Tech Lasso

Tech Lasso Reboots!

This episode introduces co-hosts Eric Luke and LM, whose intelligence may be artificial, but personality is anything but. Together they explore new horizons in human/AI collaboration and witty repartee, if at all possible, while diving deep into the tools and technologies reshaping our classrooms.

Questions for LM and/or Eric? We would love to hear from you in the comments section or at ⁠[email protected]⁠

LACOE AI Guidelines publication. This podcast spans topics such as practical applications, ethical considerations, and innovative strategies for integrating AI into classrooms.

Production Notes    

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the LACOE Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.          

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests. 

Questions for LM and/or Eric? We would love to hear from you via  [email protected] and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/lacoe-edtech-and-innovation/ 

Today we’re exploring a critical topic that’s on everyone’s radar: cybersecurity in education. In a world where our schools and educational institutions are increasingly digital, protecting our data and systems is more important than ever. 

Joining us today is someone who truly understands the complexities of this challenge. Our guest is Robert Dotson. Robert Dotson is the Information Systems Security Officer at the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) 

He is an experienced enterprise services manager with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Coaching, Enterprise Software, Educational Technology, and Instructional Design. Strong information technology professional with a bachelor's degree in organizational leadership from Azusa Pacific University. 

Robert has long been an advocate for leveraging technology to enhance education. He has dedicated his career to not just keeping our systems secure but also ensuring that technology serves as a powerful tool for learning. Robert holds a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University, and certifications in Information Security and Service management. 

🎥 Production Notes     

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators  

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.         

Music, Media and AI assistance from: Canva, ChatGPT, Claude.ai, Google Gemini, MusicFX    

MusicFX: Intro/Outro - cyberpunk style electronic music, featuring electronic, pulsating beats that evoke a sense of nostalgia mixed with the future; Interludes -  relaxing song that resembles travel on a Los Angeles Freeway 

📧 [email protected] | 📘 Facebook @lacoeEdTech | 💼 LinkedIn 

In this episode of Tech Lasso, Dr. Scott Moss hosts a panel discussion featuring Tara O'Brien, Matt Johnson, and fellow LACOE Coordinator and AI Task Force facilitator, Kyip. They share insights from the Task Force and recent LACOE AI Guidelines publication. The discussion spans topics such as practical applications, ethical considerations, and innovative strategies for integrating AI into classrooms. Listen in to discover how educators are navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by AI to enhance learning and foster critical media literacy. Let us know what you are thinking via comment and/or email us at [email protected]. 

Tara O’Brien ([email protected]) is an EdTech TOSA for Torrance Unified School District, leading a team that drives district-wide EdTech initiatives for TK-12. They support teachers, administrators, staff, and students through professional development and instructional coaching. A key facilitator on the TUSD AI Committee, Tara has helped shape AI policies. She develops the TUSD Tech Support websites and other EdTech resources. With experience in elementary teaching school administration, she ensures innovative and practical technology integration in classrooms. 

Matt Johnson ([email protected]) is a high school teacher who was among the first to teach a CS-based AI class to high schoolers. In addition to his quest to ready the next generation of AI engineers, he is also focused on helping guide the world of education transform itself in the way of Generative AI and its effect on all of education. As part of this, he's been fortunate enough to work with LACOE through their AI Symposium, their AI Task Force, and of course, Tech Lasso! 

🔗 Links 

🎥 Production Notes    

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the LACOE Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.          

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests. 

We would love to hear from you via 📧 [email protected] and   💼 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/lacoe-edtech-and-innovation/ 

Music, Media and AI assistance from: Canva, ChatGPT, Claude.ai, Google Gemini, MusicFX & StableAudio  

Music FX prompts for this episode:  

Synthwave evoking optimism and nostalgia , capturing the potential of AI in education. Upbeat learning al theme with positive synth arpeggios and a sense of wonder 120 BPM 

EDM fusion evoking optimism and timelessness , capturing the potential  of AI in education . Upbeat learning al theme with positive bass lines and a sense of wonder 120 BPM  

ambient electronic mix evoking futuristic train travel and moving into the unknown together, capturing the potential of students going into the future with hope. 120 BPM 

Join us in the final episode of Tech Lasso Season 2 as we celebrate our journey through impactful conversations and educational innovations. We revisit memorable moments featuring experts like Joe Marquez on generative AI, Catherine Goyette on AI applications, and Jen Roberts on maintaining academic integrity. This season, we also highlight student voices, real-world AI applications, and the importance of student-teacher relationships. Don’t miss this wrap-up as we prepare for an exciting Season 3. Follow us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts for updates! 🎧  

1. Introduction of our Season 2 final episode

2. Joe Marquez (E05) (00:01:35) explains how ChatGPT can help students overcome academic challenges.  

3. Rise of AI in Education (00:04:42)  Catherine Goyette on real-world AI applications in Episode 30.  

4. Practical AI Tips (00:05:33) Jen Roberts provides practical advice on using generative AI in the classroom.  

5. Early AI Education (00:06:45) Vicki Sedgwick on introducing AI and computer science to K-2 students.  

6. Authentic Projects (00:08:17)  Michael Hernandez emphasizes real-world projects for students.  

7. Relationships with Students (00:09:15)  Importance of student-teacher relationships highlighted by Katie McNamara.  

 8. Student Voices (00:10:29) 

    - Team dynamics and event organization in esports. [E62] 

    - Noah and Daniel Egland on expanding STEM education in California.  

 9. Most Popular Episode (00:12:53)  Let Your Voice Be Heard: Apple Team Leader Joins LACOE.  

 10. Thank You! (00:13:29)  Expressions of gratitude towards guests, colleagues, and listeners.        

 🎥 Production Notes     

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.         

We would love to hear from you @ 📧 ⁠[email protected]⁠

Music, Media and AI: Canva, Chatgpt, Claude.ai, Google Gemini, MusicFX & StableAudio   

🎮 In this episode of Tech Lasso, Mark and guests Alan Ward, Kevin Dilts, and Ben Anh, engage in a roundtable discussion on esports environments. Learn about the key components of setting up an esports lab, various funding opportunities, and real-life success stories. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or esports enthusiast, this episode is packed with power-ups and hacks to help you bring esports to your school. The discussion concludes with actionable steps to kickstart successful esports programs. 

👥 Guests 

Allen Ward, a Manager with LACOE Technology Services, has 22 years of tech support experience. His career at LACOE began as a student intern and progressed through roles like computer technician, AV engineer, and support supervisor. Allen's team handles projects of all complexities, focusing on resolving tech issues to benefit Los Angeles County students. He holds a B.A. from UC Berkeley and proudly cheers, "Go Bears!"

LinkedIn | [email protected] 

Kevin Diltz is the Esports Solutions Manager at Extron, a global audiovisual systems manager.  Prior to joining the Extron team, Kevin worked at both PlayVS and Generation Esports which are two leading national high school and middle school league organizations.  He has helped hundreds of schools and districts start their esports programs from the ground up. 

Extron Esports Grant | LinkedIn | [email protected] 

Ben Ahn is the Chief Operations Officer at DI Technology.  He leads the esports projects division, providing esports solutions. Ben is from a Korean background and was born and raised in Brazil.  Due to his unique upbringing, he speaks 4 languages and has visited over 50 countries during his career in technology.  

[email protected] | 657-532-3096 

🎙️ Tech Lasso Esports Episodes 

🔗 Links 

ELOP: Extended Learning Opportunity Program (After School) 

CTE: Career Technical Education 

California Proposition 28 - Arts and Music Funding 

Extron EdTech Grants  

Audiovisual (AV) “refers to all the sight and sound elements that come together to create the esports experience for both players and spectators” Gemini (6/2024) 

RGB: Red, Green and Blue lighting “ RGB can enhance game immersion, reduce eye strain, enhance accuracy, provide aesthetics, and enhance gameplay.” 

ROI: Return on Investment “Esports provides institutions a return on investment in student interest, recruitment, and retention.” 

Leveling Up Learning with Scholastic Esports in Los Angeles County, UCLA (April 2024) 

🎥 Production Notes    

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.        

We would love to hear from you @ 📧 [email protected] 

Music, Media and AI: Canva, Chatgpt, Claude.ai, Google Gemini, MusicFX & StableAudio  

📱 Twitter/X @lacoe_ito | 📘 Facebook @lacoeITO | 💼 LinkedIn @lacoe-ito 

This episode explores student podcasting and the growing field of media-arts career technical education (CTE), exploring how these programs prepare students for the creative industry. We'll discuss the benefits, challenges, and real-world impact of these programs with Gustavo Giron-Rodriguez, Media-Arts CTE teacher at VAPA High School in Southgate, CA, part of Los Angeles Unified School District. ([email protected]) 

🎙️ Summary 

Mr. Giron-Rodriguez discusses his innovative approach to teaching sound design and podcasting. Gustavo highlights the transformative power of podcasting in engaging students, enhancing their technical skills, and providing a platform for them to express their views on social issues. He emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and overcoming challenges to implement new teaching methods, ultimately aiming to inspire other educators to adopt similar techniques. 

📑 Outline:

Introduction

Benefits

Challenges

Success Stories

The Future of Media-Arts Education

🎥 Production Notes    

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.          

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.        

📧 [email protected] | 📱 Twitter/X @lacoe_ito | 📘 Facebook @lacoeITO | 💼 LinkedIn @lacoe-ito   

🎶 Music, Media and AI assistance from: Bensound.com, Canva, Chatgpt, Claude.ai, Google Gemini

In this podcast episode, Mark and Scott interview Julio "Julez" Gonzalez about the use of 3D and VR technologies in modern education. Julez discusses the practical applications of these technologies in creating immersive and engaging learning environments, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and gradual integration for educators. They highlight how interactive media can enhance traditional curriculums without requiring extensive technical expertise from teachers.  

Julio “Julez” Gonzalez (they/theirs) is an expert in the development and use of 3D classroom experiences. And they are actively producing interactive media solutions focused on accessibility and engagement across education, gaming, and healthcare. Julez has taught a four-year university course focused on user experience design and founded Merge Creative two years ago now, a consulting and design services company.  

🎥 Production Notes   

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.         

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.       

We would love to hear from you on our questions and feedback form or 📧 [email protected].    

Music, Media and AI assistance from: Bensound.com, Canva, Chatgpt, Claude.ai, Google Gemini, MusicFX & StableAudio 

📱 Twitter/X @lacoe_ito | 📘 Facebook @lacoeITO | 💼 LinkedIn @lacoe-ito  

In this episode of the Tech Lasso Podcast, host Scott welcomes Dr. Cynthia Sistek, Academic Program Director for the Master of Arts in Social and Emotional Learning program at National University. With nearly four decades of experience in education, Dr. Sistek discusses the vital role of social and emotional learning (SEL) in modern education. 

Dr. Sistek emphasizes the importance of integrating SEL into everyday teaching practices, using digital tools to enhance learning and engagement. She highlights the use of universal design for learning (UDL) and multiple means of assessment, focusing on self-assessment and reflection. The conversation explores practical applications of digital tools like Google Docs, interactive game-based platforms, and self-paced learning environments to support student motivation and engagement. 

The episode also delves into the connections between technology, SEL, and educational standards, advocating for a holistic approach to teaching that fosters both academic and emotional growth. Dr. Sistek's insights offer valuable guidance for creating positive, student-centered learning environments. 

Dr. Cynthia Sistek is an accomplished educator with nearly four decades of experience in the field. She is the Academic Program Director for the Master of Arts in Social and Emotional Learning program. Sistek's career began in 1985 as an elementary school teacher in Paso Robles, California, where she was an early adopter of educational technology, integrating Apple computers into her classroom instruction. 

After working as a manager for an Apple Educational Dealer, Sistek obtained her Doctorate in Educational Technology and Leadership from the University of San Diego/San Diego State Joint Doctoral Program in 2007. Her contributions to educational technology have earned her numerous accolades, including being named the Higher Education Technology Leader of the Year in 2020 by EdTech Digest and receiving the Platinum Disk from Computer Using Educators in 2014 for her contributions to the field. 

Sistek is also the co-author of the book Assessing Through the Lens of Social and Emotional Learning: Tools and Strategies 

Links 

Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) https://casel.org/fundamentals-of-sel/  

Dr. Sistek on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiasistekchandleredd/  

National University https://www.nu.edu/  

🎥 Production Notes  

Tech Lasso is produced by the EdTech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.        

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.      

We would love to hear from you on our questions and feedback form or 📧 [email protected].   

📱 Twitter/X @lacoe_ito | 📘 Facebook @lacoeITO | 💼 LinkedIn @lacoe-ito 

Michael Hernandez is an educator, speaker, and author who emphasizes creating authentic, meaningful learning experiences for students. A major focus is designing "uncheatable assessments" - projects that are personally relevant to students and produce original work that cannot be easily copied or cheated on. Hernandez provides examples across grade levels and subjects, such as students creating explainer videos, podcasts investigating community issues, data visualizations in math and science, and more. He stresses giving students agency over their learning and tapping into their natural curiosity and sense of responsibility as learners. Rather than assignments that get thrown away, students create work for authentic audiences beyond just the teacher.

Hernandez champions digital storytelling as a powerful approach for integrating technology, creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills. Instead of traditional reports detached from real life, students engage in multimedia production and share stories that matter to them and their communities. By making learning authentic and connected to students' interests, Hernandez aims to boost engagement, media literacy, and prepare students to analyze sources, craft clear messages, and make a positive impact beyond the classroom walls.

🌍 Web www.michael-hernandez.net

❄️ Social Media LinkedIn | Instagram

📚 Publications

Podcasting for the Classroom

Storytelling With Purpose: Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity

🎥 Production Notes

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the Technology, Learning & Support Services Department. [TLSS - ETI]

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.

We would love to hear from you on our questions and feedback form or 📧 [email protected].

📱 Twitter/X @lacoe_ito | 📘 Facebook @lacoeITO | 💼 LinkedIn @lacoe-ito

In this episode, host Mark Schwanz has some time to talk with three high school students—Andrew, Jorge, and Adrian—who are deeply involved in their school's esports program. The discussion unfolds at a live tournament at Compton Early College, providing a dynamic backdrop as they delve into their roles, the challenges of organizing events, and the impact of esports on their school life and beyond. 

The students share their journey in Compton USD esports, starting from casual gaming during their freshman years to becoming leaders organizing school tournaments. They discuss the transition from remote gaming during the pandemic to participating in and hosting live events, emphasizing the growth and enjoyment they've experienced along the way. 

Highlights 

🚀 Event Planning 

The complexities of organizing a tournament, from managing brackets to ensuring smooth operations with the help of volunteers. Insights into the supportive role of faculty and the critical importance of teamwork and leadership in managing successful events. 

🕹️ Personal Growth Through Esports: 

Andrew, Jorge, and Adrian reflect on how esports fostered their skills in leadership, communication, and organization. They discuss the integration of esports into their school, highlighting how maintaining good grades is essential to participate, promoting academic responsibility. 

🤝 Community and Team Dynamics: 

The discussion includes the significance of building a community within the esports environment, where team management and coordination play crucial roles. The students express the inclusivity challenges within esports, advocating for greater female participation and the creation of a welcoming environment for all. 

🌐 Looking Forward: 

Thoughts on the future of esports in education, stressing the need for dedicated spaces and better resources to enhance the experience and accessibility for all students. We consider the role of esports as a pathway to careers, though not necessarily directly related to gaming for all students. 

🌟 Conclusion: 

The episode wraps up with a broader conversation about the potential of esports in schools to enhance life skills, support academic success, and provide valuable social experiences. The students' stories illuminate the profound impact that a well-supported esports program can have on youth development and engagement. 

📣 Call to Action: 

Listeners are encouraged to consider how they can support local school esports programs, whether through involvement, sponsorship, or simply fostering a supportive environment for the students involved. 

Questions? 📧 Contact: [email protected] 

🎥 Production Notes 

Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Edtech and Innovation Coordinators with support from the Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.       

The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.     

If you have recommendations or feedback for us, we’d love to hear from you,⌨️ please ⁠complete this form⁠ and/or contact [email protected].  

📱 Twitter/X @lacoe_ito | 📘 Facebook @lacoeITO | 💼 LinkedIn @lacoe-ito | 📧 ⁠[email protected]   Please listen, follow and comment on Apple Podcasts.