Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In today’s episode, we'll review the contents of the AI Literacy Toolkit for Families co-created by Common Sense Media and Day of AI . Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded into daily life, computer science education must evolve to help students navigate and shape this new terrain. At the heart of this transformation is a powerful idea: keeping humans in the loop . In this episode, Perry Shank, Senior Director of Research and Development at CodeVA , joins the Unpacking Education team to explore how computer sci...

In today’s episode, we'll explore four questions to address when establishing technology routines for your K-12 classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Dr. Michelle Magallanez, Head of Interaction Design at AVID Center , returns to Unpacking Education to share how AVID Future Lab is equipping students with the durable skills they need to thrive beyond the classroom. The conversation explores how project-based learning (PBL), student voice and choice, and real-world issues—like the impact of social media on mental health—prepare l...

In today’s episode, we'll explore three ways that you can leverage technology to increase personal connections, collaboration, and relationship building in your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we dive into the powerful world of agricultural education and career and technical education (CTE), with award-winning ag teacher Eric Sawatzke. Eric shares how hands-on learning and real-world applications—like hydroponic farming, meat processing labs, and FFA leadership—are transforming student engagement and preparing learners for meaningful careers. This...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how you can use the best of face-to-face classroom instruction and online virtual learning by implementing the hybrid model of blended learning. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this inspiring episode, middle school science teacher Leif Voltz returns to the Unpacking Education podcast to share his reflections on a challenging, yet rewarding, school year and how he's preparing to start fresh with hope and joy. Leif opens up regarding burnout, the importance of relationships, and the mindset shifts that help educators recharge and reconnect with their purpose. Liste...

In today’s episode, we'll explore three types of blended learning playlists, their benefits, and a process for how to create them. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, Doug Ferguson, a National Board Certified Teacher , shares his journey back to the classroom. After an initial 10 years of teaching in an elementary classroom, Doug transitioned to educational leadership and curriculum design. Two years ago, Doug returned to his roots, teaching fifth-grade math and science. From reigniting classroom connections to building s...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how to use flipped learning to enhance classroom achievement and connections. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this lively and thought-provoking episode, the Unpacking Education podcast team is joined by Jon Corippo, cofounder of EduProtocols , to explore how educators can teach better, work less, and achieve more. With a wealth of real classroom experience and a passion for brain-based pedagogy, Jon shares the inspiration behind EduProtocols, providing teachers with repeatable, tech-savvy lesson frames...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the basics of station rotation and how to begin implementing this strategy in your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with Michael McCormick, Superintendent in Residence at AVID Center, to explore what it really takes to lead through change in today’s educational landscape. With over three decades of experience—from juvenile probation to classroom teaching to district leadership—Michael shares insights from his personal journey and digs into practical change the...

In today’s episode, we'll explore ways to integrate the blended learning strategy of whole group rotation into your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we’re joined by international educator Mathilde Landemaine to explore the rich and varied experiences of teaching abroad. With a teaching journey that spans France, England, and Japan, Mathilde offers an insider's look at how educational systems differ—and what that means for students and teachers alike. Tune in for a fascinating conversation about curr...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the key components and benefits of blended learning. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, the Unpacking Education podcast hosts dig into effective ways to open and close a class period. Throughout their conversation, they reflect on the benefits of beginning and ending routines, including the consistent use of bell ringer and exit ticket activities. They offer a wealth of specific examples that teachers can apply to their own classrooms. Visit AVID Open Access to learn...

In today’s episode, we'll explore a newly developed draft document— Empowering Learners for the Age of AI: An AI Literacy Framework for Primary and Secondary Education —from the European Commission and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, with support from Code.org and other leading international experts. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Winston, Rena, and Paul discuss the importance of authentic learning. They break down what authentic learning is while providing specific examples of it in action from their experiences as students, teachers, and professional learning facilitators. Through this conversation, you’ll discover common attributes that make authentic learning powerful and actionable in any context. Visi...

In today’s episode, we'll explore three ways to level up your understanding and use of artificial intelligence. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

What do teens really think about the news, and how prepared are they to navigate today’s complex information landscape? We explore these questions in this episode of Unpacking Education, as we’re joined by Kim Bowman and Peter Adams from the News Literacy Project (NLP) , a nonpartisan nonprofit. Kim and Peter share the results of their national study, News Literacy in America: A Survey of Teen Inf...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how AI Trust You , a free Google add-on, can increase open and honest communication between students and teachers regarding AI use on assignments. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education , we dive into the realities of teaching in a tech-saturated world with educator and author Lisa Green. Drawing from her book Outsmarted: The Changing Face of Learning in the Era of Smartphones and Technology , Lisa explores how smartphones, social media, and technology are transforming the way students learn, socialize, and engage in the classroom. Lisa shar...

Explore the highlights of the President’s Executive Order: “Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth.”