Better Teaching: Only Stuff That Works

In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti converses with Rod Naquin, a seasoned educator and instructional coach. They discuss the impact of dialogue on teaching, teacher collaboration, student collaboration, and the whole world. Their conversation also goes into psychological and philosophical underpinnings, the significance of understanding teachers' individual contexts, and effective coaching methods.

02:49 The Role of Experiences in Educational Leadership
04:14 Teacher Collaborative Discourse
04:37 Barriers to Effective Collaboration
14:11 Psychology of Teacher Collaboration
31:50 Communication Dynamics in Educational Settings
30:51 Reflecting on Collaborative Practices

In this episode, Gene Tavernetti talks with Dr. Jana Lee, an expert in data-driven educational practices and inclusive teaching. The discussion delves into effective data utilization, the importance of microdata, and best practices for both general and special education. Learn how to enhance professional learning communities (PLCs) and the significance of responsive teaching.

02:05 Data-Driven Decisions
04:43 Understanding Microdata
05:31 Effective Teaching Strategies
06:22 Challenges in Data Collection
30:32 Special Education Insights
47:35 Coaching and Professional Growth

In this episode, host Gene Tavernetti speaks with Dr. Lindsey Cormack, an Associate Professor of Political Science at Stevens Institute of Technology and author of 'How to Raise a Citizen: Why It's Up to You to Do It.' They discuss the importance of teaching civics and politics to children, the challenges teachers face in the current political climate, and actionable strategies for parents to engage their children in understanding politics and government. The conversation also touches on historical context, educational strategies, and the role of media in shaping our political understanding.

01:47 Civics Education: Then and Now
04:26 Defining Civics and its Broader Implications
04:29 The Current State of Civics Knowledge
06:07 Lindsey’s Research and Findings
19:37 Teaching Civics at Home vs. School
34:04 Key Takeaways

In this episode, Gene interviews Blake Harvard, Blake discussed his new book: Do I Have Your Attention: Understanding Memory Constraints and Maximizing Learning and what he teaches his students about learning.

01:36 Festival of Education and Presentation Highlights

06:25 Understanding Memory Constraints

07:45 Strategies for Effective Teaching

09:46 Application of Cognitive Psychology in the Classroom

13:57 High Expectations and Student Motivation

17:57 Practical Techniques: Brain Book Buddy Model

27:49 Pre-Service Teacher Advice

In the premiere episode of a new segment titled 'Thinking Out Loud,' Zach Groshell  and Gene Tavernetti engage in a candid discussion about a recent episode of Progressively Incorrect on Direct Instruction.

Thinking Out Loud' will be featured on 'Better Teaching: Only Stuff that Works' and 'Progressively Incorrect' platforms.

The conversation covers Dr. Groshell's latest podcast episodes, feedback from listeners, and the differences and similarities between Engelmann's DI and explicit instruction. They also delve into the importance of fast-paced, precise teaching and effective coaching methods.

02:33 Explaining Direct Instruction
04:41 Comparing DI and Regular Episodes
06:18 Teaching Lesson Demonstration
09:04 Precision of Language in DI
10:58 Seeking Out Coaching
28:04 Developing DI Workshops

In this episode, Gene Tavernetti interviews Amy Pento, an instructional consultant and former Spanish teacher. Amy shares her experiences and strategies as an instructional specialist and discusses the importance of evidence-based teaching methods, professional relationships, and the challenges and successes in implementing instructional changes in schools.

02:23 Becoming an Instructional Specialist

04:54 Challenges and Strategies in Instructional Leadership

28:44 The Impact of Instructional Changes

32:48 Amy's Proud Moments

Get in touch with Amy:
X: @amypento

In this episode, Gene Tavernetti welcomes Paul Dietrich to the podcast. They discuss Paul's journey from being a teacher to becoming an academic coach at Fairview Middle School, his commitment to educational technology, and the importance of building trust and relationships in coaching. Paul shares insights on working with both new and veteran teachers, navigating the complexities of coaching, and the significance of being a supportive partner rather than an evaluator.

00:55 Paul’s Background

02:20 First Impressions

03:50 Views on Instruction

13:52 Coaching Experience

08:14 Challenges in Coaching

09:17 Veteran vs. Novice Teachers

Social Media Links for Paul:

Facebook: Paul Dietrich

Twitter: @‌Dietrichucation

LinkedIn: dietrichucation

In this episode, Gene Tavernetti interviews education journalist and author Holly Korbey. They discuss Holly's journey from theater to journalism, her passion for the science of learning and math, and her insights on education across various regions. The conversation covers the consistency of challenges in teaching, the impact of social media on schools, and the importance of simplifying education to focus on core skills like reading and math. Holly also shares her thoughts on PR in education and the role of instructional coaches.

01:27 Holly's Journey to Education Journalism
03:41 Challenges and Consistencies in Education
08:47 PR and Social Media in Schools
31:51 The Role of Instructional Coaches
40:21 Parallels Between Academics and After School Activities

Episode Links:
Twitter: @‌HKorbey

The Bell Ringer Substack

In this episode, Gene Tavernetti interviews Dr. Zach Groshell about his upcoming book and dives into effective teaching strategies. The discussion covers a variety of topics, including the importance of clear and concise explanations, cognitive load theory, the role of learning objectives, and the use of stories and humor in the classroom. They also address common misconceptions about explicit instruction and the practicalities of teaching in a focused and effective manner.

01:05 The Need for Positive Teaching Messages

02:37 The Importance of Clear Explanations

05:07 Cognitive Load Theory and Clarity

06:37 Practicing and Rehearsing Explanations

19:26 Learning Objectives and Explicit Instruction

15:58 The Role of Classroom Environment in Learning

16:53 Explaining with Undivided Attention

26:26 Using Stories and Humor in Teaching

38:26 The I Do, We Do, You Do Framework

In this episode, Gene Tavernetti interviews educator and consultant Dominic Helmstetter. Dominic shares his experiences in teaching, administration, and consulting, emphasizing practical strategies, the importance of student relationships, and innovative educational practices. 

00:00 Introduction

01:13 Dominic’s Teaching Journey

04:19 Experience as an Administrator

02:43 The Importance of Reflection and Growth

21:12 EduProtocols and Innovative Strategies

45:21 Conclusion