Getting Smart Podcast

In this episode of "Catching Up!", Mason and Nate dive into a vibrant discussion on the evolving landscape of education, focusing on how vibe coding, curiosity, and judgment are poised to redefine learning priorities. They explore the shifting dynamics of computer science education in the age of AI and highlight the importance of fostering experience-based learning opportunities across diverse educational geographies. From the intriguing concept of "Italian brain rot" to the challenges of expanding CTE programs in rural areas, this episode covers an array of thought-provoking topics. The hosts also discuss the role of curation in both digital and physical spaces, emphasizing its growing significance in the modern world. Tune in to discover insights and strategies for preparing students for a future where curiosity and creativity drive learning and innovation.

Join Mason and Nate as they catch up on these exciting developments and share their vision for fostering collaborative and innovative learning environments.

Editor's note: In this episode, Mason wrongly refers to "the AI shark with sneakers" as Bombaleo Bambala... it is actually Tralalero Tralala. Appologies to Tralalero.

• (00:00) Introduction to Vibe Coding and Curiosity
• (01:53) Exploring AI and Vibe Coding
• (07:13) AI's Impact on Research and Accuracy
• (10:34) The Rise of Curation in Digital and Physical Spaces
• (17:59) Deep Dive: Humans as Luxury Goods in the Age of AI
• (29:34) Tracking Fitness and Reflection Practices
• (33:13) AI and Learning Documentation
• (41:22) Rural vs. Urban Education Experiences
• (49:06) What's That Song?

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• Gobekli
• Ripen
• Solutions Journalism Network
• David Bornstein on On Being
• Human Flourishing Program
• Art Museums and curation
• Humans as "Luxury Goods" in the age of AI
• What is the State of CS Education in 2024?

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we delve into the transformative assessment practices of One Stone, a unique high school that prioritizes student agency and real-world skills. Host Victoria Andrews engages in an enlightening conversation with Celeste Bolin, Executive Director of One Stone, and students Sophie Gunther and Raya Naymik. They discuss the school's innovative approach to assessments, which emphasizes resilience, leadership, and the ability to "fail forward." By integrating students' diverse interests and lived experiences into the learning process, One Stone fosters a supportive environment where effort and growth are valued over traditional grading metrics. This episode offers valuable insights for educators, school leaders, and anyone interested in creating more human-centered, dynamic educational experiences.

• (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast
• (01:33) Sophie's Athletic Journey and Learning
• (03:38) Leadership and Learning at One Stone
• (08:06) Raya's Diverse Interests and Learning
• (12:34) Contrasting Traditional and One Stone Assessments
• (14:44) Celeste on One Stone's Assessment Journey
• (18:50) Student Agency in Assessment
• (25:28) Addressing Student Anxiety in Assessments
• (31:07) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog
• LinkedIn
• One Stone
• Growth Framework
• One Stone Blog
• PBS Brief but Spectacular

Join Shawnee Caruthers and Carlos Moreno in an enlightening conversation on the Getting Smart Podcast as they delve into the transformative power of leading with love, care, and vulnerability in education. This episode, recorded live at South by Southwest, explores the theme of Humanizing Pathways Leadership. Carlos Moreno, co-director of Big Picture Learning, shares his insights and experiences in empowering students and communities. With heartfelt stories and thought-provoking discussions on emotional intelligence and leadership, this episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and anyone passionate about creating impactful educational pathways. Discover how embracing emotional intelligence and community-focused leadership can redefine success in education. Tune in to learn more about how we can all contribute to a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Read the full blog here:

• (00:00) Introduction to Storytelling and Change
• (02:11) Humanizing Pathways Leadership
• (04:50) Audience Interaction and Icebreakers
• (08:24) Emotional Intelligence in Education
• (12:17) Leadership Lessons and Personal Stories
• (29:58) Building Trust and Respect in Education
• (30:59) Navigating Emotions and Vulnerability
• (34:42) The Role of Mentorship in Education
• (41:24) Living by Your Values as a Leader
• (47:24) The Importance of Relationships in Schools
• (50:07) Counseling and Mentoring Educators
• (56:48) Closing Thoughts and Future Actions

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Rebecca Midles delves into the essential competencies of modern-day leadership with Laura Hilger, Senior Director of Teaching and Learning at KnowledgeWorks. Joined by Carmen Coleman and Estrada, the conversation explores the development and impact of the Lead for Learners Network and the Portrait of a Leader. These initiatives aim to guide educational leaders towards sustainable change through personalized, competency-based learning. Discover how collaborative processes and strategic leadership development can drive transformation in educational systems, ensuring leaders are equipped to foster equitable, learner-centered environments. Tune in to learn about upcoming opportunities and insights into building robust leadership pipelines.

• (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast
• (02:36) Overview of the Lead for Learners Network
• (04:46) Development of the Portrait of a Leader
• (07:49) Collaborative Process Behind the Portrait
• (10:58) Impact and Implementation in Local Contexts
• (14:23) Sustainable Change and Leadership Development
• (20:37) Reflective Practice and Professional Learning
• (22:07) Upcoming Events and Opportunities

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• Laura Hilger LinkedIn
• KnowledgeWorks
• Laura Hilger X
• KnowledgeWorks Youtube
• Lead for Learners
• Portrait of a Leader Aurora Institute

In this episode of "Catching Up!", hosts Mason and Nate dive into a lively discussion on the future of education, exploring how learning spaces, AI readiness, and global innovations are reshaping the landscape. From the creative redevelopment of community hubs in former malls to the pressing need for media literacy amidst a wave of information overload, this conversation covers a range of critical topics. They touch on the potential impacts of a new executive order on AI in education and the challenges facing early education systems. With insights from recent trips and conferences, including a poetic cultural journey through Ireland, this episode is packed with thoughtful reflections and forward-thinking ideas on how to best prepare students for an AI-driven world.

Join Mason and Nate as they catch up on these exciting developments and share their vision for fostering collaborative and innovative learning environments.

• (00:00) Introduction and Catching Up
• (01:18) Discussion on Music and Education
• (03:43) Mall Redevelopment and Community Hubs
• (06:43) Super Bloom and Media Theorist
• (10:06) Media Literacy and Info Obesity
• (12:47) America's Promise Alliance Research
• (14:48) Executive Order on AI and Education
• (19:57) Enrollment Issues in Public Schools
• (25:15) Exploring Expanded Learning Ecosystems
• (28:12) The Future of National Assessments
• (32:12) Challenges in Early Education
• (39:06) Cultural Insights from Ireland
• (46:15) What's That Song?

Links

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• Mall redevelopment - OKC
• America's Abandoned Malls
• Drop The Slop
• AI Executive Order
• America's Promise
• How can we reimagine where learning happens?
• Montana Assements
• The Limitations of Through-Year Assessments
• States try to tackle child care shortages — by lowering standards
• Is universal early childhood education and care an equalizer? A systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Kathleen deLaski, author of "Who Needs College Anymore?" to explore the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. DeLaski challenges traditional views on college education, delving into how the rise of alternative pathways like apprenticeships and dual enrollment are reshaping post-secondary education. They discuss the implications of the Great Recession, the impact of AI, and the role of experience as the new "silver bullet" in career advancement. Tune in to discover why the four-year degree might not be the only or best option for today's learners and how these changes are influencing the future of work and education.

Outline

• (00:00) Introduction: Who Needs College Anymore?
• (02:34) The Changing Perception of Higher Education
• (04:27) The Great Recession's Impact on College Value
• (07:21) Is College for All Dead?
• (09:25) Who Needs College? Exploring Different Personas
• (14:17) The Rise and Fall of Bootcamps and MOOCs
• (20:45) The Future of Apprenticeships
• (24:03) The Step Ladder Approach to Higher Education
• (28:43) AI and the Future of Higher Education

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full video here
• Who Needs College Anymore?
• LinkedIn
• Substack
• Education Design Lab
• deLaski Family Foundation
• Blog on the Northeastern Co-op Model
• Riipen
• Ryan Craig on Apprenticeships
• Reach University

On the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia engages with Will Richardson, co-founder of The Big Questions Institute, to explore the evolving role of education in the face of global complexity and potential collapse. Richardson shares insights from his new manifesto, emphasizing the importance of repairing human and ecological relationships as a core educational mission. Together, they delve into the necessity of preparing students emotionally, physically, and spiritually to navigate an increasingly chaotic world. By focusing on adaptive change, curiosity, and the beauty of interconnectedness, this conversation challenges traditional schooling narratives and invites educators to rethink the skills and dispositions needed for the future. Tune in to discover how schools can become beacons of hope and resilience in uncertain times.

• (00:00) Introduction and Host's Perspective
• (02:29) Introducing Will Richardson
• (05:27) Understanding Complexity in Education
• (07:21) Confronting Collapse: A New Manifesto
• (12:14) The IDGs and Skills for Growth
• (18:35) The Importance of Shared Language and Nature
• (25:07) The Role of Schools in Navigating Complexity
• (34:14) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog
• LinkedIn
• Will Richardson Manifesto
• Will Richardson Substack
• Margaret Wheatley
• Roman Krznaric, The Good Ancestor
• Indy Johar
• Inner Development Goals
• The Consilience Project
• 12 Big Questions eBook
• Hospicing Modernity by Vanessa Machado de Oliviera

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sara Schapiro, the director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation. Together, they explore the critical need for enhanced research and development (R&D) within the education sector—an area historically underfunded compared to other industries like healthcare. The discussion delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of education R&D, highlighting the importance of both federal and state-level support in developing interoperable data systems that drive innovation. Sara emphasizes the essential role of venture capital and design research in shaping the future of EdTech, while also stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in schools. This episode serves as a call to action for educators, policymakers, and parents to collaboratively advocate for stronger R&D infrastructure, ensuring that every student benefits from cutting-edge educational strategies. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of education innovation and the pathways to achieving it.

• (00:00) Introduction: The Need for More R&D in Education
• (01:21) Introducing Sarah Schapiro and the Alliance for Learning Innovation
• (02:56) Challenges in Education R&D Funding
• (08:10) State-Level Data Systems and Federal Support
• (10:23) Higher Education and Research Incentives
• (13:12) Venture Capital in EdTech
• (16:30) The Role of Federal Government in Education R&D
• (22:50) Conclusion: Collaboration and Next Steps

• Watch the full video here
• Read the blog here
• Sara Schapiro LinkedIn
• Sara Schapiro Forbes
• Digital Promise
• Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI)
• ALI Policy Recommendations for 2025
• The Need Act
• Erin Mote
• Project Unicorn (Interoperability)
• ALI Funding Analysis
• SOLD Alliance
• Reach Capital
• Rethink Impact

In this episode of "Catching Up!", join Mason Pashia and Nate McClennen as they explore the intersection of learning spaces, AI readiness, and global education innovations. Discover how AI-assisted teams outperform conventional groups and what New Zealand's competency-based education system can teach us about learner records. Delve into the role of technology adoption inspired by the Amish and how this shapes community values. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or lifelong learner, this episode offers insights into the evolving landscape of education and the future of learning ecosystems.

• (00:00) Introduction and Overview
• (03:30) Travel Insights and Education Systems
• (07:17) Parent-School Communication and Student Proficiency
• (09:52) Fan Mail and Demand for Innovative Education
• (21:33) The Pendulum of Knowledge and Competency
• (23:50) New Zealand's Competency-Based Education System
• (27:09) Global Lifelong Learning Initiatives
• (33:59) AI in the Workplace: A Study on Efficiency and Emotions
• (37:10) Human Connection in the Age of AI

• Watch the full video here
• Read teh full blog here
• B-Flation: How "Good" Grades Can Sideline Parents
• Learning Lab Wichita
• In the City by the Sea, a Civic Upswing is Underway
• Transforming Public Education: A Blueprint for Learner-Centered Change
• ExcelinEd's Pathways ROI Analysis
• CoSN Leading the Way in AI for K-12
• Empowering Learners for School, Work, and Life: Insights from the Research Practice Collaborative (Phase I)
• Aotearoa New Zealand's rationale for micro-credentials
• Reinventing the Traditional HS Diploma: New Zealand
• New Zealand Record of Achievement
• The Cybernetic Teammate
• Relationally Responsible Tech: Designing a Digital Future That Puts People First

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jordan Luster explores the transformative potential of relational intelligence in education with Isabelle Hau, Executive Director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning and author of "Love to Learn." Together, they explore the concept of relational intelligence (RQ) and its importance in shaping relationship-centered learning environments. Isabelle shares insights on how fostering strong emotional connections can enhance learning experiences, emphasizing that love and relationships are foundational to education. The conversation further examines how microschools and community-centered models can be effective solutions to the relational crisis in education, offering personalized and meaningful learning experiences. Isabelle also highlights the role of technology, advocating for "relationally responsible tech" that supports human connections. This episode is a must-listen for educators and leaders seeking to integrate deeper emotional and social learning elements into their educational practices.

• Watch the full video here
• LinkedIn
• Love to Learn
• Isabelle Hau Site
• Wildflower Montessori