In this interview with James Fester, we discuss using informal learning approaches within formal learning spaces, what makes a learning experience engaging, how James’ experience in the National Parks Service’s Teacher Ranger Teacher program informed how he taught in the classroom, unpacking nuances of project-based learning, debunking common misconceptions of PBL, and so much more.

Click here for this episode’s show notes.

How to Get Started with Computer Science Education

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00:00 Intro

00:58 James introducing himself

02:24 Something James learned writing a book

05:07 An experience in education that continues to impact James

09:06 James' understanding of an engaging learning experience

12:10 Learning to facilitate instead of lecture

20:06 What is project-based learning?

24:28 What PBL looks like in a classroom

28:15 What are misconceptions with PBL?

32:48 When James wouldn't use PBL

36:04 How to learn more about PBL

38:56 What is SEL?

41:27 How James prevents burnout

45:36 What's holding back educators and what can we do about it?

49:35 How James iterates on his abilities as an educator

51:13 What James wishes there was more research on

53:52 How to connect with James

55:42 Outro