A Slice with 'Dice

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice dives into the transformative power of intrinsic motivation in education, exploring how fostering a love of learning can lead to deeper engagement, creativity, and long-term success. Drawing on insights from Larry Ferlazzo's The Student Motivation Handbook, we discuss the conditions teachers can create to inspire students from within, including autonomy, competence, relatedness, and relevance. We also tackle the delicate balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, offering practical strategies to make learning a rewarding experience in itself. Tune in for thoughtful reflections and actionable ideas to inspire the next generation of learners.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Some memes are just jokes. Others are a wake-up call. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the viral Friggin’ Packet Yo meme and what it reveals about student frustration with passive learning. This episode dives into why the meme has stood the test of time, how memes serve as a raw and unfiltered form of student feedback, and what school leaders can learn from them. Instead of dismissing student frustration, how can schools create classrooms where engagement is the norm—not the exception?

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Struggle isn’t a sign you’re not cut out for STEM—it’s proof that you’re on the right path. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how the way students perceive failure can shape their success in advanced STEM courses. Drawing on research from Dr. Xiaodong Lin-Siegler, this episode unpacks why learning about scientists’ struggles improves student motivation, how high-achievers define failure, and why the best problem-solvers aren’t those who never make mistakes, but those who know what to do next.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

TikTok has found a new conspiracy theory—this time, it’s about gifted education. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the viral trend that claims GATE programs were secret government experiments, why these myths resonate with former gifted students, and what they get wrong about gifted education. More than just a wild internet theory, this conversation dives into the real misconceptions about giftedness and why it’s important to separate fact from fiction.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the concept of ganbatte, a Japanese philosophy of resilience and steady effort, as presented in Albert Liebermann’s book Ganbatte! The Japanese Art of Always Moving Forward. Applying these principles to the world of school leadership, we discuss how small, consistent actions, a focus on process over perfection, and a collective approach can help leaders navigate challenges with patience and purpose. Tune in to discover how ganbatte can inspire a culture of perseverance and hope in schools, fostering meaningful progress for both leaders and their communities.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how Jeff Bezos' "Two-Pizza Rule," a principle that transformed Amazon's approach to teamwork, can be applied to educational leadership. By keeping teams small, focused, and empowered, school leaders can foster innovation, boost morale, and streamline decision-making. Discover how this simple yet powerful concept can reshape how schools operate, from creating agile problem-solving groups to empowering teachers as entrepreneurs. Tune in to learn how two pizzas might just hold the secret to revolutionizing your school leadership approach.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Burritos, black beans, and biology class—who knew they’d have so much in common? ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how “Chipotlefication” is changing the way students learn and choose their educational paths during National School Choice Week. Discover how customizable curriculums, guided by passionate educators, empower students to craft their future—one class at a time.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Think you control your college admissions fate? Think again. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the arbitrary factors that shape how applications are reviewed, from the timing of when your file is read to the mood of the admissions officer. Discover why randomness plays a bigger role than you might expect and how to focus on the parts of your application you can control. Alderdice offers insights into the unpredictable world of admissions and encourages students to see beyond the decisions and embrace the bigger picture.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores why gifted students often find it difficult to ask for help, even when they’re struggling. We delve into the cultural and psychological factors that contribute to this reluctance, including perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to maintain a self-sufficient image. We’ll also discuss how educators and parents can foster an environment where gifted students feel comfortable seeking the support they need. If you’ve ever wondered why some of the brightest students hesitate to reach out, this episode sheds light on the silent struggles they face and offers practical solutions for creating a more supportive learning experience.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

What if your college major could prepare you for a career as a social media influencer? ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the emergence of degrees tailored to the creator economy, starting with Arkansas Tech University’s new program in Digital Content Creation. From hands-on training in video production to lessons in digital ethics, these degrees are reshaping how higher education approaches the growing $250 billion influencer industry. Corey also dives into similar programs worldwide, analyzing what they mean for students, educators, and the future of work in the digital age.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.