The Harvard EdCast

Lisa Henson, CEO of The Jim Henson Company, reflects on her father’s creation of the Muppets and the family company’s continuing impact on children’s learning with shows such as “Dinosaur Train” and “Sid the Science Kid.”

Martha L. Minow, dean of the Harvard Law School shares her thoughts on the convergence of education and law, her new book 'In Brown's Wake', and teaching a young Barack Obama.

Martin West, assistant professor of education at HGSE shares surprising new data on the public's perception of school reform.

U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Elizabeth Thompson discusses the role of education in sustainable development, an upcoming 'Earth Summit' in Rio, and life at the U.N.

Marian Wright Edelman, president and founder of the Children's Defense Fund reflects on her work defending the cause of children, her life and leadership, and preparing for countless commencement speeches over the years. Marian Wright Edelman has been an advocate for disadvantaged Americans for her entire professional life. Under her leadership, CDF has become the nation's strongest voice for chil...

Lisa henson edcast final by Harvard Graduate School of Education

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Professor Daniel Koretz, an expert in school testing, discusses inappropriate test prep in schools and how, unfortunately, there is little parents can do about it.

Lawrence Blum, author of the book "High Schools, Race, and America's Future" reflects on his experience teaching a rigorous high school course on race and racism.

Lee Hirsch, director of the documentary "Bully" shares stories of the film and explains why this subject is so personally important to him.

Martha Kanter, under secretary of education, U.S. Department of Education, shares progress of President Obama's 2020 College Graduation Goal and how to improve both college access and completion.

Kim Smith, co-founder and CEO of Bellwether Education Partners discusses incubating educational entrepreneurs, the role of business and education, and the importance of balancing work with family.

Joel Klein, former chancellor of NYC schools and CEO of Amplify, shares his story and his quest on incorporating innovation and technology into the classroom.

Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, shares insights into his unique style of teaching, the future of his work, and how he's dealing with celebrity.

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Gary Knell, President and CEO of Sesame Workshop, shares lessons from Sesame Street, why kids (and adults) still love it, and which Muppet he calls his favorite.

John E. Roberts, author of the book "Instructional Rounds in Action" reflects on how an invaluable guide of doing 'rounds' can provide a framework for systemic improvement in schools.

Thomas Kane, deputy director of education for the Gates Foundation and HGSE professor, discusses findings from the MET Project on measuring teacher effectiveness.

Kerry Kennedy, president of the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights reflects on bullying, international human rights, and whether she'd rather be a Kardashian or Osborne.

A conversation with three Gaza principals participating in the HGSE Programs in Professional Education institute "Leadership: An Evolving Vision."

Drew Faust, president of Harvard University, discusses her time as president, the opportunities and challenges currently facing the university, and how she reflects on her own journey.

Eric Schwarz, co-founder and CEO of Citizen Schools, discusses the importance of extended learning time and the vision for his service based organization.

Richard Elmore, professor of educational leadership at HGSE, provides insight into the people and programs attempting to strengthen the quality of leadership in the education sector.

Eve Sullivan, founder and president of Parents Forum discusses how raising children connects all families, regardless of background or social status, and that all families can be strengthened by improving communication and increasing emotional awareness.

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Adrian Fenty, former mayor of Washington D.C., shares his thoughts on reforming public education in the district, hiring Michelle Rhee, and being a movie star.

John Jackson, president and CEO of The Schott Foundation reflects on closing the opportunity gap in public schools across the country.

Domonique Foxworth, NFL cornerback and president of the NFL Players Association shares his personal story of being a lifelong student athlete.