed Citizens with CIVIX's Dimitri PavlounisExplore the profound impacts of digital literacy and political engagement initiatives by CIVIX, and discover resources that can transform classrooms into hubs of critical thought and respectful discourse. We sit down with Dimitri Pavlounis, the Director of Research at CIVIX. Our discussion unravels around two pivotal programs at CIVIX: CTRL-F and PoliTalks, which are meticulously crafted to bolster digital literacy and political awareness among the youth. Our guest explores the resources and tools available for educators aiming to ignite engaging political discussions in classrooms. They share a vision of nurturing students to practice active listening, pe...2023-11-0648 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators307: Elevating Media Literacy Through Screen Language: Insights from Sherard Duvall Discover how Sherard Duvall went from spinning beats to spinning tales that captivate and educate. In a surprising twist, this DJ-turned-filmmaker found that the language of screens held the key to bridging the gap between storytelling and education. Join him on a journey where the power of human connection meets the magic of screen language. Get ready to dive into the world of screen language, where the episode dives deep and enables listeners to: Discover the power of media literacy education and how it can enhance student learning. Understand the importance of screen language in our digital world...2023-10-2342 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsHow do we bring brave beginners and bold early adopters together to explore AI Literacy? In this episode of the Shifting Schools podcast, you'll join Tricia and Jeff as they dive into their recent experiences and reflections on AI and education. They're excited to share the consulting work they've been doing and the innovative ways they're incorporating AI into the classroom. Tricia discusses her passion for teaching creative writing and how she's been using AI-generated art to fuel students' creativity. Jeff, on the other hand, shares his experiences working with school leaders and presenting at conferences, highlighting the importance of teaching AI as an equity issue. They also discuss AI literacy and the need...2023-10-1426 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators301: Fine-tuning the conversation about failure with Jessica LaheyJessica Lahey is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. Jess was awarded the Research Society on Alcohol’s Media Award for “outstanding journalistic efforts of writers who cover empirical research on alcohol” […] “for her book The Addiction Inoculation and advocacy for the recovery community.” Over twenty years, Jess has taught every grade from sixth to twelfth in both public and private schools, and spent five years teaching in a drug an...2023-09-1156 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators300: How might ChatGPT help us reflect on human-centric skills? Jeff begins by emphasizing how ChatGPT enable educators to offer tailored content and support to a diverse range of students, meeting them at their individual learning levels. He cites examples of how this AI-driven technology can adapt lessons, provide personalized feedback, and assist students with varying needs, making the learning experience more inclusive and engaging. Tricia further expands on this by discussing how ChatGPT can help educators save time and energy when it comes to fostering relationships with the parent and caretakers at their school. Together, they explore how ChatGPT serves as an invaluable tool for educators...2023-09-0643 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators299: Unlocking the Potential of esports in Education: with Elliot Mack, Co-founder of Daigon Esports In this episode of the Shifting Schools Podcast, Jeff Utecht sits down with Elliot Mack, the co-founder of Daigon Esports, our generous sponsor for the esports mini-series. What do we discuss? The educational benefits of esports How Daigon Esports is shaping the future of educational technology Ways to integrate esports into your classroom curriculum What do we investigate? Educational Technology Esports in Education Classroom Integration Why Listen? If you’re an educator, administrator, or simply interested in the intersection of esports and educational technology, this episode is a must-watch. Learn how to bring the competitive, collaborative, and str...2023-09-0435 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators298: Unlocking Minds with Minecraft with Janey LaneyJoin us as we unravel the stories that emerge when esports and gaming becomes a lifelong compass for learning. This week's guest is thought leader Janey Laney, a content creator and podcaster bridging the gap between education, gaming & tech. Our guest takes us on a journey where gaming serves as a conduit for boundless education. Janey uncovers the profound community dynamics that power the world of gaming, weaving networks and inspiration together into a seamless fabric of connectivity. Delve into the unexplored corners of education, technology, and empowerment, and glimpse a future where gaming becomes a portal...2023-08-2852 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators297: Campfire Conversations: Leadership in AI and What It Means for SchoolsIn this Off The Cuff episode, Jeff Utecht and Tricia dive into the exciting launch of https://camp.shiftingschools.com and their groundbreaking course on Leadership in AI. Discover how AI is shaping the future of education and why school leaders should be at the forefront of this technological revolution. Key Points: Introduction to https://camp.shiftingschools.com A new platform for educators and leaders to collaborate and share resources. Features and benefits of being a part of this community. Leadership in AI Course Importance of understanding AI in today's educational landscape...2023-08-2824 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsTrailer: What's on deck for September at Shifting SchoolsHello, Shifting Schools community! Jeff Utecht here, as we wrap up our exciting journey into eSports Tricia and I wanted to share what we have coming up next for you in September. As we start the new school year, we're diving in with a brand new mini-series focused on Social Emotional Learning, or SEL, a topic that we know is front and center in the minds of educators as we start another school year. And we're not doing it alone. I'm thrilled to announce our guest list for this enlightening mini-series, a line-up of voices...2023-08-1902 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators295: What's at the intersection of law and gaming?Unravel the complexities of video game ethics as we embark on a dialogue with Dr. Leon Xiao, a distinguished expert at the crossroads of gaming and law. In this episode, we probe into the innovative ways gaming and law intersect, and how they shape the experience of game play. This episode helps us explore more pathways available in the gaming industry and asks us to think more creatively about how differing passions might intersect. Ready to learn more about our guest? Leon is a PhD Fellow at the IT University of Copenhagen. He also holds...2023-08-1441 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators288: What does it mean to be a true library advocate?On this episode of the podcast Jeff and Tricia speak with Allie Cornejo who is a High School Librarian/Lead Librarian in Harlingen, TX. She is chair of the TLA Public Relations and Marketing Committee, as well as chair for TASL's Legislative and Advocacy Committee, and co-hosts the Libraries Transform Texas Podcast. She is an enthusiast of YA lIt and graphic novels, and can often be found reading them late into the night with her booklight. Ready to connect with this week's guest? Twitter - @allie_cornejo, Instagram & Facebook - @alliethelibrarian More about...2023-06-2646 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators282: What's the Connection Between AI Literacy and LGBTQ+ Inclusive Schools?How are your conversations about generative AI tools like ChatGPT centering and focusing on equity and inclusion? On this episode, we dig into that and provide listeners an opportunity to go further with our latest free guide! You can download AI LIteracy and LGBTQ+ Inclusion here Did you want to enter to win a seat to the June 3rd Pride and Less Prejudice celebrity panel? Download the guide by 9pm EST on June 1st to enter or email tricia (at) shiftingschools.com by that deadline using the email subject 'enter to...2023-06-0111 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators280: Designing the Future: David Jakes and the Design Thinking Classroom RevolutionWelcome back to Shifting Schools, the podcast where innovative educational approaches meet the ever-evolving landscape of learning. Join host Jeff Utecht as he converses with renowned educator, forward-thinking leader, and author of "The Design Thinking Classroom," Mr. David Jakes. In this episode, they explore the transformative power of design thinking in the educational sphere. Alongside the stimulating conversation, we're offering listeners a chance to win one of three copies of Jakes' inspiring book. However, this isn't all the episode has in store. In their commitment to future-forward education, the team at Shifting Schools is excited to announce...2023-05-2252 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsThe ChatGPT assessment conversation we want more ofReady for an Eggcellent Adventure? Let's explore the Egg Drop Challenge with ChatGPT 🐣🔬 In this egg-ceptionally fun episode for Day of AI, your hosts Jeff and Tricia are breaking a few eggs as they explore the ultimate egg drop competition reimagined with ChatGPT as a learning buddy! 🥚 Episode Highlights: 1️⃣ We explore our Shifting Schools 'PROMPT' framework which helps give clear guidance for prompt writers 2️⃣ We preview a handful of the 18 prompt examples found in our latest free guide (see below to download!) 3️⃣ We talk about the skills involved in effectively...2023-05-1831 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsIs equity getting the spotlight it deserves in our conversations about AI?On this episode of the podcast Jeff and Tricia tell listeners all about the latest free guide: "Kickstarting a critical conversation about equity and generative AI." They explain why terms like 'algorithmic bias,' and 'search engine optimization' are important for students to understand as critical to the way we think about information literacy in the new era of generative AI tools. Discussed in this episode: Would you let an AI date for you? Survival of the best fit Facebook’s ad-serving algorithm discriminates by gender and ra...2023-04-1326 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators265: Feedback as fuel for trustIn this episode, we explore the transformative power of feedback for leaders. Drawing from the insightful article "How Leaders Can Get the Feedback They Need to Grow" from Harvard Business Review by Kim Scott, Liz Fosslien, and Mollie West Duffy (2023), we discuss the importance of seeking feedback as a means of enhancing trust in our learning community. We examine the common barriers that leaders face when seeking feedback and consider key questions to reflect on in order to overcome these obstacles. From the fear of criticism to the illusion of knowing everything, we explore the mental roadblocks...2023-03-2227 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 EducatorsSparking and sustaining the social media conversation at homeHow are we helping parents and caretakers as they seek to learn more about digital literacy and social media? On this episode Jeff and Tricia discuss recent research that makes the link between too much unregulated screentime and anxiety. So what do we do to help one another be more mindful of our social media use? Jeff walks listeners through his PARENT framework and talks more about ways he can support your parent/caretaker audience and ways he can help your PTA sustain a conversation about social media in this ever-shifting landscape of digital literacy.2023-03-0929 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators260: Who does the library belong to?Often the cliche 'the library is the heart of the school' is heard in literacy circles...but what does it mean to listen to a library's heartbeat? On the podcast this week we hear directly from award-winning librarian Karina Quilantán about the journey she's explored in telling the story of her library. We also discuss the way librarians and educators can learn from one another through social media. If you are curious to learn more about what a 'future-ready' library is all about, Karina has stellar advice to share. Learn more about t...2023-03-0627 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators258: Have you started a conversation about social media with your students lately?Ready to get our new free guide "Exploring our relationship with social media"? Click here and head over to shiftingschools.com to see our 70+ free guides! Check out Jeff's recent episode about parenting and caretaking with social media and healthy digital habits in mind, you can read it here. Today's guest is Andréa Jones and she's here to talk about her journey in becoming a social media strategist. Andréa Jones is the creator and lead social media strategist at OnlineDrea.com They help businesses create an impact bey...2023-02-2734 minShifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators255: Nine of our Favorite Note-taking StrategiesWe asked our community of Shifting Schools newsletter subscribers to vote on this week's topic and they voted for a conversation on note-taking strategies. (By the way did you know you can also sign up for our free newsletter at www.shiftingschools.com?) Jeff and Tricia were so excited to discuss their nine favorite strategies in this week's episode: 1. Demystify the process: make space for learners to share what note-taking strategies they’ve developed by inviting students to so short share-outs or small group presentations. 2. Collaborative note-taking: invite groups or...2023-02-1737 min
Schoolutions: Teaching Strategies to Strengthen School Culture, Empower Educators, & Inspire Student GrowthS2 E23: Schoolutions & Shifting Schools Collaboration: What is the Role of the Educational Podcast? with Olivia Wahl & Co-hosts Jeff Utecht and Tricia FriedmanThis week is a special collaborative episode with the co-hosts of the Shifting Schools podcast, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman. We reflect on our journeys as podcasters - offering up podcasts that have influenced us most, stand-out episodes from our own podcasts, and lessons learned from our guests. Listen to be inspired and hear what we value and believe to be true in order to do right by you, our listeners. Shifting Schools Podcast with Co-Hosts, Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedmanfree guide on leveraging the power of podcasts free guide on backward chaining Episode 72: The 4 Shift ProtocolEpisode 207: John and...2023-02-1330 min