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Jeff Utecht

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“What do I want my process to look like?” this is a question researcher, educator and author Maya Bialik would love to see more teachers think about right now. Our conversation thinks about the art and craft of teaching as it applies to AI and the range of AI tools available to us.

Our guest this week is:

Maya Bialik is a 7th grade science teacher from Boston, and the founder of QuestionWell AI. In the decade since earning her master’s degree in Mind, Brain, & Education from Harvard, Maya has worked directly with educators and jurisdictions around the world on many parts of the education system, from writing curriculum, to evaluating programs, running professional development, facilitating seminars and workshops, designing new standards, conducting research, and publishing books and papers on both primary research and theoretical frameworks.

Learn more about questionwell.ai and connect with Maya.

Also explored in our conversation are ideas on:

Ways to use AI for concept based learning.

Ways to engage AI for social emotional learning.

Ways AI will help us reconceptualize communication and creativity.

Connect with hosts of this show and let them know what mini series you’d love to see them get started on for 2024: info (at) shifting schools (dot com)

Find opportunities to learn with Shifting Schools all year:

https://www.shiftingschools.com/

 

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


Join us as we discuss the implications of AI in educational settings, particularly focusing on how these tools can be integrated to foster inclusion and improve learning experiences with Max, a High School Student.

Key Discussion Points:
AI and Social Interaction: Max highlights how AI tools can prevent social issues like being ‘left on read’ or ‘ghosted’, providing valuable insights in social situations.

AI as a Communication Filter: The discussion explores AI’s role as a reflective tool, helping individuals consider their communication style and content.

AI in the Classroom: Addressing teachers’ anxieties about AI, Max emphasizes the importance of firsthand experience with technology rather than relying solely on second-hand opinions or fears.

Big Idea Shared:
 Max provides a thoughtful, student-centered perspective on the use of AI in education, encouraging educators to listen to students and incorporate their feedback in AI integration.

Want to reach out to Max?

Email us at info@shiftingschools.com

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


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.

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 their in-person experience in Boston.
  • Educational leaders who wish to engage in learning opportunities and sharing of innovative practices aligned with the conference themes of sustainability, innovation, and inclusion.

Special thanks:

 

Reach out to Tricia to let her know you’ll be in Boston for the event OR to share an idea you have for a mini-series!

tricia (at) shiftingschools (dot com)

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


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 enhancing storytelling skills among students. By bringing stories to life through AI-generated visuals, we uncover the potential for deeper engagement and inspiration among young writers.

Moreover, we tackle the critical aspect of AI literacy in K12 education. We discuss how exposure to AI technology through creative applications can demystify AI concepts, making them more approachable and understandable for students. 

Join us for an enriching discussion that merges the boundaries of technology, education, and creativity, and discover how generative AI is not just a tool for creation, but also a gateway to learning and understanding the future of technology.

Ready to learn more with Jeff and Tricia?

Take $25 off the PLC AI Playground with special code ‘SSPOD25’ at checkout:

https://www.shiftingschools.com/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:18 – Introduction

00:01:48 – The All Inclusive AI Bundle

00:05:01 – Text to Image AI for Creative Writing

00:08:43 – AI Images and Copyright Issues

00:11:06 – Leveraging Style and Collaborative Prompt Authoring

00:15:17 – Introduction to Free Tools

00:16:22 – The Innovation Stage

00:17:18 – Free Guide and Feedback

00:17:32 – Appreciation for Free Guides

00:17:44 – Review and Access to AI Guide

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


How do we take a lot of this data that usually is hidden from students and teachers and kept in IT departments and make that part of the learning process of supporting us in our tech world? We ask big questions like that and more in today’s conversation with Incident IQ’s Emily Stapf.

We debunk a lot of misguided ideas about asset management, so ask yourself:

Are you falling for these common myths about asset management in schools? 

Myth #1: Asset management is only relevant for large school districts.

Myth #2: Asset management is only about tracking devices.

Myth #3: Asset management is a burden on staff and adds unnecessary complexity.

In this episode, we will debunk these myths and reveal the truth about the importance of asset management in schools, providing valuable insights and strategies that can revolutionize your school’s technology management practices.

Ready to learn more about our guest?

Emily Stapf works for Incident IQ as a Customer Success Manager. Based in Knoxville, TN, she comes to us from Knox County Schools where she was a computer technician and IT Asset Specialist. She earned a BBA from the University of Toledo in Marketing and Management. In her free time she and her wife are building a small cabin to enjoy with their two pups, Sam and Ollie. She also enjoys traveling, reading, running, puzzles, and crocheting.

www.incideniq.com

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-stapf-46016591/

Key moments to watch out for:00:00:44 – Importance of Asset Management

00:02:09 – Teaching Opportunities

00:04:03 – Data and Reporting

00:07:16 – Budgeting and Planning

00:09:42 – AI and Generative AI

00:11:25 – Challenges and Passwords

00:15:48 – The Process of Learning a New System

00:17:14 – Incident IQ as a Single Pane of Glass

00:19:14 – The Importance of Visibility and Communication

00:20:06 – The Benefits of a System Made Specifically for K-12 Education

00:22:02 – Customer Support and Training

How can you take this episode further?

  • Check out the Events feature on the Incident IQ website to learn how you can easily manage room reservations and event scheduling.

  • Consider implementing asset management practices in your school or district to track and report on devices used by students, such as laptops and iPads.

  • Explore the benefits of using Incident IQ’s reporting capabilities to track device repairs, software issues, and other asset management data.

  • Learn how asset management can be a teaching opportunity for students, parents, and caretakers, by emphasizing the importance of taking care of expensive technology.

  • Discover how Incident IQ’s custom views and reporting features can help you analyze data on device issues by grade level, such as cracked screens or hardware damage.

  • Consider using Incident IQ’s asset management system to budget for future device replacements based on lifespan and anticipated expiration dates.

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


Does this sound familiar? You integrate AI technology in your classroom, hoping to enhance student engagement and learning. However, you find yourself overwhelmed with the vast array of AI tools and unsure of how to effectively integrate them. This ineffective action leaves you feeling frustrated and disappointed, as you see little improvement in student outcomes. But imagine a different approach—one where the power of AI is harnessed to create a balanced and effective learning environment. Together, let’s explore strategies to strike the perfect AI-human balance and achieve the results you desire.

My special guest is Terry Kearnes
https://twitter.com/terrykteacher

Terry Kearnes, an elementary education teacher based in Vietnam, joins us as a guest on the podcast. With his classroom experience, Terry offers valuable insights into effectively integrating AI technology in his 4th grade classroom. Employing a project-based and standards-based approach, Terry’s classroom is designed to foster student engagement and learning. Currently, his students are immersed in a unit called “Independent Me,” where they have the opportunity to delve into various topics, including AI. Terry’s interest in AI was sparked by its potential to enhance teaching and learning experiences. He has successfully incorporated AI tools into his lessons, using them for generating examples, lesson planning, and supporting vocabulary development. Through Terry’s expertise, we will explore the importance of balancing AI integration with human interaction to create a conducive and effective learning environment.

AI levels the playing field for all students, giving them ownership of their learning and empowering them to take charge. – Terry Kearnes

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Enhance classroom learning with AI technology: Discover how AI can revolutionize your teaching methods and create a more engaging and interactive learning environment for students.

  • Elevate student writing skills with AI tools: Unleash the power of AI to provide personalized feedback and guidance, helping students improve their writing skills and boosting their creativity.

  • Personalize learning experiences with generative AI: Explore how generative AI can tailor educational content to individual student needs, promoting a more personalized and effective learning journey.

  • Strike the perfect AI-human balance in the classroom: Learn strategies to effectively integrate AI technology while maintaining the crucial human connection and interaction that fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

  • Embrace the future of education with AI: Gain insights into the latest AI advancements and their potential impact on education, empowering you to stay ahead and embrace the exciting possibilities of AI in the classroom.

Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning
AI tools can significantly boost student engagement by providing personalized and interactive learning experiences. By simplifying complex concepts and adjusting language levels, AI makes learning more accessible for students of varied proficiencies. Terry Kearnes’ use of Poe.com exemplifies how AI can empower students, giving them more control over their learning and leveling the playing field for all.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

  • Check out Poe.com for a website that can help with AI examples and prompts for students.

  • Visit Code Breaker Edu’s website at codebreakeredu.com to explore their Byte software, a great tool for vocabulary and language level adjustments. https://www.codebreakeredu.com/chat/

  • Encourage students to use AI tools like Chat GPT or Byte to rewrite research materials at a level they can comprehend, helping them understand complex concepts.

  • Explore the use of AI in the classroom to level the playing field for all students, including second language learners and multi-language learners.

  • Empower students to take ownership of their learning by allowing them to choose the language level for their materials when using AI tools like Byte.

  • Use AI tools like Byte to prepare for FMP reading tests by adjusting the level of the text to match each student’s reading level.

Check out even more AI resources and free guides to support you at https://www.shiftingschools.com

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


In 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 to engage your students more deeply? Or perhaps you’re searching for ways to foster critical thinking and creativity in your classroom?

Look no further! Every Monday, we bring you conversations with educators, researchers and authors who are on the ground, making incredible shifts in classrooms and schools.

Shifting Schools is more than just a podcast; it’s a community of passionate educators who are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of students.

So, whether you’re in the classroom, leading a school, or supporting our educational systems, tune in to gain new perspectives, share ideas, and be a part of this transformative journey.

And don’t forget to join our community and download over 80 free guides at shiftingschools.com and follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @shiftingschoolspod for even more content and interaction!

Are you ready to be inspired? Are you ready to shift your thinking and your teaching? Then join us every Monday as we ask big questions about shifting schools one conversation at a time. 

Website: https://www.shiftingschools.com

Podcast Site: https://pod.shiftingschools.com

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jutecht/podcasts 

Follow us on Social: 

https://www.instagram.com/shiftingschoolspod

https://www.tiktok.com/@shiftingschoolspod

 

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


Explore 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, perspective-taking, and respectful self-expression, laying down a robust foundation for contextual awareness in political discourse.

Links:
– [CIVIX Official Website](https://civix.ca)
– [CTRL-F Program Overview](https://civix.ca/programs/ctrl-f/)
– [PoliTalks Program Overview](https://civix.ca/programs/politalks/)
– [Center for Research And Evidence on Security Threats](https://www.crestresearch.ac.uk)

Dimitri Pavlounis is the Research Director at CIVIX, a Canadian educational charity dedicated to building the skills and habits of active and informed citizenship among youth through experiential learning opportunities. As part of his work, he helped manage the development and evaluation of CTRL-F, a digital literacy program aimed at helping students navigate our polluted information environment. Prior to joining CIVIX, he completed his PhD in Media Studies at the University of Michigan.

Huge thanks to our amazing sponsor: Mackin!

https://home.mackin.com/

Want to continue your learning with Jeff and Tricia this week?

Their three week AI playground kicks off this Tuesday, November 7th

Learn more: www.shiftingschools.com

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Erin Olsen, an advocate of news literacy and a representative from the News Literacy Project (NLP). Drawing from her rich experience as a middle and high school teacher, Erin shares a poignant anecdote that underscores the indispensable role of news literacy in every classroom. She delves into the importance of educators adopting a systemic and strategic approach to news literacy, emphasizing its relevance in today’s rapidly changing media landscape.

Celebrating over a decade of service, the News Literacy Project has been a beacon for educators navigating the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. Erin discusses the evolving role of AI in the news realm and how it has amplified the need for news literacy skills. 

Journalism, as Erin articulates, is a cornerstone of a well-informed society. With the proliferation of information sources, understanding the role and responsibilities of journalists has never been more crucial. Erin shares insights into the ethos of NLP, which, while being a valuable resource for educators, also emphasizes a community-centric approach. This belief that news literacy is a collective responsibility resonates throughout our conversation.

Whether you’re an educator, student, or just a curious individual, this episode provides invaluable insights into navigating the complex world of news in the era of AI. Join us for an engaging conversation that underscores the importance of discerning fact from fiction in today’s information age.

Connect with our guest:

https://newslit.org/about/team/#staff-erin-olson

Learn all about NLP:

https://newslit.org/

Connect with our show sponsor!

https://home.mackin.com/

 

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools


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 and its impact on communication.
  • Learn effective strategies for teaching screen language skills to students of all ages.
  • Explore practical ways to integrate media literacy into the curriculum and make learning more engaging and relevant.
  • Empower your students to become critical thinkers and responsible consumers of media through media literacy education.

In this episode of the Shifting Schools podcast, you’ll hear an insightful conversation between hosts Jeff Utecht and guest, Sherard Duvall.  Sherard shares his passion for media literacy education and its importance in today’s screen-driven society. Duvall encourages teachers to incorporate media literacy into their classrooms, providing resources and suggestions on how to get started. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the need for individuals to understand and analyze screen language, as it is essential for navigating the digital world. With his expertise and practical advice, Duvall offers valuable insights for educators and parents alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in fostering media literacy skills and empowering students in the age of screens. 

Learn more about our amazing guest:

Born Sherard Duvall in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Columbia, S.C., at 8 years old, “Shekeese” discovered his love for filmmaking, turning a personification tale about a day’s journey of a stamp into his first script. But it was Hip-Hop that first captured his heart after his mom gave him a hand-me-down fisher price record player and a 45″ of LL Cool J’s Go Cut Creator Go – lying down in the bathroom near the space heater with headphones on, he became a child of hip-hop culture.

At 15, he began his hip-hop career, first djing basement and backyard parties for high school friends and sometimes during lunch, then after purchasing his first pair of Technics 1200s at 16, Shekeese Tha Beast was born. Exploding on the scene in 1996, his senior year of high school, at 17 he began djing first on Columbia’s WWDM then Hot 103.9FM, going on to DJ on several radio stations along the east coast from New York to Florida. He released several mixtapes and made his first appearance on BET with Dj Shakim at SC State’s Homecoming and MTV the same year on the infamous “Spring Break” filmed in Myrtle Beach.

In 1998, in his freshman year at the University of South Carolina he met Dj Kingpin and the two started the NonStop Hip-Hop 2-hour radio show on WUSC 90.5FM. The radio show evolved into “NonStop HipHop Live!” where Shekeese and Kingpin would hold weekly events showcasing hip-hop culture. It was during this time that Shekeese hooked up with SC Hip-Hop juggernaut Fat Rat Da Czar, becoming his manager and DJ. Eventually Czar, along with his longtime business partner LJ Chisholm, became part of NonStop Hip-Hop Live, the crew that established the nonprofit Love Peace and Hip-Hop in 2013. Love Peace and Hip-Hop’s World Famous Hip-Hop Family Day became one of the largest festivals in South Carolina music history, bringing over 20,000 attendees annually to Columbia’s Main Street.

It was in 1998 as a African-American History minor and Media Arts Film major that Shekeese first started exploring film as a creative expression. After graduation in 2001, he took a job first as Production Assistant at Columbia’s Mad Monkey, then in 2004 as an editor at Genesis Studios in Cayce, South Carolina. At Genesis he began to grow his filmmaking career; becoming an accomplished editor, director, and producer for commercial and documentary projects for VH1, Discovery Channel, ESPN,the American Cancer Society and many more. In 2009, Shekeese transitioned to filmmaking full time, adding Media Literacy and Film Education to his skillset. In 2013, he became the Director of Media Education at the Nickelodeon Theatre in Columbia, SC. 

During this time Shekeese began to become more involved with community work, serving on boards for the Columbia Economic Development Corporation, The RAM Education Foundation and The City of Columbia Board of Zoning Appeals. He has served on advisory committees for SCETV, Historic Columbia, The North Columbia Business Association, and the Justice 360 Death Penalty Resource. Shekeese is also a 2022 SC Arts Commission Fellow, a 2023 Aspen Global Leadership Fellow, a 2021 Liberty Fellow, a 2016 Riley Fellow, a 2016 Leo Twiggs Arts Leadership Scholar, 2015 South Carolina 40 Under 40 and a 2014-2015 American Graduate Champion.

While continuing to satisfy his creative passion with art, music, film, and education projects, in 2012 he established OTR Films with guidance from his longtime partner turned entrepreneur FatRat Da Czar. In 2017, he launched OTR Media Group, a nonfiction entertainment, media literacy, and media strategy house that works with businesses and organizations that want to experiment with new ways of seeing and sharing the human experience through the moving image. 

Today, Sherard “Shekeese” Duvall is a film and messaging professional who resides in Columbia, S.C. He’s focused on nonfiction storytelling, media literacy education, media strategy, and is an ambassador of South Carolina Hip-Hop culture. He is currently in development of his documentary shorts series Blaktastik: Celebrating South Carolina’s Creative Black Culture.

Connect with him:

www.otrmg.com // FB – OTR Media Group // Twitter/IG: @otrmediagrp // @ShekeeseSMD

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Special thanks to our amazing sponsor: Mackin!

 

Check out this episode of Shifting Our Schools