Shows
Once Upon a TechChapter Forty-eight: We talk with David Levi, Inventor and Founder at MicroKits about exploring electronics through playHave you seen a little green cassette taking over your social media feed recently? That’s a Synth-a-Sette, one of the delightful inventions from MicroKits. The stars aligned (and electric fields combined) for our interview with MicroKit inventor David Levi. Hear from David himself about falling in love with electronics, life as an inventor and entrepreneur, what it’s like to see your hard work go viral, and his vision of circuit creation for all! Find resources here.
2023-11-2929 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Forty-seven: Camilo Vieira teaches, researches, and provides professional development for CS education on a global scaleCamilo Viera is a computer science equity superhero. He’s providing evidence-based professional learning opportunities to educators in Columbia and beyond - and now, through the Global Center for Equitable CS Education, his work is more impactful than ever. Want to take your first steps into CS education? Camilo has three suggestions for you. Hear those suggestions - and more of Camilo’s inspiring story - on today’s episode. Find resources here.
2023-09-0533 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Forty-six: We talk with Brian Wright, Associate Professor in the School of Data Science at UVAWhat if you had the opportunity to create a new STEM field? To influence the way future leaders approach and facilitate a growing skillset and field? That’s a lot of pressure - and today’s guest, Brian Wright, is thriving under that pressure. Listen to learn about Brian’s work building the Data Science School at the University of Virginia, putting together the liberal art degree for the data age! Find resources here.
2023-05-1530 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Forty-five: CS Ready, change-making in our education system, and emPOWERmentSometimes an organization is just so interesting, you need two episodes to get all the juicy details. Today, we reconnect with CodeVA and chat with Jessica Lawson, CS Ready Schools program specialist, and Kristin Hott, Engagement Strategist, about their CS Ready Schools initiative and so many other ways they are empowering students and teachers through computer science education! Listen to find out how YOU can get this incredible support for incorporating CS into your school for FREE. Find resources here.
2023-02-0829 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 11: Exploring elementary students’ understanding of CS concepts with Feiya Luo and Wei YanThe goal of this blog and podcast series is to bring CS education research into the K-8 classroom. In this episode, I take a deep dive into exploring elementary students’ understanding of computer science and computational thinking concepts with Feiya Luo and Wei Yan. Feiya is an Assistant Professor in Instructional Technology at the University of Alabama and Wei is a Ph.D. candidate from the University of Florida, majoring in Educational Technology. Find resources here.
2022-10-0624 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Forty-four: We talk with Kakim Fung and his former student and now teacher colleague, Harold Aquino-GuzmanWhat is it like to teach alongside your former mentor? In this episode we interview Kakim Fung and his former student and now teacher colleague, Harold Aquino-Guzman. Kakim is a computer science, mathematics, English, and history teacher at George Wythe High School. He is on a mission: to give every student in the Richmond City Public Schools the opportunity to earn an associate degree while in high school. Harold is a former student of Kakim’s who struggled academically in middle school, but with Kakim’s guidance, went on to earn over 100 college credits during his high school career. He g...
2022-08-3027 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Forty-three: Catching Sarah and Kim on their summer - CSTA, CS Institute, and more!How’s your summer going? Join us for a catch-up episode where we share our updates and reflect on our amazing experience at the Computer Science Teachers’ Association Conference. Plus, the MOTHER of all announcements from Sarah ;) Listen and let us know - how are you spending your sunny August afternoons? Find resources here.
2022-08-0926 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 10: Confronting racism in CS through community, criticality, and citizenship with Aman YadavIn this episode, I take a deep dive into the paper, Breaking the Code: Confronting Racism in Computer Science through Community, Criticality, and Citizenship with Aman Yadav. He is a Professor in the College of Education and the College of Natural Science at Michigan State University. Aman’s teaching and research focuses on computational thinking, computer science education, and problem-based learning. Find resources here.
2022-06-2723 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 9: Using art to explore emotion, problem solving and identity in CS with Maggie DahnIn this episode, I take a deep dive into the paper, Dynamics of emotion, problem solving, and identity: Portraits of three girl coders with Maggie Dahn. She is an Associate Project Scientist at the University of California, Irvine working with the Connected Learning Lab and Creativity Labs. Maggie has a background in visual arts and engages in design research to study how people learn in different contexts and the affordances of art making for the development of voice and identity and issues of access and equity. Find resources here.
2022-06-2132 min
Once Upon a TechWe talk with Khushbu Kshirsagar about her Zine Fair experience at MozFestWhat happens when a mechanical engineer craves more play and curiosity in her day? She starts exploring ways to combine math, engineering, art, creativity, and play in a space and format that makes everyone feel welcome and included! On today’s episode of Once Upon a Tech, we speak to the amazing Khushbu Kshirsagar about her experience with the Mozfest Zine Fair and her awesome work in Brooklyn, New York. Find resources here.
2022-05-1420 minOnce Upon a TechWe talk with Pen-Yuan Hsing about how he makes open source connections at MozFestHave you ever met a scientist whose life goals include embracing their inner child and sharing all of their knowledge for free? You’re about to! Pen-Yuan Hsing is an ecologist, a marine biologist, and a passionate advocate for open source resources. He’s also curious, creative, and a delight to talk to! Learn all about Pen, his ongoing projects, and the way he wants to change the world on today’s Voices at Mozfest episode. Find resources here.
2022-05-1319 minOnce Upon a TechWe talk with Muskan Fatima about her surprising MozFest experienceLarge conferences like Mozfest can be intimidating for anyone (🙋🏻♀️), but hosting a session for the first time during a gap year when you’re trying to figure out what you want to do with your life? That’s next level! But for today’s Voices at MozFest podcast guest, Muskan Fatima, it was a breeze. Muskan joined us from Islamabad to talk about her surprising Mozfest experience, the amazing connections she’s made, and - of course! - how she wants to change the world. Don’t miss it! Find resources here.
2022-05-1326 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty-nine: We talk with Kristin Hott, Engagement Strategist for CodeVACodeVA is an organization focused on student and adult computer science education, advocacy, professional development for educators, and more. It’s a huge grassroots effort, and it takes a powerful team to guide a movement so big. We were lucky enough to speak with an integral member of that team: Kristin Hott, CodeVA’s incredible Engagement Strategist! We spoke with Kristin about CodeVA’s focus, their recent growth, and their exciting vision for the future of computer science education in the beautiful state of Virginia. Kristin’s enthusiasm is contagious - we bet that you’ll end this session just as ex...
2022-05-1033 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty-eight: We talk with Nick Grzeda, CS Supervisor for Loudoun County Public Schools about their CS education pipelineWhat should computer science education look like in K-12? Nick Grzeda and his team have a vision and are making it a reality in Loudoun County Public Schools! Their CS education pipeline includes support for elementary and middle school teachers through coaching and integrated curriculum and connecting CS with experiential learning opportunities for high school students. Plus they are generously sharing their resources and experiences with anyone who is looking to start their own CS education pipeline! Find resources here.
2022-04-0431 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty-seven: We talk with Fang Yi, educational technologist and Izzy McReynolds, student leader about the Women’s Maker Program at UVAWhat is the Women’s Maker Program at UVA? We spoke to Fang Yi, Educational Technologist at the UVA Library, and student leader Izzy McReynolds about the work they’re doing to create a haven for makers, tinkerers, and tech explorers. We also get a behind-the-scenes peek at the Girls Maker Camp and how they hope this experience will help educate middle school girls about gender equality issues in STEM, increase their interest and confidence in learning STEM, and bridge their experience gap in makerspace technologies that are widely used in STEM subjects. Find resources here.
2022-03-2930 minOnce Upon a TechWe talk with Stella Anne Teoh Ming Hui about the metaverse, philosophy, and her MozFest experienceWhat do philosophy and the metaverse have in common? How do we share knowledge and connect with each other in this ever-evolving virtual space? We spoke with Stella Anne Teoh Ming Hui right on the heels of her Youth & Futures Mozfest session, “Rethinking the Digital Space (Metaverse) through a Non-Digital Means: Philosophy”, to find out! This fascinating Voices at Mozfest interview is sure to push the boundaries of how you think about digital spaces. Find resources here.
This episode is part of a special Voices at MozFest series.
2022-03-2117 minOnce Upon a TechWe talk with Tani Olhanoski, co-founder of Mysilio about Web Monetization and her MozFest experienceWeb Monetization vs. web monetization? What’s the deal? In this Voices at Mozfest session, we sat down with Tani Olhanoski, CEO and co-founder of Mysilio, about how she’s working to make the internet more fun, safe, and creative for all. We bet that her passion will get you up and moving, too! Find resources here.
This episode is part of a special Voices at MozFest series.
2022-03-1117 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 8: CS and CT in preservice education and in the classroom with Anne LeftwichIn this episode, I take a deep dive into a report on the state of CS in preservice education programs and a special issue from ACM highlighting a variety of research on CT in preK-5 with Anne Leftwich. She is a Professor and Interim Chair of Instructional Systems Technology within the School of Education and an Adjunct Professor of Computer Science and the Barbara B. Jacobs Chair in Education and Technology at Indiana University – Bloomington. Find resources here.
2022-03-1029 minOnce Upon a TechWe talk with Aoibheann and her mom Iseult, wranglers for the Youth & Futures space at MozFestWe were feeling a little starstruck during our interview with one of the 2018 European Digital Girls of the Year, Aoibheann and her mom Iseult! In this episode, they give us a sneak preview of the Youth & Futures space at MozFest which is happening this year online, March 7-10. There’s really something for everyone to enjoy and learn from, so don’t miss this amazing opportunity to join a global community with a mission to build a better, healthier internet! Find resources here.
This episode is part of a special Voices at MozFest series.
2022-02-2128 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty-three: We talk with Bea Leiderman, Instructional Technology CoachIt’s almost Valentine's Day, which means it’s the perfect time for a LOVE story! Our wonderful guest for this episode, educator Bea Leiderman, and her love for Scratch & computer science education are sure to make you swoon. Grab some chocolates and enjoy the romance! Find resources here.
2022-02-0732 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty-two: 2021 Reflections with Sarah and KimIt’s almost 2022! Time to reflect on 2021, Once Upon a Tech Style… with guessing games, challenges, and a good old fashioned lightning round :) Thanks for listening this year, and for being a part of our community at the intersection of technology and literacy. We’re so glad you’re here! PS: We want to know - if you had to choose one word to describe YOUR 2021, what would it be?? Find resources here.
2021-12-3038 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty-one: We talk with Kala Somerville, Executive Director of C4KWhat does the executive director of a nonprofit organization do? How does a nonprofit organization grow and change to meet the evolving needs of a community? What does it feel like to be at the helm of a community nonprofit organization navigating a global pandemic? We went all in with the BIG questions for our interview with Kala Somerville, Executive Director of beloved Charlottesville nonprofit C4K. And even though there were no softballs in the mix, Kala hit it out of the park! Don’t miss this interview’s sneak peek behind the curtain at how organizations like C4K...
2021-12-0932 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 7: Formative Assessment in K-8 CS with Shuchi GroverThe goal of this blog and podcast series is to bring CS education research into the K-8 classroom. In this episode, I take a deep dive into two papers: Designing an Assessment for Introductory Programming Concepts in Middle School Computer Science (2020) and Assessing Algorithmic & Computational Thinking in K-12: Lessons from a Middle School Classroom (2017) with Shuchi Grover. She is a learning scientist and computer science and STEM education researcher. Shuchi's research is primarily centered on computational thinking, CS education, and STEM learning in the PK-14 years with a focus on the design of curriculum, assessments, tools, and environments. Find...
2021-11-3034 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 6: Equitable CS teaching strategies with Luther TychonievichThe goal of this blog and podcast series is to bring CS education research into the K-8 classroom. In this episode, I take a deep dive into two papers: Tapestry Workshops: Helping High School Teachers Grow and Diversify Computing and Lessons Learned from Providing Hundreds of Hours of Diversity Training with Luther Tychonievich. He is an Associate Professor of CS at the University of Virginia. I first met Luther when he got involved with the CS Institute in 2019, helping us bring the equitable CS teaching strategies he talks about in this episode to K-8 teachers. Find resources here.
2021-11-1522 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirty: We talk with Eric Bredder about his path to becoming a PhD student & so much more!This week’s podcast guest is:
A. teacher, technology enthusiast, and reader
B. student, problem solver, and creative thinker
C. maker, a developer, and a lifelong learner
D. All of the above
The answer is… D! We’re so excited to introduce you to Eric Bredder, a PhD student at the UVA School of Education. Eric is a passionate educator who loves teaching - and because of that, he’s determined to change the system. From expanding the definition of literacy to giving tips for stubborn 3D printers, we asked Eric about it all...
2021-11-1031 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 5: From researcher to edtech entrepreneur with Tom LauwersThe goal of this blog and podcast series is to bring CS education research into the K-8 classroom. In this episode, I take a deep dive into two papers: Robot Diaries: Broadening Participation in the Computer Science Pipeline through Social Technical Exploration and Designing the Finch: Creating a Robot Aligned to Computer Science Concepts with Tom Lauwers. He is the founder and CEO of Birdbrain Technologies. Find resources here.
2021-11-0130 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 4: Elementary and middle school as a path to future CS with Michelle FriendIn this episode, I take a deep dive into two papers: Middle school girls’ envisioned future in computing and Bricklayer: Elementary Students Learn Math through Programming and Art with Michelle Friend. She is an Assistant Professor of Teacher Education at the University of Nebraska Omaha. I first met Michelle through the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) where she is a founding and current board member. Find resources here.
2021-10-1433 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-nine: We talk with Isabel about her love of books and computer scienceOctober 11 is International Day of the Girl and what better way to celebrate than to share our interview with Isabel Humphreys, a junior in high school, who loves books & computer science. She is helping bridge the gender gap in STEM by mentoring young women to help them see a place for themselves in STEM. Isabel started her journey into computer science in elementary school and a note for all you parents and educators out there, encouragement is key. In high school, she challenges herself to speak up & set a tone for inclusivity in her majority-male classes. Isabel is also...
2021-10-1128 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 3: Supporting Diverse Learners in K-8 Computational Thinking with Jean SalacIn this episode, I take a deep dive into two papers: TIPP&SEE: A Learning Strategy to Guide Students through Use–>Modify Scratch Activities and Supporting Diverse Learners in K-8 Computational Thinking with TIPP&SEE with Jean Salac. Jean is a Computer Science PhD candidate and NSF Graduate Fellow at the University of Chicago's CANON Lab working with Professor Diana Franklin. She has a passion for CS instruction that is accessible and effective for people from under-served communities, making computing accessible for everyone and closing the digital divide. Find resources here.
2021-10-0424 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 2: Continuous CS professional development with Jared O’LearyThe goal of this blog and podcast series is to bring CS education research into the K-8 classroom. In this episode, I take a deep dive into the paper Measuring the effect of continuous professional development on elementary teachers’ self-efficacy to teach coding and computational thinking with one it’s authors Jared O’Leary. Jared is the Director of Education and Research at BootUp. BootUp is a non-profit that provides professional development (PD) to K-8 educators at a district level. They take a continuous PD approach which means their goal is to work with teachers several times throughout the year...
2021-09-2031 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-eight: We talk to Laura Hilliger, writer, educator, technologistic, Open Org ambassador, and 2020 Women in IT Digital Leader of the Year!Are transparency, inclusivity, adaptability, collaboration, and community important to you? If so, you might be ready to work in the open! But what does “open” really mean, and what does it mean to work in the open as a teacher, an administrator, technologist...or really anyone? We talk with Laura Hilliger, an Open Org ambassador, about characteristics of open organizations, and how she’s looking to help them change the world. Find resources here.
2021-09-1538 min
Once Upon a TechEpisode 1: Anatomy of a research paper with Jennie ChiuEpisode 1 in the Bringing CS Education Research into K-8 Classrooms series. This series is all about taking a deeper dive into current K-8 CS education research, so in this first episode Kim Wilkens, EdD student, and her advisor Dr. Jennifer Chiu, Associate Professor in the School of Education at the University of Virginia, take a look at the anatomy of a research paper. Find resources here.
2021-09-0324 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-seven: We talk with Tricia Howell, Recruitment & Retention Coordinator at C4KWe caught up with Tricia Howell, Recruitment & Retention Coordinator at C4K, to learn how they use the power of teens and mentors learning shoulder to shoulder to create a space where community and opportunity can flourish. C4K has been serving the Charlottesville community for 20+ years! Learn more about their amazing programing, and how you can get involved! (We can confirm: It is 👍💯) Find resources here.
2021-06-0236 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-six: Time flies!Summer is almost here! Sarah & Kim catch up on their most recent adventures, and share some big news about what’s coming up next. Plus info about cool new opportunities to connect! Find resources here.
2021-05-2827 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-five: March is Women’s History Month!March is Women’s History Month! We are celebrating with ALL THINGS women: intersectional feminism, International Women’s Day, and tons of resources for diving in and getting your women’s history on. Plus, a love letter to MozFest, our favorite (and very feminist) conference; and Ms. Fitz rants about why women’s history is NOT just for girls. Who run the world? Listen and find out! Find resources here.
2021-03-0821 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-four: Our first episode highlighting books also celebrates Black History MonthWhen we first started the podcast, we always intended to highlight the books that we love and that make us think. You have heard us sprinkling references to them throughout different episodes, but the big moment is finally here: We’re happy to share our first BOOK EPISODE! Insert Ms. Fitz’s happy dance here. Hopefully, this is the first of many. As we acknowledge and celebrate Black History Month, we are highlighting two books: Subtle Acts of Exclusion: How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions by Tiffany Jana and Michael Baran and Black Brother, Black Brother by Jewell Parke...
2021-02-1623 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-three: We talk to mother/daughter dynamic duo, Lisa & Cami PastoreWe are thrilled to have Cami back on the podcast along with her mom, Lisa. Cami is in her final year as a CS major at Virginia Tech. Lisa is an epidemiologist looking to transition into data science. Along the way, she’s become a COVID-19 epidemiologist. Learn how this dynamic mother/daughter duo inspire each other and we’re sure they will inspire you too! Find resources here.
2021-02-0225 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-two: We talk with Jack Dozier, founder of Books for VAWe speak with Jack Dozier, founder of Books for VA, about his dedication to service and bettering his community, and how his passion for literacy and computer science are helping him to make a difference. As usual, this young person will leave you feeling inspired and hopeful about the future - don’t miss this episode! Find resources here.
2021-01-2625 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty-one: We talk with Karen Richardson, Executive Director at VSTEFrom English major to Executive Director at Virginia Society for Technology in Education (VSTE), Karen shares her EdTech journey and her love of making! Learn about how you can and why you should get involved with VSTE. Find resources here.
2021-01-1927 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twenty: 2020 reflections with Sarah and KimThank you dear listeners for helping us through an unpredictable, unprecedented and most challenging year. In this episode, we share reflections from 2020 as well as some of our hopes and dreams for the new year. We look forward to hearing from you in 2021! Find resources here.
2021-01-0129 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Nineteen: We talk with scientist and STEAMKITX founder Merci BestHave you ever seen a need in your community and wished you could do something to make a difference? Merci Best did - so she took her impressive scientific background, her amazing creativity, and her family of brilliant partners and brought that dream to life. This week, we’re hearing from Ms. Best about STEAMKITX - the company she founded to provide creative, engaging, hands-on and personally designed STEAM activities to the kids that need them most. Not impressive enough? She’s building STEAMKITX while earning a graduate degree and studying Alzheimer’s disease - so these STEAM activities are co...
2020-12-1533 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Eighteen: Kimberly Lane Clark shares her passion for CS, diversity & inclusion, blended learning, EdTech and more!Techno girl, TedEd innovator, VSTE keynote speaker, Lego Master Educator, nonprofit board member… whatever you want to call her, Kimberly Lane Clark is awesome. From e-sports to Hour of Code and everything in between, Kim shares all about her amazing range of projects, advocacy, and what drives her in her many roles day to day. You won’t want to miss this episode! Find resources here.
2020-12-1123 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Seventeen: We talk about the who, what, where, when, and why of misinformationMisinformation, disinformation, fake news - whatever you call it, it’s wreaking havoc on our country right now. Sarah and Kim join forces with Seli from FTP to share our best tips for spotting fake and biased news. Find resources here.
2020-11-1730 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Sixteen: We talk with Shannon Montague, Director of Professional Development at VAISHow are teachers learning and growing while pandemic teaching? This week, we spoke with Shannon Montague, Director of Professional Development at the Virginia Association of Independent Schools. Shannon is the master of tech tools and PD, she shared her favorite resources and best advice for becoming a better educator no matter the circumstances. Plus, a bonus question - What do you think the “new normal” for education will look like on the other side of the pandemic? We’d love to hear from you. Find resources here.
2020-11-1030 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Fifteen: We talk to the founders of FTP about media and politicsWith a one of a kind election happening this week, we were excited to talk with Merry and Seli, founders of FTP (F*ck the Press) blog and podcast. Just 19 years old, they have a passion for politics and for breaking down the news to help young people navigate our current political and media systems. In this episode, they offer master class level advice for dealing with misinformation and news fatigue. So, if you need a break from the news or ideas for how to deal with information overload, don't miss this episode! Find resources here.
2020-11-0236 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Fourteen: Kim and Sarah October check-inKim is getting into a groove as an EdD student at the School of Education at UVA. She is working on some next steps with Tech-Girls and caught up with some inspiring women in tech (and hopefully future guests). Sarah is making friends at her new school. She also reflects on banned books weeks - why it exists, what it means and why we should all care about it. Be sure to check out all the resources here.
2020-10-1530 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Thirteen: We talk with Jean Leggett, CEO of One More Story GamesWe had such a fun time learning and laughing with Jean! She is the CEO of an innovative edtech and video game startup with a deep passion for democratizing storytelling in games, plus she’s a standup comedian, international speaker, professional coach, and avid pie maker! She also recently launched a podcast - Games, Grit & Gratitude: Real Talk. Find resources here.
2020-09-2227 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Twelve: We talk with Chic Thompson & Kayla CanarioWe talk with Chic Thompson, founder of WagiLabs and Kayla Canario, K-12 Education Project Manager at Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education about brainstorming, design thinking, playing games, integrating STEM, Kidpreneurs and being the buffalo! Find resource here.
2020-09-0831 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Eleven: We talk to Melissa Phillips about her journey from teacher to data scientistWe first met Melissa Phillips as a middle school math teacher and now she’s a data scientist. Learn how bringing students to a math competition inspired her new journey! We also revisit imposter syndrome and some things we have learned to do to deal with it. Find resources here.
2020-09-0119 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Ten: We catch up on our new adventures this fallSarah and Kim are both on new adventures this fall! Kim is now a full-time Ed.D. student in Curriculum and Instruction at the UVA Curry School of Education. Sarah is in a new position at a new school as the Distance Learning Coordinator or as she refers to it, a Professional Optimist. Find resources here.
2020-08-2523 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Nine: We talk to student organizers about Bio-Med Tech-GirlsWe talk with student organizers about their experience with Bio-Med Tech-Girls. Noelle is a Junior at St. Anne's-Belfield School and a participant for 2 years. She is now the Tech-Girls intern helping out with the program. Sruthi is a 4th year studying biomedical engineering at the University of Virginia and helped design some of the content. Bio-Med Tech-Girls is a collaboration between the UVA Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME), St. Anne's-Belfield School and Charlottesville Women in Tech. This year 23 young women from all over the U.S. joined a week filled with guest speakers, hands-on activities and a design challenge f...
2020-08-1827 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Eight: We talk to Lisel Bruscia about STEAM Discovery AcademyLisel Bruscia is the Executive Director of the STEAM Discovery Academy. She shares with us all about this program that she and her husband founded in 2016. It has evolved from summer and after school programming to including virtual programming and the opening of a new STEAM Incubator space in Charlottesville. Their programs infuse hands-on STEAM activities with play, design thinking and career education in mind. They also offer leadership programs for girls. Find resources here.
2020-08-1131 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Seven: Sarah and Kim catch up on their summer activitiesDespite or maybe because of the pandemic, we are busier than ever this summer - teaching online classes, running summer camps and taking and offering summer professional development. In this episode, we catch you up on all our summer activities and of course, share tons of resources!
2020-07-2124 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Six: We talk to Jean Weller about #edtech and #GoOpenVaJean Weller is the Educational Technology Specialist in the Office of STEM & Innovation for the Virginia Department of Education. She is currently the administrator of #GoOpenVa, an open education resource community and repository for all teachers in Virginia. In this episode, Jean shares how the promises of edtech from the last 30 years finally seem ready to come to fruition and how #GoOpenVa can help teachers and students make it happen in Virginia. Find resources here.
2020-07-1223 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Five: We talk to Saber Khan about ethical CS and creative computingSaber Khan is a progressive CS educator, Education Community Director at the Processing Foundation and co-host of the #ethicalCS twitter chat. Kim first met Saber at #MozFest 2016 where he and a colleague, Jennie Crowley, shared ideas for building an open source ethical CS program. In our interview, we explore what’s been happening around the ideas of ethical CS and learn about the power of creative computing with P5JS. Find resources here.
2020-07-0730 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Four: Stereotypes, failure and the creative side of CS with Camellia PastoreIn this episode, we talk about stereotypes, failure and appreciating the creative side of CS with Camellia Pastore, a rising senior studying computer science at Virginia Tech. We last spoke with Cami during #MorningMeeting. We have worked with Cami through Tech-Girls, Spark Hackathon, Summer Spark and most recently as co-presenters at #MozFest and we are always blown away by this young woman's drive and wisdom. Find resource page here.
2020-06-3027 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Three: We talk to the creator of Stand with BLM websiteIn this episode, we talk with Brehanu Bugg, creator of Stand with BLM, a resource to "to inform and provide resources to Black Lives Matters activists". He also happens to be a former middle school student of ours and now a rising 11th grader. During this episode, he shares with us how he is embracing the intersection of technology and literacy through his love of CS, drama and writing. We also find out how Stand with BLM came into being. Finally, Sarah and Kim share a few Black Lives Matter resources that have been impactful on their anti-racist journey...
2020-06-2330 minOnce Upon a TechOnce Upon a Tech: We're Back!We're back! We so enjoyed our time doing #MorningMeeting, but we are transitioning back to our original idea for the podcast: highlighting people that are working and projects that are happening at the intersection of technology and literacy. We hope you'll join us on our weekly journey! Learn more at www.onceuponatech.com.
2020-06-1602 min
Once Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day FortyIn today’s episode, Day Forty, we wrap up #MorningMeeting. It has been such a pleasure sharing laughter, resources, special guests and daily challenges with you for the past 10 weeks! We will be back in June with a weekly podcast format. Find resources and stats from #MorningMeeting here.
2020-05-2217 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-nineIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-nine, we catch up on sharing our resource backlog including Code with an athlete, Varsity Tutors with Leland Melvin, Celebrities read James and the Giant Peach, How let your children be upset, and a mother’s COVID-19 children’s book parodies go viral. The daily challenge is to check out the Fresh Films video challenge and/or the Emoji Summer Reading challenge. Find resources here.
2020-05-2113 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-eightIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-eight, special guests Zach Minster, 9-12 CS Coordinator and Zach Ashby, senior, both from St. Anne’s-Belfield School join us to share their passion for computer science and to give us a preview of what’s in store for the student-driven Summer SPARK! experience. It’s going to be tremendous! The daily challenge is to set a tech creation goal for this summer. Find resources here.
2020-05-2018 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-sevenIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-seven, special guest Cami Pastore, senior at Virginia Tech, joins us to share about her newfound passion for journaling and her journey into computer science. Along the way she shares some great resources for getting started with journaling and reframing failure. The daily challenge is to brainstorm ideas to solve a real-world problem, inspired by Bio-Med Tech-Girls and Animals on the Go. Find resources here.
2020-05-1917 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-sixIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-six, special guests Zara and Hayley join us to talk about their journey into their mask making and the impact it is having on them and their community. Resources from the episode include Social Distance Assistance podcast, Exploratorium and a read aloud from Michelle and Barack Obama. The daily challenge is to help combat loneliness by supporting our seniors and writing positive words of encouragement to them. Find resources here.
2020-05-1513 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-fiveIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-five, special guest Lucia Hoerr, Backpack Buddies founder, shares about her mission to fill backpacks with school supplies for kids in Charlottesville and beyond. Resources from the episode include youth empowering organizations like Youth Service America, DoSomething and Karma for Cara. The creative challenge is to design your dream backpack! Find resources here.
2020-05-1418 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-FourIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-four, special guest, Corrie Locke-Hardy from The Tiny Activist shares about their mission to find the best books, to spread knowledge & understanding and to make education transformative. Resources from the episode include Gender Spectrum, The Gender Wheel, Teaching Tolerance, The Conscious Kid and The Trevor Project. The creative challenge is to introduce your favorite character to the world through Scratch! Find resources here.
2020-05-1316 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-threeIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-three, our rock theme is inspired by Bennett’s Village call to find a rock that speaks to you, write a message of love or hope on it and share it with someone to brighten their day. Find resources here.
2020-05-1214 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-twoIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-two, our special guest Viv Shields, senior at St. Anne’s-Belfield School and Emily Couric Leadership Finalist, shares her passion for environmental activism. We share lots of resources for budding environmental activists including Young Voices for the Planet, a spotlight on young activists around the world and tips for kids to get started. The creative challenge is a sneak peek at Viv’s Bitsbox tutorial for Girls’ Geek Day! Find resources here.
2020-05-0816 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Thirty-oneIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty-one we explore sound from what it’s like to edit sound for a podcast with Audacity to creating your own soundscape with Scratch in today’s challenge! Also, don’t miss out on the latest from the Princess in Black and your last chance to register for Girls’ Geek Day! Find resources here.
2020-05-0717 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting Day: ThirtyIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Thirty we catch up on sharing our resource backlog! For outdoors: 31 Unorganized Sports, for indoors: #architecturefromhome, for readers: a Harry Potter read aloud with Daniel Radclifff, for finding your own bright spots: the Pleasant Event Calendar and finally the Creepy Pair of Underwear read aloud and creative challenge! Find resources here.
2020-05-0615 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-nineIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-nine we explore the intersection of animals, art and literacy with special guest Joe Vena, education director at Ix Art Park and host of The Daily Creature. And, of course, today’s challenge is to watch an episode of The Daily Creature to inspire your own animal creation. Find resources here.
2020-05-0514 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-eightIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-eight our special guests, Izzy, Spicer and Ms. Holden from St. Anne’s-Belfield School share their experiences doing distance learning, being part of a collaborative Robot Design Project with K-4 and their student-led Quest about exploring food insecurity in Charlottesville. The daily challenge is to make a Robot Zine. Find resources here.
2020-05-0119 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-sevenIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-seven our special guests, Lily Lin & Raeann Giannattasio from UVA Society of Women Engineers (SWE), share their passion for engineering and how they work to inspire girls in K-12 interest in engineering fields through hands-on activities, design challenges, tours, and speakers. The daily challenge comes from the Virtual STEM Guide they created for doing engineering activities at home. Find resources here.
2020-04-3018 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-sixIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-six our special guest, Paige Lindblom, Wildrock Early Childhood Program Director, shares all about the therapeutic nature of play including lots of ideas for family bonding, creative play, and quiet reflection time outside. Resources include the iNaturalist City Challenge and Blue Ridge Builders Lego Challenge. The daily challenge is to create a nature mandala. Find resources here.
2020-04-2917 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-fiveIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-five our special guest, Debbie Mickle, VPM’s Science Matters Director, gives us a snapshot of how they use the power of TV, radio and the web to “inspire everyone to think about science, to value science and to understand its importance to our future.” Learning Plus TV & VA TV Classroom, Hot Shots & Hot Jobs and the new Social Distance Assistance podcast are just a few of the resources highlighted. The daily challenge is to check out the PBS Design Squad Stuff Spinner. Find resources here.
2020-04-2815 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-fourIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-four we are all about books with special guest Kit Ballenger, librarian and book recommender for Wow in the World and Kids Place Live. We also highlight resources from Jason Reynolds and School Library Journal and our challenge is to create a book spine poem or story. Find resources here.
2020-04-2417 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-threeIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-three, our special guests Amira, Bela & Linlee (our sign-off challenge winners) share what it’s like from an elementary student perspective to be living and learning during the pandemic. Today’s challenge is to make a mask and we share resources from Girls Talk Tech, Cville Craft and the CDC to inspire and help you on your way. Find resources here.
2020-04-2313 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-twoIn today’s #MorningMeeting Day Twenty-two we share #PBSKIDSRead with Michelle Obama, Let’s Draw the Gruffalo with Mike Rawls, Code with AR, After the Storm with artist, Kadir Nelson and a creative challenge from Bennett’s Village to draw your favorite place to play!
Find resources here.
2020-04-2213 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day Twenty-oneIn today’s #MorningMeeting #DayTwenty-one, our special guest Kayla Wilson, K-4 Science Teacher at St. Anne’s-Belfield School, shares all about the importance of being outside to play and learn. She also offered a bunch of ideas to spark your imagination and including the challenge of the day - a blindfold challenge! Find resources here.
2020-04-2116 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day TwentyIn today’s #MorningMeeting #DayTwenty, our special guest Janine Dozer, executive director of the Virginia Discovery Museum, shares lots of cool resources they have created and shared online including Discovery Detectives, Teddy Bear in the Window and VDM @ Home challenges!
2020-04-1715 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day NineteenIn today’s #MorningMeeting #DayNineteen, we share learning resources from Amazon Future Engineer program with free CS courses and what it takes to be a Kidpreneur! The creative challenge is the “Unselfie” Idea Challenge from @WagiLabs.
2020-04-1614 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day EighteenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayEighteen we share a read aloud from Cece Bell, The Daily Creature from IX Art Park and community resources from Señora Roth. The creative challenge comes from the James Dyson Foundation.
2020-04-1512 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day SeventeenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DaySeventeen we share resources for learning, Learning Plus TV from My VPM and for fun, scavenger hunts & Saturday Night Seder. The creative challenge is to send a card to a patient who is hospitalized and can't have visitors or really anyone who needs a pick me up right now!
2020-04-1411 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day SixteenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DaySixteen we are joined by special guest Jessa Campbell, a 3rd grade teacher at Greer Elementary, who shares some really cool resources like Sonic Pi, computational thinking and CS unplugged. Her creative challenge is to build the setting from a book or movie out of household items.
2020-04-1014 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day FifteenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayFifteen we are joined by special guests Danielle & Mara from Girls Who Code at UVA. They share about how they got into computer science and their Local Hack Day coming up Saturday, April 11 to encourage others. Today’s creative challenge is to create a binary bookmark.
2020-04-0912 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day FourteenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayFourteen we share #SomeGoodNews, a Robot Petting Zoo video from CodeJoyEdu, a Lauren Tarshis read aloud, Learning Creative Learning experience from MIT Media Lab and a drawing challenge with an interactive generative art tool called Silk.
2020-04-0812 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day ThirteenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayThirteen we share the#CSK8 podcast, Bootup Scratch challenges, read alouds by Jacqueline Woodson, Elizabeth Acevedo and Ms. Fitz and a wastepaper basket collage daily challenge inspired by Austin Kleon!
2020-04-0710 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day TwelveIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayTwelve we share a resource for learning, @WideOpenSchool and a resource for fun, Harry Potter at Home plus a call to write your #COVID19 experience from @laurenTarshis. Today’s challenge is to record a new sign-off for us!
2020-04-0311 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day ElevenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayEleven we are joined by Dr. Jeff Saucerman to share about his Go Viral project where you can simulate and create your own video games about how infections spread. Today’s creative challenge comes from Dav Pilkey.
2020-04-0213 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day TenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayTen we were inspired by @oeshshoes responding to #COVID19 by designing & 3D printing N95 masks and sharing resources so others can too! We also shared author resources, read alouds and a #CSunplugged robot challenge!
2020-04-0111 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day NineIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayNine we share resources to draw with Jarrett Krosoczka, watch #TooCute animals, get #SuperBetter & listen to Kwame Alexander read aloud. Today’s challenge is to #HackYourWindow!
2020-03-3114 minOnce Upon a TechChapter Two: Behind-the-scenes at Girls’ Geek DayIn this episode, we get behind-the-scenes at Girls' Geek Day to find out why girls of all ages want and need this outlet to explore hands-on STEM activities. Sarah highlights a MUST READ book for Women's History Month! Find resources shared during the podcast here.
2020-03-2821 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day EightIn today's #MorningMeeting #DayEight special guest Anna Ballantyne joins us to share 2 challenges: build a house of cards as tall as you can and join #PEwithJoe for a workout! Then get your creative juices flowing with the #ChromeMusicLab.
2020-03-2712 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day SevenIn today's #MorningMeeting #DaySeven we share resources for doing and creating digital breakouts, a finish the comic challenge from @Jarrett_Lerner and the #COVID19 Health Literacy Project started by @poojac99. Today's creative challenge is to finish a comic and share it. We all need a little humor in our lives!
2020-03-2611 minOnce Upon a TechMorningn Meeting: Day SixIn today's #MorningMeeting #DaySix we share some fun, tech creation projects from @mouse_org and a list of unplugged activities to keep you thinking, moving and creating. Today's creative challenge is to pick one of the unplugged activities, take a pic of what you created and share it with us!
2020-03-2512 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day FiveToday's #MorningMeeting includes special guests Señora Roth and Jesus who shared Spanish tongue twisters and challenged our audience to share their favorite tongue twitters. We also challenge you to submit a creation to the It Might be an Apple Festival.
2020-03-2413 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day FourIn today's #MorningMeeting (Day Four) we share lots of resources for reading at home and some cool yoga videos to inspire you to share your favorite yoga pose in our daily challenge!
2020-03-2013 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day ThreeIn today's #MorningMeeting (Day Three) we share resources for lunch doodles with @The_Pigeon, doing daily STEM activities with your family and ways to support local businesses. Today's challenge is to share a doodle.
2020-03-1913 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day TwoIn today's #MorningMeeting (Day Two) we share resources for taking a virtual field trip, doing #CSUnplugged activities and talking to kids about the pandemic. Today's challenge is to design a virtual field trip for us to go on. We can't wait to see where you take us!
2020-03-1810 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting: Day OneJoin us on the #RoundTheWorld_ChainReaction challenge and more at our first Morning Meeting. Resources @ www.onceuponatech.com/week-one.
2020-03-1710 minOnce Upon a TechMorning Meeting IntroDo you need a little pick me up? Are you feeling a little isolated, and looking for a way to connect? Ms. Fitz and Miss-Bit will be sharing ideas, laughter and creative challenges everyday during Morning Meeting. We'll sift through the resources available online and share the best ones with you to make your home learning easier and more fun. Listen along and join us in our daily challenge, if you dare!
2020-03-1603 min