Teach Wonder

In this episode, we discuss updates to our Educator Institute, a professional learning community focused on equitable teaching practices in STEM. We talk about the challenges we faced when testing our self-reflection tool as one for observation and how we shifted things. If you work with future teachers, or are trying to better your own practice, this episode is a one that talks about the intentional ways we have to self-reflection and pitfalls to avoid when observing others. 

Intro Music by: David Biedenbender

Music by Viacheslav Starostin 

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Ashley and Julie discuss the Educator Institute, a project aimed at bridging the gap between classroom teachers and future educators. They emphasize the importance of shared language and practices among educators. They talk about their experiences using the tool to both self-reflection and observe others. 

Intro Music: David Biedenbender

Other Music: by Clavier Clavier from Pixabay

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In this episode Ashley O'Neil and Julie Cunningham discuss the book Troublemakers by Carla Shalaby as it relates to curiosity and agency. This book was part of the summer work in the Educator Institute, discussed in Episodes 1 and 2. In this episode they've each brought specific examples from the book and explore how these examples challenged or reframed their thinking. Throughout the podcast, the  balance between classroom management and fostering authentic student engagement and self-expression is a central theme. They wrap up the episode by discussing some ways that teachers can sustain these types of practices in the classroom. 

Read the book: Troublemakers

Intro Music: David Biedenbender 

Outro Music:  Leigh Robinson from Pixabay

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Ashley and Julie are hear talking about what Risky Play has to do with Curiosity in the classroom. They highlight the need for educators to shift from replication to genuine learning, valuing respectful relationships and deeper skills. Ashley reflects on her experience with a homeschool group, noting the challenge of balancing student agency with personal expectations.

Link to Article on Risky Play

Intro Music: David Biedenbender

Outtro Music: Music by Christoph Scholl from Pixabay

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 Ashley O'Neil and Julie Cunningham, hosts of the Teach Wonder podcast, discuss the Educator Institute, a new project at Central Michigan University's Center for Excellence in STEM education. The Educator Institute began this summer when a group of educators and Center staff created a professional learning community who then developed an educator observation tool. This tool is intended to scaffold reflection on equitable classroom practices in STEM education. The tool will be piloted by members of the learning community, Center staff and pre-service teachers who work with children in the maker space at the Center. You are invited to join us on our journey this fall as we make meaning out of our experiences with the tool in our learning community.

Intro Music: David Biedenbender 

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In this episode we sit down with Steve Frisbee, camp director at the Chippewa Nature Center. We discuss the importance of experiential learning and community in childhood development. Steve emphasizes the shift from content-driven to experience-focused education, highlighting the transformative impact of nature on children's lives. We hear how the center's programs foster risk-taking, social interaction, and personal growth, using examples like frogging and group adventures. This conversation underscores the need for collaboration between parents, educators, and the community to create safe, nature-rich spaces that nurture children's development. You won't want to miss it! 

Intro Music by: David Biedenbender

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In today's episode, we discuss the elements that build community, drawing from our experiences in various settings. We highlight the importance of predictability, humanizing leadership, and intentional communication. Sharing examples from both our personal lives and the makerspace, we note how social interactions and choice foster community among students. Community emerges from intentional practices and shared values, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration. 

Introduction Music by: David Biedenbender 

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In this episode of Teach Wonder, we explore the powerful intersection of agency, playful learning, and social interactions. Drawing from our experiences in Iceland and classroom observations, we dive into how stepping back as educators can create rich, organic learning communities. Discover how giving students choice and autonomy can lead to more meaningful peer interactions, deeper engagement, and joyful learning experiences. Whether you're an educator, parent, or curious learner, this episode offers insights into fostering environments where children can explore, connect, and grow together.

Pedagogy of Play - Diagram on page 50 

Intro Music: David Biedenbender

Other music: Pixabay 

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This episode focuses on the subtle teaching moves that matter most. Our guest, Sveinlaug Sigurðardóttir-  an Icelandic teacher- discusses her role as an outdoor teacher at a joint primary and play school. She talks about the importance of outdoor education for children's development. She highlights the value of nature, autonomy, and social skills learned through adventure trips, which are designed to be flexible and responsive to the children's needs and interests. This episode is a fantastic listen for parents and educators alike. 

Intro Music: David Biedenbender
Other Music: Pixabay 

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About Laura 

Intro Music: David Biedenbender
Other Music: Noru Pixabay 

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