In this podcast episode, we discuss competence. We know that children are inherently capable, so we discuss our role in championing students as sense makers. We are joined by Dr. Corey Drake who has some powerful reminders about the importance of recognizing and valuing diverse ways children demonstrate understanding, rather than just focusing on what they can't do. Our conversation underscores the need for educators to shift their mindset to believe in all students' competence and provide multiple avenues for them to showcase their learning.
This is Part 1 of a 2 part episode.





Intro Music:
David Biedenbender
Other Music:
Hyunwoo Kim from Pixabay

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This week we are resharing episodes recorded last fall. Julie and I are heading to Iceland this week with Dr. Tracy Donahue. We thought that resharing these episodes was the perfect way for us to reintroduce Tracy and her work to you all. During a season that is all about agency- Tracy’s work considers this all through the lens of play. As an early childhood educator not early childhood education faculty member, we first partners with Tracy at this intersection of play and agency. If you're interested in what we're up to in Iceland, this would be the perfect week to follow us on social media. We'll be sharing updates in stories and posts.

About the episode: Our second episode with Tracy Donohue. In this episode, we further our discussion on play and it's integral role in development and it's place in schools. This is a continuation of our discussion from a previous episode- we recommend you start your listening journey there.

Intro Music: David Biedenbender

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So this semester we are focusing on agency. We’re interested in taking a deeper look at the foundational beliefs and ideas that shape our classrooms. One way that we are doing this offline in through a partnership with Dr. Tracy Donahue. You’ll more about her in a minute, as we reshare a conversation with had with her last fall. We’ve never repeated a podcast episode before, but this week felt like the right time as our grant work with Tracy has us researching what education is like outside of Michigan- specifically play. We’ll be traveling with Tracy next week to Iceland to explore several outdoor preschools, Reggio Emilia schools, forest schools, and fully inclusive schools and more. To say that we are excited is an understatement. We’ll take you along for our adventure, sharing updates on social media and longer reflections in upcoming episodes. So, while we’re packing, take a minute to introduce yourself to our colleague Tracy and learn more about why we think Play is foundational to agency and belongs in the classroom.

About the episode: Today we're talking with Dr. Tracy Donohue. Join our guest as they reflect on their professional experiences and how they have prepared them to work with teacher education students who are learning to teach through play. As you listen, we invite you to also reflect on the background you bring to education, how you value play and what you would be willing to investigate to challenge yourself in these areas.

Introduction Music: David Biedenbender

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The podcast discusses the importance of agency in education and how the physical environment, routines, and intentional choices can encourage or discourage student agency. We share examples from our experiences in the makerspace, our classrooms, and other informal settings.

We highlight the importance of carefully designing the learning environment, both physically and procedurally, to empower students and foster their sense of ownership and independence.

Intro Music: David Biedenbender
Other Music: Vitaly Vakulenko from Pixabay

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We're back for another seasion of Teach Wonder, and we are exploring the concept of "agency" in education - the idea of giving students more choice, control, and ownership over their learning. We discuss how agency is often talked about in education, but can be challenging to implement effectively We share examples from their own experiences, like in a makerspace setting, where they had to rethink how they structured activities to promote agency. Overall, our discussion focuses on the nuances and complexities of fostering true student agency, beyond just giving choices, and the hosts aim to have an in-depth exploration of the topic over the course of this seasion.

Links
Maker-Centered Learning


Intro Music: David Biedenbender
Other Music: Olexy from Pixabay

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In this episode of our series, Form Theory to Practice, we delve into the invaluable role of community in the teaching profession, featuring Sarah Lapp, a passionate math teacher and alumna of CMU. Whether you're a new teacher navigating the early stages of your career or a seasoned veteran seeking fresh inspiration, Sarah shares insightful perspectives on how community support shapes the teaching journey.

Join us as we explore the dynamic interplay between theory and practice in education, highlighting the transformative impact of fostering connections within the teaching community.

Intro Music:
David Biedenbender

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In this episode of "From Theory to Practice," we talk with Maddie Birgin. As a former STEM Education scholar and current math teacher, Maddie brings a unique perspective to teaching and getting involved with the school community.

Throughout our conversation, Maddie shared insights into the challenges of managing large groups of students with varying expectations. She discussed strategies for engaging reluctant math students, highlighting the importance of creativity and adaptability in teaching methodologies.

One of the key takeaways from our discussion was Maddie's passion for staying involved in her school community. Despite the inevitable obstacles faced by educators, Maddie's commitment to making a difference in the lives of her students shines through. She emphasized the importance of building relationships and fostering a supportive learning environment.

Links
Summer Teacher Professional Development

Intro Music: David Biedenbender
Other Music: Pixabay

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In our series, "From Theory to Practice," we're thrilled to reconnect with some of our CMU Alumni, who we got to know through out STEM Education Scholar Program. Today, we shine the spotlight on Sara Fitzpatrick, a former math teacher and current school counselor.

Links:
From Theory to Practice: Bailey Birman (STEM Education Scholars Series 1)
From Theory to Practice: Ryan Stevens (STEM Education Scholar Series 2)

Intro Music: David Biedenbender

Music by Artem Hramushkin from Pixabay
Music by Jeremiah Alves from Pixabay

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