The Teachercast Podcast

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we take a look at some pretty awesome “Unplugged EdTech” in the form of interactive whiteboards known as mcSquares. For the last year, I have been a big fan of mcSquares and have actually been using them to teach the EduTriplets how to write their names. The simple yet durable form factor of mcSquares makes it not only easy to use in class, but very easy to store away when not in use. There are several things that you can do each day with your mcSquares from basic writing and drawing activities to complex programming and coding planograms with your students.  In this episode, you will learn 3 ways to use http://www.mcsquares.com (mcSquares) in the classroom. Elementary SchoolOne of the easiest ways to use mcSquares is as a simple dry erase board. Both version 1 and 2 are built from combining a front and a back form surrounding a sheet of paper. This paper can be interchanged with anything you wish to use as a template for whatever project y

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Jill King from the Cartoon Network and Champika Fernando from the Scratch team to discuss why it is critical to be teaching STEM and coding skills to children of all ages. Topics DiscussedHow is the Cartoon Network reaching students worldwide? Where can parents learn more about the Cartoon Network? What is Scratch and how can students learn coding and programming skills? Why is it important that we address the gender gap in STEM education? http://csforallconsortium.org (CSForAll Summit) About Cartoon Networkhttp://www.cartoonnetwork.com ()Cartoon Network is more than an animation station – it’s a technology-enabled multiplatform entertainment powerhouse that fosters kids’ creativity with engaging shows; mobile, online, console and VR games; toys; and even coding tutorials. Each of these platforms incorporates educational components that support Gen Z’s creativity in 24/7 environments through problem-solving, critical thinking and self-expression. A

http://www.padcaster.com ()In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with one of the founders of the Padcaster, Josh Apter to discuss educational video production and how your school can create an extremely professional video product using the Padcaster. For the last few months, I have been using the Padcaster not only to upgrade my home studio but to give me a portable solution to record in classrooms and conferences. Simply put, the Padcaster is the perfect solution for any school looking to create morning announcements, live broadcasts, or record athletic events. This fall, Padcaster will be releasing several new products that I think will continue to revolutionize and simplify video production. https://www.padcaster.com/product/padcaster-verse/ (One of these is the new Padcaster VERSE,) a complete solution to turn your mobile phone into a “mobile media powerhouse”. In today's podcast, Josh shows us how the VERSE is not only a dynamic stand and equipment holder for your phone, i

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Mike Soules and Dr. Sonja-Hollins Alexander from Corwin to discuss a recent survey of more than 6300 educators on the state of professional development in schools today. Together, we discuss the 7 standards of professional learning and how they were used to guide today's professional learning environments. Topics discussed on the show include The 7 Standards of Professional Learning What is Professional Learning? 4 Findings of the Survey Teachers report that leaders in their schools and systems are committed to professional learning. Teachers report that their schools use student achievement data to plan professional learning, but they don't use a variety of data to assess its effectiveness. Teachers do not appear to be deeply involved in decisions about their own professional learning. Teachers report that they are not provided adequate time during the school day to follow up on their professional learning by practicing and applying new skills

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we sit down with Rick Fredkin from Eduporium. http://www.eduporium.com (Eduporium is) a marketplace that acts similar to Amazon, yet is focused on providing school districts a direct, purchase order friendly way of bringing in STEM and Makerspace items into their schools. About EduporiumEduporium is a school partner that views technology as a fundamental literacy in the 21st century. We work directly with teachers, schools, districts, libraries, and makerspaces to provide them with meaningful and discounted technologies that enhance experiential learning and help students develop crucial 21st-century skills. Cooperative partnerships help us expand schools’ access to STEAM technologies, increase the affordability of educational tools, and enable us to customize tech bundles and activities for all grade levels. Our services include educator discounts, customizable EdTech bundles, a Lending Library, and a Donation Program – all of which are designed to increa

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Eric Li from http://twitter.com/khanacademy (Khan Academy) to discuss LearnStorm 2017, a FREE six-week challenge that helps students build skills and mindsets to start the school year strong. About Khan AcademyKhan Academy is a nonprofit with a mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Today more than 55 million registered users access Khan Academy in dozens of languages from more than 190 countries. Khan Academy’s free online learning resources cover preschool through early college education, including K–12 math, grammar, biology, chemistry, physics, economics, finance, history, and SAT® prep. Khan Academy is the official practice partner for AP. Khan Academy gives teachers tools and data to help their students develop the skills, habits, and mindsets they need to succeed in school and beyond. And it’s all free, for everyone, forever. About our GuestEric Li, LearnStorm Lead for Khan Academy, is passionate about using educ

On today's episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Kat Kennewell and Phil Grigonis on the program to showcase the amazing https://www.teachercast.net/product/B01LFN22FG/US/teach00-20/?cart=y (Edison Robot) from Microbric. About Edison RobotsIn 2014, with only a tiny team based in South Australia, Microbric launched the Edison robot with a bang. The wildly successful Kickstarter campaign hit 524% funding and the popularity of Edison has only grown from there. The highly versatile and easy-to-use robot is now distributed globally and can be found in schools in more than 50 countries around the world. Microbric’s vision for the Edison robot is to create an affordable, comprehensive STEM teaching resource for coding and robotics education for students in years 3 – 9. To support this vision, users of Edison have access to free educational resources and programming apps. The Edison robot can be programmed multiple ways: using pre-set barcodes, EdWare, EdPy and now, EdBlocks. EdBlocks, the newest programming

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Dexter Industries on the program to showcase their new robot called http://www.dexterindusstries.com/dextered (GoPiGo), the world's best-selling https://www.teachercast.net/2016/04/22/ever-thought-teaching-pi-picademy-raspberrypi/ (Raspberry Pi) Robot. After listening to this episode, I highly recommend every teacher take advantage of two great opportunities: A FREE 45-day trial of GoPiGo in your classroom 10% off your next purchase of a GoPiGo kit by using the coupon code TEACHERCAST at checkout About Dexter IndustriesDexter Industries, an educational robotics company, develops robots that make learning about technology and programming more accessible to everyone. Dexter Industries is the maker of the world's bestselling Raspberry Pi robots like the GoPiGo, GrovePi and BrickPi. Links of Interesthttp://www.dexterindustries.com/dextered (Website: DexterIndustries.com) http://twitter.com/dexterind (Twitter: @DexterInd) http://Facebook.com/De

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome Dr. Sam Patterson of My Paperless Classroom and Todd Beard from Microsoft YouthSpark to discuss why Computer Science classes are vitally important for today's students. As technology has become an integral part of people’s daily lives around the world, we’re seeing a growing demand – from students, parents, teachers, governments, and nonprofits – to teach youth not only how to use technology, but also how to create technology to help them become the innovators and drivers of growth and opportunity in their communities. But what does this look like in the classroom? How do educators balance this new charge with other important content requirements? What is Microsoft YouthSpark?Microsoft YouthSpark is a global initiative to increase access for all youth to learn computer science, empowering them to achieve more for themselves, their families and their communities. Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/philanthropies/youthspark (https://www.micr

From Wonder Workshop, Dot and Dash are real robots that teach your kids to code while they play. By using one of a dozen free apps and an iPad or iPhone, you can make Dot and Dash sing, dance, and navigate around your house or classroom. Why Dot and Dash?Dash & Dot are real robots that teach your kids to code while they play. Using our free apps and a compatible tablet or smartphone, kids learn to code while they make Dash sing, dance and navigate all around the house. Sensors on the robot mean they react to the environment around them, including your kids. Connect with Wonder Workshophttps://twitter.com/wonderworkshop (Twitter) https://www.facebook.com/makewonder (Facebook) https://www.pinterest.com/makewonder1 (Pinterest) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZgluWgYIZ5k5EVHNUziTeQ/featured (YouTube) https://instagram.com/_wonderworkshop (Instagram) About our GuestCurrently, with 15 years of experience in education, Bryan L. Miller’s roles as a teacher and administrator in private and public education, K-1

On this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we welcome the Hardcore Closer Ryan Stewman on to discuss how he went from high school drop out to being a multi-time best selling author and entrepreneur. About RyanRyan Stewman, CEO and Founder of Hardcore Closer and Break Free Academy, is a 4x best-selling Author, Motivational Speaker, Sales Coach, Podcast Host, Blogger and all around Entrepreneur. He’s also a regular contributor to Forbes, Entrepreneur, Addicted2Success, Good Men Project, Lighter Side of Real Estate, Huffington Post, and more. Ryan is best known for consulting with alpha personality business owners on rapidly growing their sales through the use of strong marketing and advertising. With his no BS, ‘take action’ approach, Ryan has been able to help high income and high net worth performers make adjustments in their businesses that unleash windfall profits. In the day and age of sales trainers advertising their success by bragging about the private jets and expensive cars they’ve been able to purch

On May 2, 2017, I had the privilege of being invited to attend the https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-event-may-2017/ (#LEARNWHATSNEXT) keynote produced by Microsoft. The first of its kind during Microsoft Satya Nadella's tenure as CEO, the keynote revolved around education and what Microsoft thinks the classroom of the future should look like. More than 20 educators from across the world representing Pre-K through University studies were invited to attend and meet with representatives from the Education team to share their thoughts about how this new direction for Microsoft can be implemented in their classrooms. Establishing a Laser Focused Philosophy for the FutureThe keynote started off with Nadella telling the story of how his grandfather started his journey into education and helped his father become an educated man. It was a powerful story. “Talent is everywhere, but the opportunity is now”. “Today's event is about education and technology . . . more importantly, it is about empowering the

On today's episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, we take a look at the topic of the Gender Gap in STEM Education. For more information on this topic, please visit https://www.microsoft.com/about/philanthropies/youthspark/youthsparkhub/makewhatsnext/ (MakeWhatsNext.com). I would like to thank Microsoft Philanthropies and Microsoft Education for helping to set this episode up. What if she could be the one to find the cure, crack the code, or invent something that has the potential to save lives? When we encourage girls to pursue science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), we double the potential to solve problems. If she stays in STEM, she could be the one to change the world. Recent research shows that, on average, only 25% of tech jobs are held by women. If we really want to close the STEM gender gap, we must start early. In this conversation, join current and veteran classroom educators, who share concrete tips and best practices for encouraging girls’ interest in STEM subjects and helping them to

On this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with Microsoft Product Manager, Matt McGinnis to learn about Microsoft School Data Sync, the powerful free application that allows school districts to sync their student data directly from their Student Information System. If you are an IT Director or a Director of Technology, this is certainly the perfect show for you. During the show, Matt walks us through a typical school situation where School Data Sync is being used to create a seamless path from a SIS through a new application called Intune for Education so that teachers can have accurate class rosters, up to date OneNote Class Notebooks, and a dynamic and student-centered learning environment using the new Microsoft Classroom. For more informationhttp://www.microsoft.com/education (http://www.microsoft.com/education) http://sds.microsoft.com (http://sds.microsoft.com) https://aka.ms/sdsconfirmation (https://aka.ms/sdsconfirmation) http://aka.ms/intuneforedu (https://aka.ms/sdsconfirmation

On today's episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I welcome educator Dan Rezac from http://Tynker.com (Tynker.com) on to discuss STEM Education and how http://twitter.com/gotynker (Tynker) is offering educators a FREE professional development opportunity called the Blue Ribbon Educator Program. What is the Blue Ribbon Educator Program?If you are an educator interested in learning more about STEM education and are either currently working with students in a Computer Science program, or interested in starting a coding based program, the Blue Ribbon Educator Program is perfect for you. https://www.tynker.com/school/blue-ribbon/ (To apply check out their website today!) Applications will close April 20th, 2017. You will be asked to: Create a 1-minute video PSA with the theme “It's time to go beyond.” How do we make coding in schools an everyday literacy and practice? Be available for Premium Training on Friday, May 12th from 11 am – 3:30 pm ET. This online training, presented by coding masters, is designed

On today's podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Elementary Principal and ASCD Author Jennifer Schwanke to discuss her new book called “https://www.teachercast.net/product/1416622217/US/teach00-20/?cart=y (You're the Principal! Now What? Strategies and Solutions for New School Leaders).” I met Jennifer Schwanke on a recent ASCD book chat and was completely amazed at how similar the story of a new administrator can be to the story of a new Tech Coach. In most situations, you may be the only one in your position in a building, you have to keep your confidence with little opportunity to lean others for support, and you have to remember that no matter what happens during the day, it is the relationships you forge that will ultimately create a successful and long-lasting career. You Must Have Your Head Examined To Be A PrincipalOne of the things that amazed me about my conversation with Jennifer Schwanke was the constant reminder that, quite often, leadership is pointed out by others. Jen is n

In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with California educator and SMART Exemplary Educator Denesa Menge to discuss how she has created a fully immersive and interactive learning environment for her students, with the help of SMART Technologies. One of the most important things you can do with your students is to provide them an engaging, interactive learning environment. When students are active, they become attentive learners. By using tools such as SMART Interactive Boards along with SMART Amp software, students can become immersed in a different type of learning. About Danesa MengeDanesa Menge is a seventh and eighth-grade English language arts teacher at Oakdale Junior High School. She is passionate about learning and technology and shares that love with her students and fellow colleagues across the globe. Danesa holds a Master’s of Science in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. She is a SMART Exemplary Educator, a Google Certified Innovator, NovoAmbassador, and

Is your school district looking to make a change in it's Learning Management System, or Student Information System? Are you tired of getting recommendations based only on reading twitter and edtech blogs? In this episode of the TeacherCast Podcast, I sit down with Michael Winters and Molly Levitt from EdSurge to discuss their new service called EdSurge Concierge. Recently released and made available to school districts across the country, EdSurge Concierge allows School Districts a simple and personal, 1:1 consultation to speak with one of their technology integration experts to help you find exactly the application you need and put you in contact with that company to help you and your team provide the best learning environment for your students. According to EdSurge.com: EdSurge https://r.clb.pt/r/f38d0cebe75f2675cef301feac873bd7?d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.edsurge.com%2Fconcierge%2F (Concierge) is a free service that helps schools find the right technology to support their learning goals. Concie

Welcome to the TeacherCast Podcast. In this episode, Jeff sits down with the Executive Director of CSNYC, Michael Preston and Superintendent Jason Eitner to discuss why students of all ages should have a Computer Science infused curriculum. About CSNYChttps://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.csnyc.org&d=DQMFaQ&c=gOrgfQB8xVH7F0lP7MQhi8CyVXMBvYqNyP3LuSSb8Lw&r=C5EhJpDQOemW-U6ZscAHfCGXMa5_VEAMLAlztaSAie0&m=wtEF6bbH9KgeAF8yeUnWjcxs0Cvtm_ZQhwpwXPZ_W0s&s=iI-f5-Xy7gyLtAjXVBhCrlcFAIKuyXBBXS3j-1nkiGM&e= (CSNYC) is a nonprofit founded in 2013 to ensure that all of New York City’s 1.1 million public school students have access to a high-quality computer science (CS) education that puts them on a pathway to college and career success. To build thriving ecosystems for CS education in NYC and nationwide, CSNYC develops programming across four key areas: community development, teacher pipelines, industry engagement, and research. Together, work in these areas supports our partnersh

Welcome to the TeacherCast Podcast. In this episode, Jeff sits down with Microsoft Innovative Educator Steve Isaacs, and Minecraft Education Manager Neal Manegold to discuss how Minecraft Education Education is shifting the way our students are learning in classrooms around the world. What is Minecraft Education Edition?Minecraft: Education Edition is an open-world game that promotes creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in an immersive environment where the only limit is your imagination. Links of interestMinecraft http://education.minecraft.net/ (Minecraft Education) http://education.minecraft.net/ (Minecraft Educator Community) https://education.microsoft.com/minecraftmentors (Minecraft Mentors) https://t.co/AMIpD2ISZM (Minecraft Mentor Application) https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL41iJfA2iBPHyuNHpxsa80hJaXKvZDdWH (101 Ideas for Minecraft Learners) (Videos) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B36Ehzf2cxE (How to Survive your First Night of Minecraft) (Video) Hour of Code http:/