Better Learning Podcast

Better Learning Podcast

By Kay-TwelveEducation
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Better Learning Podcast episodes

  • Rethinking Education From Authoritarianism to Empathy

    Have you ever pondered the essence of education?

    In a world filled with standardized curricula and rigid structures, where does true learning thrive? Gary Stager, a seasoned teacher educator, voices his frustration with the prevailing state of education. His insights, shared in a recent conversation with Kevin Stoller, delve deep into the challenges and opportunities within our educational systems.

    Stager's narrative is one of disillusionment with the status quo. He laments the lack of appetite for change, noting a troubling shift towards authoritarianism and fundamentalism in schools. The upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated these trends, pushing education further down a path of conformity.

    At its core, education should prioritize the holistic development of students. It's not merely about preparing them for college or standardized tests but about fostering empathy, social capital, and critical thinking skills.

    How can we, as educators, parents, and advocates, come together to foster a more empathetic and inclusive approach to learning?

    Takeaways

    • The current state of education is frustrating, with a lack of appetite for change and a shift towards authoritarianism and fundamentalism.

    • The science of reading debate oversimplifies the complex process of learning to read and fails to consider individual differences and cultural contexts.

    • There is a need for diverse models of education that allow students to fall in love with learning and pursue their passions.

    • Promoting and sharing stories of successful educational models is crucial in challenging the status quo and inspiring change. Higher education is valuable not only for personal growth but also as a statistical predictor of longevity.

    • The focus on college admissions has created an artificial crisis and narrowed the paths for students.

    • Education should prioritize creating memorable experiences and fostering social capital.

    • The current education system needs to shift its focus away from college and towards the holistic development of students.

    • True conversations about education and reevaluating goals are essential for meaningful change.

    In addition to being a popular keynote speaker at some of the world's most prestigious education conferences, Gary Stager is a journalist, teacher educator, consultant, professor, software developer, publisher, and school administrator.

    An elementary teacher by training, he has taught students from preschool through doctoral studies. In 1990, Dr. Stager led professional development in the world's first laptop schools and played a major role in the early days of online education. Gary is the founder of the Constructing Modern Knowledge summer institute for educators.

    Learn more about Gary Stager:

    Website: http://professorgarystager.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garystager/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/garystager

    Constructing Modern Knowledge: https://constructingmodernknowledge.com/

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 168 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    For more information on our partners:

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    1 hr 2 min
  • Governor Doug Ducey: Pioneering Education Reform in Arizona

    Governor Doug Ducey is known as one of America's most successful entrepreneurs and most successful governors.

    In this episode, Governor Doug Ducey provides insights into the education landscape in Arizona, drawing from his background in business and politics. He emphasizes the importance of innovation and choice in the education system and discusses success stories such as charter schools and programs like Teach for America.

    The conversation delves into various aspects of education, including competition, school choice, fundamental education, innovation, and the role of community colleges. Governor Ducey also touches on the future of free enterprise and economic freedom.

    Takeaways

    1. Innovation and choice are crucial in the education system.
    2. Success stories like charter schools and Teach for America demonstrate the potential for positive change.
    3. The education establishment often prioritizes protecting its interests over student outcomes.
    4. Arizona's culture allows for greater innovation and change in education.
    5. Competition can lead to improvement in schools.
    6. School choice empowers parents and can enhance both charter and district K-12 schools.
    7. Concerns about school choice include the loss of neighborhood community and political alignment.
    8. Fundamental education should prioritize reading, writing, and arithmetic.
    9. Innovation, such as educational savings accounts and online platforms, can transform learning.
    10. Community colleges play a crucial role in providing affordable education and skills training.
    11. Economic freedom and entrepreneurship are essential for individual and national success.

    Governor Ducey was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, where he began his career in business with Procter & Gamble, and later served as CEO of Cold Stone Creamery. There, Ducey led the expansion of the ice cream franchise from one single store into a business with 1,400 locations in the United States and 10 other countries.

    Elected Arizona's 23rd Governor in 2014 and reelected by an even wider margin in 2018, Ducey successfully championed historic policy initiatives, enacting the lowest flat income tax rate in the nation, introducing a first-in-nation law that requires students to pass a Civics test before graduating from high school, knocking-down licensing requirements that stood as a barrier to work, and eliminating or improving over 3,365 regulations resulting in the equivalent of a $183 million dollar tax cut.

    Ducey may be best known for pioneering Education Scholarship Accounts and universal school choice – providing every family with the opportunity to have their student attend whatever school is best for them. As the Hill reported, Arizona's program "has become the standard that school choice advocates argue other states need to emulate."

    Legendary Conservative Columnist George Will described Ducey as the "most successful 21st century governor."

    Under Governor Ducey's leadership, Arizona also experienced unparalleled growth with the state's economy having boomed while the size of government has shrunk. When Ducey left office, Arizona's government employed 5,000 less state workers than when he took office, and the state's economy added over 500,000 private sector jobs.

    Learn more about Doug Ducey:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougducey/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/DougDucey

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dougducey/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dougducey/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dougducey

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 167 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    47 min
  • AI Meets Apple Vision Pro

    In this conversation, Micah Miner discusses the need for change in education and the importance of relevant curriculum. He shares stories from his teaching experience and highlights the impact of AI on education.

    The introduction of Apple's Vision Pro is discussed, along with its potential impact on education. The conversation also touches on the importance of social interaction in AR/VR education and the need for affordable and inclusive access to these technologies.

    In this conversation, Micah Miner discusses the importance of reinventing education and connecting virtual and physical spaces. He also highlights the potential of AI and the need for safeguards to support and educate children. The conversation concludes with a focus on creating opportunities for every child and the active engagement of listeners in the podcast community.

    Takeaways

    1. Education needs to be relevant and inclusive, with curriculum that reflects the diversity of students' experiences.

    2. AI has the potential to revolutionize education, but it requires thoughtful implementation and consideration of policies and procedures.

    3. AR/VR technologies like Apple's Vision Pro can enhance learning experiences and provide new opportunities for students.

    4. Social interaction and collaboration are important aspects of AR/VR education that need to be considered.

    5. Affordable and inclusive access to AR/VR technologies is crucial to ensure all students can benefit from these tools.

    Micah Miner serves as the District Administrator for Instructional Technology & Social Studies at Maywood, Melrose Park, Broadview School District 89 near Chicago. He is a contributing writer for the American Consortium for Equity in Education and an author with Times 10 Publications.

    With expertise spanning instructional technology, social studies, and equity in education, Micah is dedicated to enhancing teaching and learning experiences at the intersection of technology and social studies. His career includes roles as a classroom teacher, department chair, instructional coach, and professor.

    Micah writes about emerging technologies like AI and the Metaverse, focusing on thoughtful integration that maximizes learning potential while prioritizing student privacy and equity. His insights reflect a deep commitment to expanding access and opportunity through technology.

    Micah Miner Website: https://micahminer.com/

    Micah Miner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micah-j-miner/

    Micah Miner Twitter: https://twitter.com/minerclass

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 166 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    34 min
  • The Challenges and Rewards of Educational Leadership

    In this episode, Kevin Stoller interviews Tom Murray, the Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools. They discuss Tom's journey in education, the challenges and rewards of educational leadership, and the importance of building trust and communication with the community. They also explore the power of relationships in education and the need to share the positive stories happening in schools. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for strong leadership and collaboration to create better learning experiences for students.

    Takeaways

    1. Educators should share their stories and be proud of the work they do.

    2. Building trust and communication with the community is essential for the success of schools.

    3. Public perception of education should be based on the positive stories and impact happening in schools.

    4. Strong relationships are the foundation of effective education.

    After serving at the elementary and secondary levels as both a teacher and a principal, and then at the district level, Tom now serves as the Director of Innovation for Future Ready SchoolsR, a project of All4Ed, located in Washington, D.C. He has testified before the United States Congress and has previously worked alongside that body and the US Senate, the White House, the US Department of Education and state departments of education, and school districts throughout the country to implement student-centered learning. Murray serves as a regular conference keynote, was named one of "20 to Watch" by NSBA, the "National/Global EdTech Leader of the Year" in 2018, the "Education Thought Leader of the Year" in 2017, and the "Education Policy Person of the Year" by the Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2015. His best-selling book, Learning Transformed, was released in 2017 with ASCD, and his most recent best-seller, Personal & Authentic was released in 2019. Connect with him at thomascmurray.com or @thomascmurray.

    Learn more about Tom Murray:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomascmurray/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/thomascmurray

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomascmurrayedu

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThomasCMurrayEDU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thomascmurray

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 165 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    36 min
  • Building Better Schools That Shape the Future of Learning
    Matt Hansen, an architect based in Pittsburgh, discusses the challenges and opportunities in the education sector in Western Pennsylvania. He shares his background in architecture and how he transitioned to focusing on educational design. Matt highlights the funding shortage and the need for school renovations and replacements in the region. He also discusses the importance of incorporating innovative design concepts, such as small learning communities and outdoor spaces, into school projects. Matt emphasizes the value of collaboration between architects and educators to create effective learning environments. The conversation covers the origins of the podcast and the motivation behind it. It also explores the involvement of the podcast in the A4LE community and the unique position it holds. The conversation concludes with closing remarks and a commitment to driving change in education. Takeaways
    • The education sector in Western Pennsylvania faces challenges due to funding shortages and outdated school facilities.
    • Innovative design concepts, such as small learning communities and outdoor spaces, can enhance the learning experience.
    • Collaboration between architects and educators is crucial to create effective and inspiring learning environments.
    • Furniture plays a significant role in educational spaces and should be carefully considered to support learning and engagement. The podcast started as a way to continue conversations with educators and share practical experiences.
    • The podcast became involved with A4LE as a way to support the community and have meaningful conversations.
    • The podcast's unique position allows for discussions with architects and interior designers who deeply care about education.

    Matt Hansen joined IKM in 2005 and has spearheaded the firm's efforts in growing its K-12 education portfolio. He has successfully managed over $230 million of project cost in the market sector. As the Educational Practice Leader, Mr. Hansen is responsible for leading and facilitating IKM's planning and visioning process and helping clients research and identify their facility needs. Matt is a gifted designer who employs an energetic, collaborative approach that places research-driven concepts at the forefront of his work.

    Learn more about Matt Hansen:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hansen-a493968b/

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 164 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    32 min
  • Design for the Extreme Benefits of the Mean

    In this conversation, Kevin Stoller interviews David O'Coimin, the founder of NookPod. They discuss the importance of student-centered learning and the need for flexible learning environments. David shares the inspiration behind NookPod and how it provides a private and comfortable space for individuals to work or learn. They also talk about the challenges of taking the leap to start a new venture and the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the versatility and unexpected uses of NookPod, as well as the impact of change makers in education.

    Takeaways

    1. Student-centered learning is crucial for creating effective learning environments.

    2. Flexible and private spaces, like NookPod, can enhance productivity and focus.

    3. Taking calculated risks and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can lead to personal and professional growth.

    4. Change makers play a vital role in transforming education and improving learning outcomes.

    Based between Amsterdam and Bristol, David O'Coimin is a product and experience designer, inclusivity consultant, digital nomad and social-minded founder with a passion for people, places and planet.

    Operating under the mantra of 'Design For The Extreme Benefits The Mean' and guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, David helps organisations to realise the full potential of their space and the people who use them, with a particular focus on micro-spaces and neuroinclusivity.

    Learn more about David O'Coimin:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidocoimin/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ddfoc

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 163 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    26 min
  • Helping Small Rural Schools Give Students Premium Opportunities

    Small rural schools often face challenges in providing diverse career training opportunities for their students. Limited resources and infrastructure can hinder students from gaining exposure to high-demand, high-wage positions upon graduation.

    Recognizing the need for a transformative solution, McCamey ISD, in collaboration with three other districts, took a bold step to kick off the Permian Basin Innovation Zone (PBIZ). This initiative stems from the belief that every student, regardless of their school's size or location, should have access to quality career training.

    PBIZ is not just an ordinary program; it's a Texas Education Agency (TEA) backed initiative that goes beyond traditional boundaries. The program is designed to facilitate collaboration among small rural schools, allowing them to pool resources, share students, and even exchange staff. This collaborative effort aims to create a dynamic learning environment that mirrors the real-world demands of the workforce.

    PBIZ breaks down the barriers that often limit rural students. By collaborating with neighboring districts, schools can offer a broader range of trades and vocational programs. This enables students to explore and graduate with valuable skills that align with high-demand and high-wage positions in the job market.

    PBIZ isn't just about providing technical skills; it's a holistic approach to education that considers the unique needs of rural communities. By fostering collaboration, PBIZ ensures that students not only receive quality training but also gain a broader perspective on the career opportunities available to them.

    In this episode, learn about the transformative impact of PBIZ on rural education, gain insights into Mr. Valencia's journey and his efforts to enhance learning opportunities, and explore Elizabeth Hegi's expertise in education technology and creating innovative learning environments.

    Mr. Michael Valencia is the Superintendent of McCamey Independent School District. He has served in various positions throughout his 22 year educational career. Michael began his career with Pecos Barstow Toyah ISD as a teacher and coach. He is married to his wife Ashley, and together, they share six wonderful children.

    Elizabeth Hegi is with Kay-Twelve and has over 17 years experience working with school districts in Texas in the Education Technology, School Photography and Yearbook industries. Most recently she partnered with school districts to provide technology solutions to their campuses. She is excited to continue partnering with schools to assist them in creating more unique, collaborative, and effective learning spaces. She has lived and worked in the Houston area most of her life, and now resides in New Braunfels with her husband and three children.

    Learn more about Michael Valencia:

    McCamey ISD Website: https://www.mcisd.esc18.net/

    Michael's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-valencia-987b448b/

    Learn more about Elizabeth Hegi:

    Kay-Twelve's Website: https://www.kay-twelve.com/

    Elizabeth's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth3302/

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 162 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    29 min
  • The Period-Positive Approach in Education

    Welcome to another episode of Better Learning! In the episode, we have a remarkable guest who is changing the game for people with periods. Meet Claire Coder, a Forbes 30 Under 30 awardee, a Thiel Fellow, and the dynamic Founder and CEO of Aunt Flow. Claire's journey is nothing short of inspiring.

    At just 26 years old, Claire is not only a Thiel Fellow but a trailblazer in the field of menstrual equity. With Aunt Flow, she's on a mission to make the world better for people with periods. Under Claire's leadership, Aunt Flow has revolutionized public bathrooms by stocking them with freely accessible tampons and pads. The company has introduced patented dispensers in over 30,000 bathrooms, raising an impressive $17 million+ in venture capital.

    Collaborating closely with education leaders and architects, Claire ensures that Aunt Flow's mission to provide freely accessible period products transcends boundaries. It's noteworthy that the push for Aunt Flow products in schools doesn't come solely from adults; rather, it's the students themselves who recognize the importance of menstrual equity in their learning environments. In this episode, discover how any school can join the movement and bring Aunt Flow's impactful initiatives to their campus, fostering an environment where every student can focus on their education without the worry of period supplies.

    Learn more about Aunt Flow and Claire Coder:

    Aunt Flow Website: https://goauntflow.com/

    Claire's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairecoder/

    Claire's Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/clairecoderofficial/

    Claire's Twitter Profile: https://twitter.com/clairecoder

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 161 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    37 min
  • The Power of Storytelling

    In this episode of The Better Learning Podcast, we go on an exploration of the profound impact of storytelling, featuring Matthew Dicks as our guest. Since 2011, Matthew has graced stages worldwide with his captivating narratives, winning hearts and accolades along the way.

    Dive into the essence of what makes a story truly compelling. Matthew unpacks the key elements that elevate a narrative, emphasizing the importance of never assuming you have someone's attention—especially crucial for educators navigating classrooms filled with diverse learning styles. He also underscores the significance of infusing entertainment into storytelling, particularly in educational settings. Discover why the ability to entertain holds the key to making a lasting impact, whether you're addressing a room full of children or adults.

    Drawing from his extensive experience, Matthew sheds light on the pitfalls of assuming attention and advocates for active engagement strategies. Learn how this principle applies not only in storytelling but also in teaching, public speaking, and any scenario where capturing attention is paramount. Matthew's expertise extends beyond the stage as he delves into teaching the art of captivation. Explore the techniques he employs to empower individuals—from educators to corporate professionals—to refine their storytelling skills and create lasting impressions.

    Gain valuable insights into the art of crafting compelling narratives that resonate, entertain, and leave a lasting impact—whether you're on stage, in the classroom, or addressing a diverse audience.

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 160 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    43 min
  • Designing a Robotics and Gaming School

    Kevin speaks with Vincent Spencer and Ryan Olson from Gensler - a global architecture firm - about designing unique spaces for students. Specifically, Vincent and Ryan are currently working on the Foust Robotics and Gaming Magnet School in Guilford County, North Carolina. They discuss the challenges of designing a space for such a unique school concept and offer a glimpse into how curricular considerations informed the design.

    Vincent J. Spencer is a Designer Manager and Associate in the Gensler Charlotte office. He has over 17 years of experience in educational and investment commercial design. His guiding philosophy: better schools demonstrate communities care about education. Vincent is involved in all aspects of the design and construction process, from advance planning, design, and production of contract documents to quality reviews to ensure the projects meet environmental, zoning and regulatory standards. He is driven to make a difference in the lives of students, teachers, and their families.

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-j-spencer/

    Ryan Olson is a Technical Designer in the Gensler Charlotte office with more than 15 years of experience as a design lead on education, workplace, mixed-use, and building repositioning projects. With expertise in both architecture and interior design, he is able to integrate the two fields for an "inside-out" design approach. Ryan is well-versed in all aspects of the design process, and specializes in conceptual design and design experience. He is dedicated to crafting concepts that guide the design process and resonate through all phases of a project's lifecycle.

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-olson-24608aa/

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Who made this episode possible?

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    31 min

About Better Learning Podcast

From the publisher's feed

The Better Learning Podcast combines education and entertainment in a fresh, engaging format where guests share their favorite school-related movies. Host Kevin Stoller leads dynamic conversations, exploring memorable scenes, iconic characters, and timeless lessons through award-style categories like "The John Keating Award" for standout teachers and "Realistic or Ridiculous?" to dissect school life portrayals.

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