Hallway Conversations

In this episode, Matt brings up one of Dave’s most-read blog posts, which is entitled “No More Crappy Homework,” and raises the question, “How do we avoid giving ‘crappy homework?’” Dave shares from some of the research he has done about what makes for effective homework. Matt and Dave reflect together on some of the less-than-optimal assignments they gave to students early in their careers, and talk about equitable homework, grading homework, and various perspectives parents have on the value of homework. Matt asks about strategies for making more effective homework, and Dave shares some research-based suggestions.

You can read Dave’s original blog post here: https://iteach-and-ilearn.blogspot.com/2015/12/no-more-crappy-homework.html 

In this episode, Matt kicks things off by asking, “How can we do ‘self-care’ well as educators?” We discuss the pros and cons of the idea of work-life balance, our identities as educators, the importance of supporting each other as colleagues, and caring for ourselves well so we can serve others well. We get a little vulnerable about our own struggles with this, and share some of the strategies we use to strive to keep our lives in rhythm.

In this episode, Matt raises the question, “What motivates you?” We talk about different aspects of motivation, including Dan Pink’s work around autonomy, mastery, and purpose, the challenge of our Enneagram number (we are both type 3), and learning to be our authentic selves. Dave shares his 10-minute rule for getting started on hard things, and Matt shares his conception of vision-driven decision-making, which he finds very motivating.

In this episode, Matt asks the question, “What would be your metaphor for describing yourself as a teacher?” As we discuss this question, we share our own metaphors for our teaching. We also discuss how Dave talks with his whole body, the role of playfulness and imagination in our teaching practices, and how we exhibit care and concern for our students.

In this episode, Dave asks the question, “How much should we focus on goals in education?” As we discuss this question we talk about the role of learning targets, hospitality in the classroom, and teaching responsively. Matt and Dave both share some stories from their own practice and the way we’ve grown in understanding what students need and how clarity on goals can actually encourage learning.

Coming soon: a new podcast series from a couple of guys who have been teaching for a while, but still have lots of questions about education. We welcome you to listen in on our "hallway conversations" about topics and issues that we think are important for Christian educators to consider, no matter where you teach, what subject you teach, or what grade levels you teach.

We invite you into conversation, and we hope these might spark some hallway conversations of your own!