The Inquiry Oasis: A UArizona College of Education Podcast

In this episode of the Inquiry Oasis, host Jeffrey Anthony sits down with Dr. Sunggye Hong, a leading faculty member at the University of Arizona's College of Education, who is breaking new ground in the realm of accessible science education for the visually impaired. Dr. Hong elucidates the transformative possibilities that lie at the intersection of assistive technology, multisensory approaches, and STEM curricula. Their conversation takes us on a journey from the barriers of traditional educational paradigms to the frontiers of inclusivity, revealing how Dr. Hong's work is not merely about accommodation, but about redefining the very fabric of educational experiences. Tune in to discover an inspiring narrative that challenges us to think differently about the role of technology and sensory diversity in shaping a more equitable academic landscape.

• The Evolution of Assistive Technology
• The Significance of Multisensory Learning
• The Role of Planetary Science in Inclusive Education
• Navigating the Barriers to Accessibility in STEM
• The Impact of High Expectations on Students with Visual Impairments
• Dr. Hong's Personal Journey and Motivations
• Community Benefits of Inclusive Research at the University of Arizona
• Future Horizons: Dr. Hong's Vision for Assistive Technologies

• Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law by Haben Girma

In this captivating episode of the Inquiry Oasis we explore the fascinating journey of Dr. Corey Knox. Dr. Knox, newly appointed as the Deputy Director at the University of Arizona’s Astrobiology Center, shares her unique trajectory from education researcher to her role in this new center. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Knox illuminates the profound ways in which science interacts with local communities and cultures and reveals the interconnectedness of astrobiology with urgent global issues such as climate change. Knox’s reflections on her time at the College of Education and its vibrant community are as enriching as her insights into education as a tool for liberation. This episode is a must-listen for those intrigued by the confluence of science, education, and social equity.

Topics Discussed:

• The mission and vision of the University of Arizona's Astrobiology Center
• Interdisciplinary nature of astrobiology: Combining astronomy, biology, humanities, and indigenous knowledge
• Relevance of astrobiology to understanding and addressing climate change
• Connecting astrobiology discoveries with lived human experiences across cultures
• The foundational role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in astrobiology and education
• Incorporating Tucson's local community histories and innovative practices in educational initiatives
• Educators as facilitators: Bridging various disciplines in the university
• Influence and significance of Dr. Knox's recommended readings on her worldview
• Education as a tool for individual and societal liberation: Insights from 'Pedagogy of the Oppressed'

Books:

• Life on Other Planets: A Memoir of Finding My Place in the Universe by Aomawa Shields
• Pedagogy of the Oppressed by Paulo Freire

In this episode of The Inquiry Oasis, host Jeffrey Anthony speaks with Dr. Valerie Shirley and Dr. Jeremy Garcia, co-founding directors of the Indigenous Teacher Education Program (ITEP) at the University of Arizona College of Education. The discussion meticulously dissects the ITEP framework, philosophy, and its consequential impact on Indigenous students, schools, and communities. Exploring topics that range from the program's origins to its broader socio-cultural implications, the episode weaves a compelling narrative that underscores the need for culturally attuned and community-based approaches in education.

Topics Discussed

• Indigenous Epistemologies: The Knowledge Systems Guiding ITEP
• Philosophical Underpinnings: The Ideological Foundation of ITEP
• Cultural and Community Context: ITEP's Grounding in Indigenous Communities
• The Role of Ceremonies and Cultural Practices in Indigenous Education
• Intersecting Identities: Navigating Multiple Cultural Spaces in Education
• The Pedagogical Journey: Academic Paths and Influences of Drs. Shirley and Garcia
• ITEP's Impact and Future: Addressing Challenges and Charting New Directions

Recommended Books

• Indigenous Methodologies: Characteristics, Conversations, and Contexts by Margaret Kovach
• Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies, Teaching and Learning for justice, Justice in a Changing World by Django Paris
• Red Pedagogy: Native American Social and Political Thought by Sandy Grande

Embark on a fascinating journey into the realm of early childhood robotics with Dr. Sung eun Jung, an early childhood educator and researcher specializing in robotics education at the University of Arizona College of Education. In this episode, we explore the existential and ontological questions young children pose about robots, the cultural implications of programming, and the future of culturally responsive STEM teaching and learning. Dr. Sung’s insights into children's agency, empowerment, and the importance of hands-on interaction offer a profound look into how technology can shape children's understanding of the world. This episode provides an invaluable perspective for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, education, and child development.

Topics Discussed:

• The philosophical inquiries of children in relation to robots
• The cultural norms and values embedded in robot programming
• The future vision for early childhood robotics and STEM education
• Culturally responsive pedagogy and community engagement
• The importance of agency in children's interaction with technology
• The connection between pedagogy and equity for marginalized children
• The role of early childhood educators in shaping robotic education

Books Discussed:

Good Guys Don't Wear Hats": Children's Talk About The Media by Joseph Tobin

Learn more:

https://coe.arizona.edu/ 

Join us in this enlightening episode of The Inquiry Oasis: A Uarizona College of Education Podcast as we delve into the expansive world of STEM education with Dr. Heather Haeger, research director for the STEM Learning Center. Dr. Haeger shares her insights into equity, diversity, and the importance of inclusive environments in STEM fields. From bridging the boundaries between STEM and the humanities to exploring the intricate connections between disciplines, this episode reveals the transformative potential of collaborative research. An essential listen for those passionate about education, diversity, and innovative thinking.

Topics Discussed:

• Equity, diversity, and inclusivity in field research experiences
• The importance of safety and support in research environments
• The significance of diversity and equity in STEM for global community
• Interconnectedness of STEM with arts and humanities
• The concept of haunting in institutional racism and white supremacy
• Students' experiences in field research: both positive and negative
• The economic impact of inclusion and exclusion in STEM fields

Book Discussed”

"Weaving an Otherwise: In-relations Methodological Practice" by Dr. Amanda Tashjian and Z Nicolazzo

Learn more:

https://coe.arizona.edu/ 

Join us in this insightful episode of the Inquiry Oasis as we journey through the transformative research of Dr. Ashley D. Domínguez, a faculty member at the University of Arizona, College of Education. Dr. Domínguez unravels her summer research work in Puerto Rico, merging education with youth activism, and the potent influences of art, theater, and culture on community building and learning. Her work, from training students in research methods to fostering community rejuvenation, sheds light on the empowering potential of education. Dr. Domínguez  also brings to light the intricate dynamics of protagonists and antagonists in storytelling and the unique role of arts-based research tools in her work through the experiences she gained at the Pedagogy and the Theater of the Oppressed workshop she attended this summer. We also explore the University of Arizona designation as a Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) and the transformative opportunities this provides for researchers at UArizona. An essential listen for those interested in the intersection of education, art, culture, and social activism.

Topics Discussed:

• Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR)
• The role of theater, art, and culture in enhancing learning experiences
• Dr. Dominguez’s trajectory in youth activism and education research
• Teaching research methods to University of Puerto Rico, Cayey undergraduates
• The transformative role of arts-based research tools
• Research Impacts of Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI)
• The concept of transformational resistance in youth activism
• The power of education as a tool for societal change and empowerment

Paper Recommendation:

Examining Transformational Resistance Through a Critical Race and Latcrit Theory Framework by Daniel Solorzano and Delgado Bernal, 2001

Books Discussed:

• Theater of the Oppressed 
• Pedagogy of the Oppressed

In this episode of Inquiry Oasis, host Jeffrey Anthony converses with Dr. Regina Deil-Amen, the newly appointed Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs for the College of Education at the University of Arizona, and a distinguished scholar championing inclusive education within the STEM field. The dialogue illuminates the multifaceted landscape of empowering diverse and underrepresented students, with Dr. Deil-Amen shedding light on the unique challenges faced by low-income students and the intricacies of racial and ethnic diversity. Exploring concepts such as a transfer receptive culture and the intersection of racial dynamics in STEM, the conversation articulates a vision for a future marked by compassion and innovation. Listen as they uncover inspiring viewpoints, laying the groundwork for a more equitable and inclusive STEM community.

Topics Discussed

• STEM Identity: Understanding the Culture and Challenges
• Inclusive Education: A New Paradigm in STEM
• The Interplay of Race and Ethnicity in STEM Communities
• Transcending Conventional Barriers in STEM Education
• The Nexus of Innovation, Compassion, and Inclusivity in STEM
• Pioneering Approaches: The NSF S-STEM Grant and Beyond

Books/Papers Discussed

• "Power to Transfer: Critical Race Theory and a Transfer Receptive Culture," by Dr. Jain, Dr. Melendez, and Dr. Herrera
• "Black, Brown, Bruised: How Racialized STEM Education Stifles Innovation," by Dr. Ebony McGee 

In this inaugural episode of "Inquiry Oasis," host Jeffrey Anthony welcomes Dean Berry, a distinguished researcher and advocate in mathematics education and Dean of the College of Education at the University of Arizona. Dean Berry shares valuable insights from his extensive research, focusing on the experiences and empowerment of black boys in K12 mathematics classrooms. In this context, Berry thoughtfully explains his purposeful use of the term 'boy,' underlining it as a developmentally appropriate descriptor acknowledging their need for mentorship and support, while simultaneously challenging prevailing narratives. The conversation dives deep into the importance of supportive learning environments, the impact of high-leverage teaching practices, and the surprising outcomes from his community-centered program, M-SCAN. Dean Berry also discusses the broader implications of his work, emphasizing the necessity for the STEM fields to genuinely embrace diversity and adapt to the evolving identities that accompany it. This episode underscores the brilliance of black children in mathematics and emphasizes the transformative power of assuming and nurturing this brilliance in educational practices.

Topics Discussed:

• Empowering black boys in mathematics education
• Creating supportive classroom environments
•  High-leverage teaching practices
• Community-centered educational initiatives (M-SCAN)
• Fluid racial identities in biracial students
•  Diversity in the STEM fields
•  Challenges in increasing diversity in STEM
•  Importance of assuming brilliance in black children
•  Role of teachers and administrators in fostering student engagement
•  The impact of mentorship in educational development

Book recommendation:

The Brilliance of Black Children in Mathematics: Beyond the Numbers and Toward New Discourse 

Welcome to "The Inquiry Oasis", a bi-monthly podcast presented by the University of Arizona College of Education. Join us as we shine a spotlight on our faculty members, offering them a platform to discuss their impactful research in areas such as educational psychology, teacher education, and school leadership, among others. 

From their personal journeys and motivations to the transformative effects their work has on lives both locally and globally, we offer a window into the multifaceted world of education research. Recorded in our Digital Innovation and Learning Lab, each episode explores the dynamic blend of cultures and ideas inspiring our faculty's research.

Join us on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month for insightful conversations that unpack the power and potential of education. Whether you're an educator, a student, or a lifelong learner, "The Inquiry Oasis" is your go-to source for gaining a deeper understanding of the passion, drive, and innovation at the heart of education. 

Discover more at: 

https://coe.arizona.edu/