Shows
Teach SmarterCognitive Justice in the Age of AI with Zaretta HammondZaretta Hammond joins us to explore how AI and edtech can either reinforce a pedagogy of compliance or unlock true cognitive justice for students. We dig into over-scaffolding, feedback loops, the science of learning, and how teachers can reclaim their role as personal trainers of student thinking instead of just content deliverers.Zaretta is the author of Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain and a national consultant with over 25 years of experience helping educators deepen their instructional equity practices. Her upcoming book expands on this work, challenging educators to rethink how we coach cognition in an AI-saturated...2025-07-2350 min
Teach SmarterWhat Lasting Change in Education Really Takes with Commissioner Angélica Infante-GreenCommissioner Angélica Infante Green joins us to talk about what it actually takes to create lasting change in education. From improving attendance to implementing high-quality curriculum with fidelity, she shares how Rhode Island is staying focused without chasing the next big thing. We also get into how AI can support good teaching without replacing it, and what it means to lead with clarity in a shifting landscape.2025-07-1543 min
Teach SmarterThe Truth About Privacy with Former NSA Insider Dr. Leslie GruisIn this episode of "Teach Smarter," Peter talks with Dr. Leslie Gruis, a former NSA official who now works with students and writes about data privacy. We discuss how her time in national security shaped her understanding of surveillance and why commercial tech companies, not the government, may pose the bigger threat to student data. Leslie also shares what she's seeing in classrooms today, how AI tools are affecting how students learn, and what privacy really means in a world where most kids don't think they have any.2025-07-081h 00
Teach SmarterWhy Most EdTech Falls Short with Dr. Rachel SchechterWhat does it take to create educational technology that actually works? Dr. Rachel Schechter knows better than most. With a background researching Dora the Explorer and now as founder of LXD Research, she's spent her career understanding how kids learn through media and technology.In this episode, Rachel pulls back the curtain on EdTech research, sharing why most digital tools fail to deliver and what educators can do about it. She tackles uncomfortable truths about classroom expectations—like why it's impossible for teachers to truly individualize instruction for 30 students—and offers practical strategies for evaluating technology that actu...2025-06-2450 min
Teach SmarterHow AI Is Reshaping School Psychology with Dr. Adam LockwoodIn this conversation, Dr. Adam B. Lockwood discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on school psychology and education. He shares insights on how school psychologists are currently using AI, particularly in areas like IEP goal creation and crisis intervention. The discussion also covers ethical concerns surrounding AI, its potential to democratize cheating, and the implications for creativity and critical thinking in students. Dr. Lockwood emphasizes the need for professionals to adapt to AI's growing presence in education and the importance of open dialogue about its use.Connect with Dr. Adam Lockwood:🔗 LinkedIn2025-06-1749 min
Teach SmarterMATSOL Conference Recap: AI, WIDA, and Differentiation That WorksI had the privilege of presenting at the MATSOL Conference, where I led a session on using AI to support multilingual learners. This episode breaks down what we covered, including how to pair WIDA Can Do descriptors with tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and NotebookLM.If you're planning for MLLs and looking for ways to scaffold without lowering expectations, this one's for you. I share practical strategies, sample prompts, and a few common mistakes to avoid.Want to try writing your own AI prompt? Head to teachsmarteredu.com/teachprompting and use the free TEACH Prompting...2025-06-1315 min
Teach SmarterYou Can’t Automate Trust with Crystal FrommertTeachers know parent communication matters, but knowing how to do it well is another story. In this episode, Stephanie sits down with educator and author Crystal Frommert to unpack what meaningful communication with families actually looks like. They talk about why newsletters fall short, how to build trust without burning out, and when it's time to stop emailing and just pick up the phone. They also dig into how AI tools can support communication without losing the human connection.Find Crystal's Book Here: https://a.co/d/2D6Uiq0 Connect...2025-06-0235 min
Teach SmarterRethinking AI Literacy with Tricia FriedmanIn this episode, Pete and Stephanie sit down with Tricia Friedman—Director of Learning & Strategy at Shifting Schools—to unpack what AI literacy should look like if we want students (and educators) to actually be ready for what’s coming next.Tricia introduces her REFRAME framework, explains the concept of futures literacy, and shares practical ways educators can shift from fear-based policies to curiosity-driven conversations. From classroom assessment redesigns to conflict mediation bots and dolphin communication, this episode is about expanding how we think—not just automating what we already do.Explore more from Tricia:→ L...2025-05-211h 05
Teach SmarterFrom Data Chaos to Clarity with Chris HullIn this episode, I talk with Chris Hull, a former teacher and the co-founder of Otus, a platform that helps schools manage assessment, data, and instruction in one place. We dig into how Otus came to be, what makes edtech actually usable, and how AI can support teachers without getting in the way.The conversation centers on one tool, but the focus is on what it means to build solutions that come from real classroom experience.Learn more about Chris at linkedin.com/in/chull9.2025-05-1343 min
Teach SmarterAI Won’t Fix Higher Ed but It Might Force Us To with Dr. Nik JanosAI isn’t just changing how students complete assignments—it’s forcing colleges to rethink everything from course design to institutional purpose. In this episode, Dr. Nik Janos, sociology professor at California State University, Chico, joins Pete and Stephanie to talk about what higher ed needs to confront in the age of AI. From assessment systems written before the internet to the collapse of the TA pipeline, they explore what’s becoming obsolete, what still matters, and how backward design can help educators rebuild with intention.2025-04-2949 minTeach SmarterWhat AI Lesson Plans Get Wrong (and How to Fix Them)AI tools like ChatGPT, MagicSchool, and SchoolAI are becoming go-to lesson planners for busy teachers. But are they actually building strong instruction? In this episode, Pete and Stephanie dig into new research that says not quite. They unpack what these tools are getting wrong, why it matters, and how educators can start using AI with more intention and less guesswork.2025-04-2436 min
Teach SmarterWhy Banning AI Might Backfire with Elliot HedmanIn this conversation, Elliot Hedman (Build Empathy) shares insights from his research on how students are using generative AI in schools, often in ways that go unnoticed by educators. Drawing on his experience designing digital learning tools for companies like LEGO, McGraw-Hill, and i-Ready, Elliot discusses the limitations of AI detection tools, the rise of paraphrased outputs, and why banning AI may be doing more harm than good. He emphasizes the need to focus on student thinking over polished output and shares healthier, more authentic ways to integrate AI into classroom practice. The discussion also highlights two of Elliot’s...2025-04-1449 min
Teach SmarterTeaching Writing with AI, Not Against It with Dr. Michelle KassorlaIn this conversation, Dr. Michelle Kassorla discusses the integration of AI in the writing classroom, emphasizing the shift from teaching against AI to teaching with it. She highlights the importance of formative assessment, the need for a focus on process over product, and the significance of teaching voice, tone, and audience awareness. Dr. Kassorla also addresses the challenges of AI's limitations, the necessity of transparency in AI use, and the distinction between academic integrity and academic dignity. The discussion concludes with insights on how AI can enhance critical thinking and prepare students for the future of writing.2025-04-0144 min
Teach SmarterAI Isn't a Strategy with Julie FossIn this episode, we’re joined by Julie Foss of True Nexus Consulting to cut through the noise around AI in education. Julie brings two decades of experience as a teacher, leader, and consultant—and she’s not here to hype the latest tool. Instead, we talk about what really matters: strategic implementation, change management, and how to align AI with the actual goals of your school or district.2025-03-2540 minTeach SmarterNotebook LM: Google’s Quietly Game-Changing ToolIn this episode, Pete and Stephanie dive into Notebook LM, a Google AI tool designed to help users synthesize information from multiple sources. They explore its key features, practical applications in education, and how it can support teachers in implementing curricula more effectively. The discussion also highlights Notebook LM’s interactive mode, which allows users to engage dynamically with the generated content. The episode wraps up with a podcast segment created on Notebook LM during the conversation.2025-03-1826 min
Teach SmarterTurning AI Fear into Fluency with Brent WarnerJoin us as we dive into the world of AI-powered language learning with Brent Warner, an award-winning community college professor and tech innovator. Brent works globally with teachers and organizations, offering practical strategies to help Multilingual Learners (MLLs) harness technology for clearer communication. A blogger for TESOL International, co-host of The DIESOL Podcast, and author of the soon-to-be-released EdTech for Multilingual Learners: 48 Fun & Flexible Activities for Every Classroom (ISTE), Brent shares how AI can transform fear into fluency. Discover how tools like ChatGPT empower shy students with private, judgment-free speaking practice, bridge personal goals, and inspire teachers to rethink...2025-02-2250 minTeach SmarterFETC 2025 – AI, EdTech, and Key TakeawaysIn this episode of Teach Smarter, Pete Siner and Stephanie discuss key insights from the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) 2025, exploring the latest advancements in AI for education. They break down how AI tools should enhance—not replace—teaching, the importance of professional development, and the Think Smarter framework for creating personalized student pathways. The conversation also tackles skepticism toward AI, ethical considerations, and the challenges educators face in navigating new technology. With a focus on practical, teacher-friendly solutions, Pete and Stephanie reflect on the biggest trends from FETC and what they mean for the future of education.2025-01-3128 minTeach SmarterThe Tapas Approach to PBL with John Sammon and Tara KoehlerHow can we transform ordinary lessons into extraordinary learning experiences? In this episode, we're joined by John Sammon and Tara Koehler, veteran educators and STEAM Professional Development Specialists from the Wappingers Central School District in New York. Together, they share their innovative strategies for blending Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Project-Based Learning (PBL) to empower both teachers and students.As co-authors of The Tapas Approach to Project-Based Learning: A Culinary Map for Educators on the Transformative Power of PBL, John and Tara provide actionable insights into their “Tapas Approach,” which helps educators create meaningful, bite-sized PBL experiences. They also...2025-01-2840 minTeach SmarterHow AI Can Help You Grow (Without Burning Out)In this solo episode of Teach Smarter, Stephanie dives into how AI can help educators focus on their own growth—personally and professionally. Drawing from a powerful gardening metaphor, she shares how tools like ChatGPT can guide teachers through the January doldrums, mapping out tailored professional development plans. Whether you're looking to grow in your teaching role or explore education-adjacent opportunities, this episode is packed with practical strategies and AI insights to help you cultivate your own garden. 2025-01-2417 minTeach SmarterMagicSchool AI: Worth the Hype or Overrated?In this episode Peter dives into Magic School, an AI-powered platform that helps K-12 teachers with tasks like lesson planning, grading, and student tracking. Pete breaks down how the platform’s tools can save time and make teaching more efficient, while offering personalized support for students. Tune in for a practical overview of how Magic School can streamline your classroom.2025-01-1128 minTeach SmarterSmarter Test Prep with AI (Without Selling Your Soul)In this conversation, Pete and Stephanie discuss the rapid developments in AI and its implications for education, particularly in the context of testing and data analysis. They explore how AI can help teachers manage overwhelming amounts of data and improve instructional planning, while also addressing the challenges posed by standardized testing and the need for effective data interpretation. In this conversation, Stephanie and Pete discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education, particularly in data analysis, curriculum alignment, and test preparation. They emphasize the need for efficient data processing to enhance teaching and learning, the importance of...2025-01-0642 minTeach SmarterIs It Cheating? AI, Integrity, and Assessment TruthsIn this solo episode of Teach Smarter, Stephanie discusses the evolving role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of understanding how schools and educators can effectively integrate AI into their teaching practices. She introduces the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS) as a tool to help educators navigate the complexities of AI use in student assessments and projects, providing a structured approach to ethical AI engagement. The conversation also highlights the varying perspectives of students regarding AI, the need for clear guidelines, and the potential for AI to enhance learning experiences.2024-12-3121 minTeach SmarterHow AI Is Reshaping Classrooms—for Better or WorseIn this solo episode, Pete Siner dives into the mechanics of AI and how understanding its inner workings can transform teaching, learning, and personal efficiency. From the differences between traditional and modern AI to real-world classroom applications, Pete explains how educators can use AI as a co-teacher to enhance collaboration and creativity. Learn why teaching students about AI is as important as teaching them how to use it, and explore key strategies for using AI tools effectively in schools. If you’re curious about how AI is reshaping education and our relationship with thinking, this episode is for you....2024-12-2023 minTeach SmarterCan AI Actually Make Students More Creative?In this candid and wide-ranging episode, Pete and Stephanie explore how AI can transform creativity in education. From generating dynamic assignments to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, they share practical ways teachers can use AI to reimagine instruction and inspire students. They also tackle common concerns about AI's role in the classroom, discuss the need for professional development, and highlight tools that can help both teachers and students unlock their creative potential. Whether you’re a seasoned tech user or just starting your AI journey, this episode offers actionable insights to enhance teaching and learning.2024-12-2045 minTeach SmarterGet Better AI Results with Better PromptsIn this episode, Pete and Stephanie discuss how to effectively communicate with AI in educational settings. They introduce the TEACH framework for prompting AI, explore the concept of AI hallucinations, and emphasize the importance of feedback and iteration in AI interactions. The conversation also covers the selection of appropriate AI tools and best practices for engaging with AI to enhance educational outcomes.2024-12-1134 minTeach SmarterWant More Time to Teach? Use AI Like This.Welcome to the first episode of our podcast, where we explore the intersection of AI and education. Join educators Stephanie D-R and Pete Siner as they dive into how AI is changing the way teachers work. From tackling time management to enhancing classroom efficiency, this episode sets the stage for practical insights and strategies to make teaching smarter, not harder.2024-12-1025 min