Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In today’s episode, we'll explore how technology can be integrated into the second part of the pre-writing process, generating preliminary ideas. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with high school English teacher and AVID Site Coordinator Kera Diller to explore AVID's WICOR methodology, which incorporates Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading. Kera shares how WICOR transformed her instructional planning by providing a flexible methodology rather than a rigid formula. With vivid metaphors and pract...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how technology can be integrated into the first part of the pre-writing process: clarifying your task and choosing a topic. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we welcome back Thomas Murray to dive into the evolving landscape of Future Ready Schools . Tom shares insights on creating learning environments that truly prepare students for an unpredictable future, focusing on effectiveness, engagement, and innovation. From strategic frameworks to workforce readiness, he challenges educators to think beyond the basics a...

In today’s episode, we'll explore tech-enriched strategies to facilitate writing to learn. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Tyler Rablin, author of Hacking Student Motivation , joins us to examine the role that assessment plays in student motivation. He emphasizes the importance of rethinking traditional grading and assessment practices to better foster student success. He shares his experience with a brilliant but struggling student, Tiff, who inspired him to focus on growth rather than averaging scor...

Explore Snorkl, an AI feedback tool.

In this episode, Brittney Smith from the News Literacy Project discusses the importance of news and information literacy in today's digital age. She emphasizes the need for students to critically evaluate the credibility of information and understand the role of journalism in the information sharing process. Brittney highlights strategies like pausing before sharing, lateral reading, and trai...

Explore Canva Whiteboard, a robust digital canvas and workspace.

In this episode, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses her new book, Elevating Educational Design with AI , co-authored with Dr. Katie Novak. Tucker emphasizes the importance of using AI as a design thought partner rather than a replacement for human teaching. She outlines a framework for integrating AI into lesson planning, focusing on backward design, universal design, and personalized learning. Tucker hi...

In today’s episode, we'll explore using interactive slideshows to teach computer science and critical thinking. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Rena Clark, an Instructional Technology Facilitator and one of our Unpacking Education podcast cohosts, shares insights from the work that she's currently engaged in with language acquisition and translation tools. She discusses how the overreliance on translation tools in education can inadvertently hinder language acquisition and literacy. While she says that there's a...

In today’s episode, we'll explore Corgi , a free, interactive graphic organizer tool from CAST designed for teachers and students. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Explore how to create custom student chatbots with schoolai .

Gaspare Lipari, a teacher at Western Middle School in Greenwich, Connecticut, discusses his innovative use of immersive technologies in K-12 education. Lipari highlights the transformative impact of these technologies on student engagement, particularly in special education, where they enhance focus and social skills. He has also established and runs a summer camp and community programs to extend...

In this episode, Julie Faryniarz and Trish Rohr join us to discuss how they support public education through the work of the Greenwich Alliance for Education. The alliance supports public school students and educators through programs like Tuning into Music, Reaching Out Grants, and AVID. Julie and Trish highlight the importance of shared responsibility, community partnerships, and innovative educ...

In today’s episode, we'll explore Google Vids and ways to integrate video production into your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education , Matt Miller, the dynamic force behind the popular Ditch That Textbook blog and movement, shares his insights into education and technology. A former Spanish teacher turned ed-tech advocate, Matt shares his journey from traditional textbook-driven teaching to innovative, tech-infused strategies that engage students and spark creativity. Matt comments on the...

In today’s episode, we'll explore Adobe Podcast , a free podcasting solution for your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education , we sit down with renowned education technology advocate and author Ken Shelton to discuss his latest book, The Promises and Perils of AI in Education . Ken brings his years of experience as a middle school teacher, technology lab leader, and global speaker to a thought-provoking conversation about the transformative potential—and challenges—of artificial in...

In today’s episode, we'll review the themes of Digital Learning Day 2025 and explore ways that you and your students can participate. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more. 

Dr. Aliber Lozano, Head of Teaching and Learning at AVID, discusses the importance of supporting students beyond high school graduation, emphasizing the need for a growth mindset and nurturing student agency. He highlights the challenges faced by first-generation college students, including financial literacy, social networks, and mental health. Lozano stresses the role of educators in fostering p...

In today’s episode, we'll explore free online courses and resources that you and your students can use to learn more about artificial intelligence. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore how you can use Napkin AI to generate text and accompanying graphics, including editable diagrams. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.