Learning Through Technology

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators. 

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex Inman and Robert Cireddu discuss campus security with Dave Teague, president of Academic Integrations. The conversation explores a proactive approach to K-12 safety, emphasizing the importance of policies, procedures, and community collaboration over a reliance on technology alone. 

Dave shares insights from his career, including lessons shaped by tragic school events, and introduces the "7-pillar approach" to security planning. They also discuss innovations like automated attendance, license plate recognition, and integrated systems to enhance safety and efficiency. The episode calls for a shift from reactive to strategic, empowering schools to safeguard students and staff effectively.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• Introduction to Campus Security
• Lessons from Past Incidents
• Proactive vs. Reactive Security Measures
• The "7-Pillar Approach" to School Security
• Technological Advancements in School Security
• Gaining Operational Value from Campus Security Solutions
• Integrating Safety and Security Systems
• Empowerment through Proactive Training

Dave Teague is a leader in integrating technology into education. His career has been dedicated to enhancing safety, communication, and infrastructure within K-12 and higher education settings. As President of Academic Integrations, Dave oversees innovative low-voltage system solutions, including networking, access control, video surveillance, and visitor management. His expertise lies in guiding institutions through planning, implementation, and lifecycle budgeting for critical systems.

Additionally, Dave is the Board Chairman of Freeman School District, where he formerly served as the Technology Director. Passionate about leveraging technology for community betterment, Dave continues to shape smarter, safer educational environments.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

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• Spotify 
• YouTube

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Show Notes:

A big thank you to our sponsors!

FETC:

Join thousands of educators at FETC 2025! Discover the latest in education technology with exclusive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. Register by January 13 to save with Standard pricing. Use promo code TECHLEARN2025 to get an additional 10% off. Visit fetc.org to learn more!

ViewSonic: 

ViewSonic is your go-to technology partner for engaging students, fostering collaboration, and elevating learning outcomes. ViewSonic is more than a brand- it's your educational edge- offering a broad array of future-ready audio-visual solutions, training, and tools that adapt to your school's changing needs. Explore the possibilities today at viewsonic.com/edu!

Lenovo: 

Imagine a future where students can access tools that spark learning, growth, and creativity. At Lenovo, our K-12 solutions are designed to create a world where edtech tools are safe and secure, engaging and easy to use, and built for productivity wherever learning occurs. Visit us at www.lenovo.com/us/en/student/!

Other Resources:

• Dave Teague on LinkedIn
• Academic Integrations Website
• I Love U Guys Foundation Standard Response Protocol
• PASS School Safety and Security Checklist 
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators Website
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education  Website
• STS Education on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators. 

Welcome to this episode of Learning Through Technology. Today, we’re doing something different. Alex was recently invited to feature a guest on the School Leaders Project podcast by its host, Cindy Blackburn, who is the Director of Learning and Engagement at Toddle. Let’s join Alex and Cindy as they explore the intersection of education and technology, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and meaningful change management. Drawing from his two decades of EdTech experience, Alex emphasizes the importance of intentionality, inclusivity, and data-driven insights when implementing technological advancements like AI and one-to-one computing in schools. 

The thoughtful discussion with Cindy highlights the challenges and opportunities of integrating technology into education. With a focus on fostering collaboration and preserving what works, Alex inspires educators to balance innovation with human connection for impactful, sustainable progress in learning environments.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• 
  The Concept of Synergy in Collaboration
• Challenges of One-to-One Computing
• Importance of Change Management
• The "3 Ins of Change" Framework
• Historical Perspectives on Technological Shifts
• Balancing Preservation and Innovation
• The Roll Out of AI in Education
• Creating Balance Between Productivity and Well-being

Cindy Blackburn is a dedicated learning and development professional with expertise in creating impactful and engaging instructional content. As Director of Learning & Engagement at Toddle, she leads the development of curriculum, online courses, and interactive resources for a global LMS platform. Known for her strategic and adaptable approach, Cindy excels at transforming complex ideas into accessible learning experiences. Passionate about innovation and continuous improvement, she fosters meaningful educational transformations that empower individuals and organizations to reach their potential.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify 
• YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are Here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Follow us on LinkedIn here. 

A big thank you to our sponsors!

FETC:

Join thousands of educators at FETC 2025! Discover the latest in education technology with exclusive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. Register by December 13 to save with Early Bird pricing. Use promo code TECHLEARN2025 to get an additional 10% off. Visit www.fetc.org to learn more!

ViewSonic: 

ViewSonic is your go-to technology partner for engaging students, fostering collaboration, and elevating learning outcomes. ViewSonic is more than a brand- it's your educational edge- offering a broad array of future-ready audio-visual solutions, training, and tools that adapt to your school's changing needs. Explore the possibilities today at viewsonic.com/edu!

Lenovo: 

Imagine a future where students can access tools that spark learning, growth, and creativity. At Lenovo, our K-12 solutions are designed to create a world where ed tech tools are safe and secure, engaging and easy to use, and built for productivity wherever learning occurs. Visit us at www.lenovo.com/us/en/student/!

Other Resources:

• Cindy Blackburn on LinkedIn
• Toddle on LinkedIn
• School Leaders Project Podcast
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education  Website
• STS Education on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators. 

In this Learning Through Technology podcast episode, Alex and Bob connect with Kevin McGuire, Director of Technology at Michigan City Area Schools. Kevin shares his journey from network administrator to DoT and for a short tenure, CFO, highlighting the need to bridge departments and involve the community in funding tech initiatives. He discusses both short-term and strategic technology planning that delivers positive student outcomes. He shares his focus on staff development and stresses the importance of internet access for students, technology's role in education, and measuring tech effectiveness on student outcomes. His unique perspective blends financial management and technology leadership, offering insights into strategic planning for schools.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• Kevin's journey in education
• Bridging the funding gap between technology and education
• Kevin’s approach to technology planning
• The importance of leveraging community support for funding initiatives
• Creating a positive work culture
• Importance of talent retention
• Prioritizing internet access for students
• Measuring the ROI of technology in education

Kevin has achieved many accomplishments with Michigan City Area Schools over his 24-year career. He has been directly responsible for building projects ranging from minor updates to massive multimillion-dollar construction. MCAS is also one of the leaders in the state of Indiana in their open-source initiatives. At MCAS, he continues to strive to save money and open up opportunities for integrating technology by selecting tools that offer positive outcomes and flexibility. Kevin is recognized as a forward thinker and one willing to move outside the box.

Kevin’s specialties include IT Building Construction, IT planning, Network Architecture, VoIP Architecture, and the K12 classroom environment.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify 
• YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are Here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Follow us on LinkedIn here. 

Show Notes:

A big thank you to our sponsors!

FETC:

Join thousands of educators at FETC 2025! Discover the latest in education technology with exclusive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. Register by December 13 to save with Early Bird pricing. Use promo code TECHLEARN2025 to get an additional 10% off. Visit www.fetc.org to learn more!

ViewSonic: 

ViewSonic is your go-to technology partner for engaging students, fostering collaboration, and elevating learning outcomes. ViewSonic is more than a brand- it's your educational edge- offering a broad array of future-ready audio-visual solutions, training, and tools that adapt to your school's changing needs. Explore the possibilities today at viewsonic.com/edu!

Lenovo: 

Imagine a future where students can access tools that spark learning, growth, and creativity. At Lenovo, our K-12 solutions are designed to create a world where ed tech tools are safe and secure, engaging and easy to use, and built for productivity wherever learning occurs. Visit us at www.lenovo.com/us/en/student/!

Other Resources:

• Kevin McGuire on LinkedIn
• MCSA Website
• Kevin’s Accessibility Project on The Cyber Tap Podcast
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education  Website
• STS Education on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators. 

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex and Bob round up Cyber Security Awareness month by sitting down with Lane Young, Director of Strategic Operations and Technology at Phillips Brooks School. They explore the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by K-12 schools, particularly the role of human error in vulnerabilities. Lane discusses his journey from teaching to EdTech leadership, highlighting the importance of staff training, proactive measures like multi-factor authentication, and the complexities of balancing teacher autonomy with security. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity and the growing need for specialized knowledge in education technology.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• Introduction to Lane Young
• Lane's Journey into EdTech Leadership
• Highlighting the Cybersecurity Challenges in K-12
• Importance of Ongoing Training while Maintaining Teacher Autonomy
• Proactive Cybersecurity Measures
• The Role of Specialists in Cybersecurity
• Using AI in Cybersecurity
• Lane’s Favorite Teacher

Lane Young is the Director of Strategic Operations and Technology at Phillips Brooks School, where he oversees the implementation of technology leadership and strategic initiatives. His career in EdTech began unexpectedly after transitioning from a role as a 4th-grade teacher and years of experience working in public libraries. A chance opportunity led him into educational technology, and he quickly rose to a leadership position. In his current role, Lane focuses on executing the school’s strategic plan and managing key areas like safety and security, ensuring digital and physical protection. His journey highlights his adaptability and dedication to educational advancement. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

•  Apple Podcasts
•  Spotify 
•  YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are Here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Follow us on LinkedIn here. 

Cybersecurity Rubric

The Cybersecurity Coalition for Education is a group of leading EdTech organizations committed to making cybersecurity preparedness and training more accessible for schools.

The coalition pioneered a groundbreaking education-focused approach to measuring and improving cybersecurity readiness, the Cybersecurity Rubric (CR) for Education. Along with the rubric, the alliance provides training and certification designed to guide schools to cybersecurity readiness.

Visit: https://www.cybersecurityrubric.org/

A big thank you to our sponsors!

FETC:

Join thousands of educators at FETC 2025! Discover the latest in education technology with exclusive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. Register by December 13 to save with Early Bird pricing. Use promo code TECHLEARN2025 to get an additional 10% off. Visit www.fetc.org to learn more!

ViewSonic: 

ViewSonic is your go-to technology partner for engaging students, fostering collaboration, and elevating learning outcomes. ViewSonic is more than a brand- it's your educational edge- offering a broad array of future-ready audio-visual solutions, training, and tools that adapt to your school's changing needs. Explore the possibilities today at viewsonic.com/edu!

Lenovo: 

Imagine a future where students can access tools that spark learning, growth, and creativity. At Lenovo, our K-12 solutions are designed to create a world where ed tech tools are safe and secure, engaging and easy to use, and built for productivity wherever learning occurs. Visit us at www.lenovo.com/us/en/student/!

Other Resources

• Lane Young on LinkedIn
• Phillips Brooks School Website
• The Swiss Cheese Model
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn
• Want Alex and his team’s help with your school’s cyber prevention? Check out K12 Cybersecurity Assessment

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

• The Reality of Cyber Attacks
• The Ransomware Attack Scenario
• Immediate Response to an Attack
• Managing Operations During a Crisis
• The Importance of an Incident Response Plan
• Communication with Stakeholders Post-Attack
• Lessons Learned from Actual Cyber Incidents

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify 
• YouTube

• Want Alex and his team’s help with your school’s cyber prevention? Check out K12 Cybersecurity Assessment
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators. 

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex and Bob discuss cybersecurity in education with John Case, Director of Technology at Ohio Hi-Point Career Centre. John shares insights on managing cybersecurity in career tech education, involving non-technical staff in risk assessments, and launching a successful cybersecurity program at schools. The episode emphasizes collaboration, stakeholder involvement, and community engagement in creating secure learning environments. John also reflects on a personal story about his most impactful teacher and the value of continuous learning.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• A Closer Look at Career Technical Education
• Managing Cybersecurity in a Distributed Environment
• Current Cybersecurity Assessment in Education
• Cybersecurity Program at Ohio Hi-Point Career Centre
• The Need for a Collaborative Approach to Cybersecurity
• Implementing Cybersecurity -  Education and Safety
• John’s Favorite Teacher

John Case has been with Ohio Hi-Point Career Center since October 2000, initially as Technology Coordinator and now as Director of Technology. He oversees the daily operations of the Technology Department, including the 1:1 laptop program and over 30 satellite programs that deliver career technical education to partner schools.

Under his leadership, Ohio Hi-Point became one of the first public schools in Ohio to launch a 1:1 laptop initiative, a program that has thrived for more than a decade. John manages the virtualized data center (VMWare), full-campus wireless networking, iSCSI SAN storage, and a 10 Gbps fiber optic backbone.

Despite the challenges, John finds his role incredibly rewarding and takes great pride in contributing to the school environment. His passion for education and technology drives his commitment to fostering secure, cutting-edge learning experiences.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify 
• YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are Here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Subscribe to our Newsletter Here.

Ohio Hi-Point Career Center

The Ohio Hi-Point Career Center is a career–technical school that provides career–technical training to high school students and adults in west-central Ohio. Founded in 1974, the Ohio Hi-Point (OHP) Career Center in Bellefontaine, Ohio, is a two-year career-technical school district serving 11th and 12th-grade students in 14 partner school districts covering five counties, which comprises the career-technical planning district (CTPD). 

Visit: https://www.ohiohipoint.com/

Cybersecurity Rubric

The Cybersecurity Coalition for Education is a group of leading EdTech organizations committed to making cybersecurity preparedness and training more accessible for schools.

The coalition pioneered a groundbreaking education-focused approach to measuring and improving cybersecurity readiness, the Cybersecurity Rubric (CR) for Education. Along with the rubric, the alliance provides training and certification designed to guide schools to cybersecurity readiness.

Visit: https://www.cybersecurityrubric.org/

FETC:

Join thousands of educators at FETC 2025! Discover the latest in education technology with exclusive sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. Register by December 13 to save with Early Bird pricing. Use promo code TECHLEARN2025 to get an additional 10% off. Visit www.fetc.org to learn more!

Other Resources

• John Case on LinkedIn
• Ohio Hi-Point Career Center Website
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology is reshaping how we live, work, and learn, and artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this transformation. In this Learning Through Technology podcast episode, Alex and Bob sit down with Lindy Hockenbary, an instructional technology expert, author, and consultant, to discuss the evolving role of AI in education. Lindy brings her wealth of knowledge, helping educators navigate this new landscape by offering practical insights and strategies for integrating AI effectively in the classroom.

Lindy emphasizes that educators cannot ignore the rise of AI, as it is quickly becoming a staple in students' lives. With AI capable of writing essays, solving problems, and even sounding remarkably human, traditional assessments and teaching methods need a reimagining. Lindy advocates for a shift from product-based assessments, like written essays, to process-focused approaches that encourage critical thinking and deeper learning. She also explores how AI can be used to generate examples—both good and bad—that students can analyze, enhancing their evaluative skills and promoting academic integrity.

Throughout the episode, Lindy provides actionable advice for teachers at all levels of AI familiarity, urging them to experiment with AI by having it generate lesson plans based on their specific classroom needs. She highlights how understanding and using AI can help teachers engage students in meaningful ways and ensure that education remains relevant in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Key highlights from the conversation include:

• The basics of AI literacy and how to approach it with teachers and students.
• Lindy's thoughts on how AI is reshaping traditional assessments and the need for change in educational practices.
• Practical advice for shifting focus from product-based assessments to process-oriented learning, using AI to create learning opportunities that foster critical thinking.
• A simple, hands-on approach for educators new to AI, helping them gain confidence in using AI tools to support their teaching.

In addition to her work as a consultant, Lindy is an author and presenter at educational conferences, helping educators explore the possibilities of technology in the classroom. Her passion lies in helping teachers embrace the changes AI brings to education while maintaining the human touch that fosters true learning.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Subscribe to our Newsletter Here

Episode Resources:

• AI Literacy Framework from Digital Promise
• Lindy Hockenbary on LinkedIn
• Lindy Hockenbary Intechgrated PD Website
• Hapara Website
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators.

In this Learning Through Technology podcast episode, Alex and Bob connect with Mark Urwick, an Education Professional at the Oxnard School District. Mark is a social studies teacher at RJ Frank Academy and the induction coordinator for the Oxnard School District, responsible for training new teachers.

Join us as we explore technology integration in education, the benefits of project-based learning, and supporting new teachers through mentorship programs. Mark also discusses the importance of maintaining a balance between traditional and tech-based teaching methods, using AI in the classroom, and the importance of using technology to create meaningful and authentic learning experiences for the students. Mark talks about attending Project Zero at Harvard over the summer along with a group of teachers under training, and the program's benefits on new teachers.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• How to integrate technology across different subjects
• Out of Eden Learn platform and cultural exchange for global exposure
• Benefits of technology for ESL students
• A closer look at the new teacher induction program
• The role of AI in education
• Challenges and benefits of integrating technology into education
• Using technology to enhance learning

As a social studies teacher at RJ Frank Academy and the Oxnard School District's induction coordinator, Mark is responsible for training new teachers. During his time at Oxnard, Mark has played a pivotal role in using a grant received by the school to turn the traditional K-8 middle school into a STEM-focused academy. 

Through discussions, the school chose marine science and engineering as its focus, developing electives like marine science, robotics, and a STEAM lab for 3D printing. The initiative, which took three years to implement, changed the school’s culture and provided students with hands-on STEM experiences, including trips to the Channel Islands and opportunities in robotics. Mark has also attended Harvard’s Project Zero, which has helped him further enhance the program.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

•  Apple Podcasts
•  Spotify 
•  YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are Here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Subscribe to our Newsletter Here.

Mark’s Resources for Listeners:

• Here is the link for the interactive platform that I really like called The Open Canopy but until recently, was Out of Eden Learn: https://learn.outofedenwalk.com/ 
• Open Canopy (Project Zero) Website: https://pz.harvard.edu/projects/the-open-canopy-formerly-known-as-out-of-eden-learn
• He is the link to the blog I wrote for Out of Eden: https://walktolearn.outofedenwalk.com/author/urwick/
• Introduction to Out Of Eden Learn Platform (PDF): https://pz.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/Out%20of%20Eden%20Learn%20Info%20Packet.pdf
• Here is the link to the VCOE Induction website: https://www.vcoe.org/Educator-Support-and-Effectiveness/Credential-Programs/Teacher-Induction-Program
• Mark has offered to help any educators who would like additional resources or help implementing this program. They can email him at [email protected]
  
  

Other Resources:

• Mark Urwick on LinkedIn
• Oxnard School District  Website
• RJ Frank Academy Website
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators.

In this Learning Through Technology podcast episode, Alex and Bob connect with Gary Stager, Founder and CEO of Constructing Modern Knowledge, a summer institute for educators. Gary is one of the original pioneers of Ed Tech, and over his 30-year career, he has been a keynote speaker, journalist, teacher educator, consultant, professor, software developer, publisher, and school administrator. Gary believes that we learn by standing on the shoulders of giants. Let’s learn from this giant in Ed Tech.

Gary recounts his early involvement in 1-to-1 computing in Australia and his passion for using computers to enhance learning. He stresses the importance of empowering learners through technology, criticizing the trend of using tech for compliance rather than creativity. Gary calls for a shift in mindset towards fostering meaningful learning experiences and emphasizes the value of computational thinking. He advocates for simplicity in tech integration and shares insights on creating inspiring educational environments, urging teachers to embrace students' interests and promote a love of learning.

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• Introduction to Gary’s background in Ed Tech
• Gary's passion for Ed Tech and its origins
• Defining Ed Tech and clarifying its purpose
• Loss of creativity in teachers and reliance on technology
• Concerns about the current state of Ed Tech
• The future of Ed Tech and computational thinking
• Creating an environment for student engagement and bringing joy to learning
• Advice for new teachers
• The impact of caring teachers on students' lives

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 Constructing Modern Knowledge, a summer institute for educators.

Dr. Stager is co-author of Invent To Learn—Making, Tinkering, and Engineering in the Classroom, which Larry Magid of CBS and The San Jose Mercury News called the “bible of the maker movement in schools.” Invent To Learn has been translated into nine languages. Dr. Stager’s most recent book is Twenty Things to Do with a Computer Forward 50: Future Visions of Education Inspired by Seymour Papert and Cynthia Solomon’s Seminal Work.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify 
• YouTube

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Gary’s Recommended Resources: https://professorgarystager.com/pod

Gary says we learn by standing on the shoulders of giants, so we must read what they have written:

• Being Digital by Nicholas Negroponte 
• The Children's Machine: Rethinking School In The Age Of The Computer by Seymour Papert
• When Things Start to Think by Niel Gershenfeld
• The Second Self: Computers and The Human Spirit by Sherry Turkle
• Mindstorms: Children, Computers and Powerful Ideas, Chapter 7 by Seymour Papert

Other reads mentioned in the episode:

• "The Computer In The School, Tutor, Tool, Tutee" - CITE Journal
• Twenty Things to Do with a Computer Forward 50: Future Visions of Education Inspired by Seymour Papert and Cynthia Solomon’s Seminal Work by Gary Stager
• Basic Computer Games by David Ahl

Other Resources:

• Gary Stager on LinkedIn
• Gary Stager Website
• Resources for Educators Interested in the Work of Gary Stager
• Constructing Modern Knowledge Website
• Cymbal Press Website
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. Integrating technology in classrooms has brought about significant changes, offering new opportunities and challenges for students and educators.

In this Learning Through Technology podcast episode, Alex and Bob connect with Amir Jones, Instrumental Music Teacher at Painesville City Local Schools. Amir is a passionate music teacher who combines his love for music and technology in his career. Join them as they discuss Amir's journey from student to teacher, his transformation of the school's band program, and technology integration in music education. 

Amir shares his insights on the changing role of technology in education and offers advice to other music teachers. The conversation also touches Amir's side hustle in live streaming and audiovisual services. Overall, this engaging podcast highlights teachers' importance and impact on students, emphasizing hands-on learning and student ownership in education. 

Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:

• Amir Jones journey to becoming a music teacher
• Amir's transformation of the school's band program
• Integration of technology in the music program
• The importance of ownership and setting high standards for students
• Providing students career-ready skills in media production
• Setting up a recording studio in the school
• The changing role of technology in education 
• Amir's involvement in live streaming and audiovisual installations
• Advice for music teachers on integrating technology

Amir has been teaching instrumental music for grades 9-12 in the Painesville City Local Schools system for over seventeen years. He teaches piano, music technology, music production, jazz ensemble, wind ensemble, and concert band courses at Harvey High School. His additional responsibilities include Marching Band Director, AV Coordinator, Auditorium Manager, Union Representative, Negotiations Team Member, and Instrumental Music Department Chair.

Outside of teaching, he is a music and media director and accompanist at his local church. He has recently launched his technology consulting company: Pixel Perfect Media and Livestreaming Service, LLC.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:

•  Apple Podcasts
•  Spotify 
•  YouTube

Instructions on how to do this are here. 

Like what you’re hearing on the podcasts and want to dive deeper?

Subscribe to our Newsletter Here

Amir’s Recommended Resources: 

• Music Notation Software (Free): MuseScore Website
• Music Creation Studio (Free): Garage Band 
• Video Editing Software (Free): iMovie 
• Professional Digital Audio Workstation (Paid): Logic Pro
• Music and Audio Post-Production Software (Paid): ProTools
• Professional Video Editing Software (Paid): FinalCut Pro
• Creative design, production, editing software (Paid): Adobe Creative Cloud

Other Resources:

• Amir Jones on LinkedIn
• Painesville City Local Schools Website
• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education   Website
• STS Education Group on LinkedIn

Learning Through Technology Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so