Teaching and Learning: Theory vs. Practice

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Frank Harris about affirming students’ identities and affirming their strengths. Dr. Harris shares how to disrupt the 3D effect of distrust, disdain, and disregard with trust, mutual respect, and care. We also talk about his newly developed concept of racelighting.

In this episode, we talk to Kiwana Sanders, principal of an alternative school, doctoral student in interdisciplinary leadership, and master teacher. She discusses the role of community in developing cultural competencies to meet the needs of students who need us the most.

In this episode, we talk to Mr. Rann Miller, a Diversity in Ed staff writer, published author, and high school social science teacher. Mr. Miller shares his experiences as an education researcher and writer to advocate for improving the teaching landscape.  We talk about the reasons for the increasing disparity in representation of educators who look like the students in their classrooms.  Mr. Miller discusses his research and ways we might improve teacher retention.  He also previews his upcoming book Resistance Stories from Black History for Kids - children’s book with notes and resources.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Phyllis West, Director of the Social Justice Initiative at Governors State University. Dr. West discusses the importance of listening for opportunities, being curious, and doing what may seem most challenging.  She talks about staying connected with friends, family, and teachers from her youth and shares the lasting power of words, particularly from her 3rd and 4th grade teachers, that shaped who she would become. We also discuss the mission and vision for the Social Justice Initiative with its first tremendous step to coordinate a legal clinic.

In this episode, we talk to Camille Auguste about book censorship and book banning trends. Ms. Auguste stresses the importance of self-reflection and really knowing our students to better connect with their needs. We also discuss partnerships with parents to encourage rich conversations about curriculum. Ms. Auguste is inspired by the works and philosophies of revolutionary individuals such as James Baldwin, Paulo Freire, Gholdy Muhammad, Assata Shakur, Gloria Ladson-Billings, Muhammad Ali, and Bettina Love, to name a few.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Jeremy Coleman, the Principal of Brookview Elementary School in Indianapolis, Indiana. Drawing upon his experiences with mentoring youth, serving as a correctional officer, coaching, and teaching, Dr. Coleman discusses how theory met practice in his approach as a school administrator. He shares strategies for retention through teachers self-selecting professional development and having a strong sense of community.  We also discuss ideas for improving the theory and practice connection in educator preparation.

Referenced in this podcast

• Greene, Ross (2014). Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them
• Kohn, Alfie (1999). Punished by Rewards: The Trouble with Gold Stars, Incentive Plans, A's, Praise, and Other Bribes
• Yale University Child Study Center (2016). A RESEARCH STUDY BRIEF: Do Early Educators’ Implicit Biases Regarding Sex and Race Relate to Behavior Expectations and Recommendations of Preschool Expulsions and Suspensions? Walter S. Gilliam, PhD; Angela N. Maupin, PhD; Chin R. Reyes, PhD; Maria Accavitti, BS; Frederick Shic, PhD

Released December 10 (31 minutes)

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Comfort Agboola about writing in the middle grades content areas. She discusses what the writing process looks like in a math classroom and she encourages students through choice and conversation. Ms. Agboola also shares strategies for implementing writing across the curriculum to support content learning.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Abiodun Durojaye about the significance of one’s name and cultural identity. She shares how she finally became Abiodun years after the pivotal moment in her childhood when she decided to be “Abby.” We also discuss how both educators and students can honor names and be advocates for their correct pronunciations.

For more information about Dr. Durojaye’s research, listen to My Black is Transnational

 S3E18- "What's in a Name?!": Why Black Immigrants change their names in America w/Abiodun Durojaye

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Damon Williams about using data to drive important conversations about increasing education gaps and the innovation needed to close them.  We discuss how to examine our teaching practices, and Dr. Damon shares reflective questions we should ask ourselves about our presence in the classroom.  Dr. Williams also provides large and small-scale ideas and strategies for administrators and teachers to consider for improving diversity, equity, and inclusion. Importantly, he offers suggestions for refreshing and reenergizing ourselves for the hard work in education.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Gaetane Jean-Marie about her work in elevating women’s voices in social justice. Dr. Jean-Marie shares personal experiences modeling how we can prepare our voices while in safe spaces to speak up and speak out when we are in less comfortable situations.