The Teachercast Podcast

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:/

On November 29 and 30, educators from across the planet will be participating in the annual http://skypeathon.com (Skypeathon). Brought to you by http://education.microsoft.com (Microsoft Education), the Skypeathon is a fantastic way of bringing together not only classrooms, but it's a great opportunity to invite industry experts into your class to share their passions about their professions. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with New Jersey educator and Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, Steve Isaacs and TEDx Speaker and Middle School Educator Marialice Curran and discuss how the http://skypeathon.com (Skypeathon) has impacted their classrooms. If your class is looking to engage with amazing educators, I would highly recommend reaching out to Steve and Marialice. Steve not only is a fellow New Jersey Educator, he is one of just a handful of teachers worldwide who are MineCraft Education Experts willing to work with you and your students and share his passions for brick building. Follo

Search Engine Optimization is a skill that we all should be thinking about when we teach our students about Digital Citizenship. When we teach our students to comment on each other's Google docs, we are really setting our students up to improve their search rank. In this episode, learn all about SEO and how we can set our students and our websites up for a global audience. About CompanyArdor Media Factory is the ultimate multi-national backlink building company. We help businesses achieve utmost success in their respective niches. By using the most innovative methods of marketing online, we offer a wide range of services with awesome results including search engine optimization, search engine ranking, and link building. We also produce high-quality content for business websites through informative articles. Moreover, we offer free services such as keyword research and web analysis. We dedicate ourselves in simply giving you the best content marketing results for your business niche. W

Welcome to the TeacherCast Podcast. In this episode, Jeff sits down with speaker, author, and “Serial Innovator” John Kao, founder of EdgeMakers.com. In this episode, John and Jeff discuss how creativity can be fostered in every child by developing a strong interest and love for Music Education. Join Jeff and John on September 24th for “http://TeacherCast.net/HackTheClassroom (Hack the Classroom)” Presented by Microsoft Education LIVE from 8-10AM PST. For more information: http://TeacherCast.net/HackTheClassroom (TeacherCast.net/HackTheClassroom) Links of interesthttp://TeacherCast.net/HackTheClassroom (Hack the Classroom) http://www.johnkao.com/ (www.johnkao.com) http://www.edgemakers.com/ (www.edgemakers.com) http://twitter.com/johnkao (@johnkao) https://www.facebook.com/John.Kao2/ (https://www.facebook.com/John.Kao2/) About John KaoDubbed “Mr. Creativity” and a “Serial Innovator” by The Economist, John Kao is a thought leader, practitioner and activist, who has played a leading role in the field

Welcome to the TeacherCast Podcast. In this episode, Jeff sits down with Dr. Corinne Hyde, a fantastic professor at USC Rossier School of Education and an amazing educator to have a very candid discussion about Digital Literacy. In this interview, we touch on every topic from Social Media use to working with teachers who may be afraid of stepping out of the box in their classroom. About Dr. Hydehttps://edspiration.net (Dr. Corinne Hyde) is an Associate Teaching Professor of Clinical Education at the USC Rossier School of Education. Her areas of expertise include Educational Leadership, Elementary Education, Educational Psychology and Instructional Technology. Hyde has a wide variety of experience in the field of education, including classroom teaching, special education, community education, and educational administration. She currently resides in St. Gabriel, Louisiana (near Baton Rouge) and was the first full-time faculty member in the https://rossieronline.usc.edu/ (onlin

Jeff sits down with author Marnie Howard to discuss her new educational books called The BuzzyLuvz and how moms and dads worldwide are teaching great behavior skills to their students with the help of some little bees. About BuzzyLuvz“Kindness is essential in our world today and must be reinforced during the early stages of childhood. As a former elementary school substitute teacher, I have launched a Children’s Kindness Campaign starting with my six-book series BuzzyLuvz®: Practice Kindness. This series includes Be Helpful, Be Generous, Be Polite, Be Loving, Be Positive, and Be Thankful; all brought to life by whimsical, colorful bees.  These books are currently being sold on Amazon.com in both Paperback and Kindle formats. You are certainly aware that bullying has become an even more important issue in the United States today, as our society is witnessing an unprecedented amount of violence and deaths in our schools. BuzzyLuvz® is working to resolve this issue by focusing on th

Jeff sits down with educator, author, and Apple Distinguished Educator Monica Burns to discuss her book Deeper Learning with QR Codes and Augmented Reality. Why Scannable Technologies? Social Media:Blog http://classtechtips.com/ (ClassTechTips.com) Twitter http://www.twitter.com/classtechtips (@ClassTechTips) http://facebook.com/ClassTechTips (Facebook.com/ClassTechTips) http://pinterest.com/ClassTechTips (Pinterest.com/ClassTechTips) About Monica BurnsMonica Burns is an Curriculum and EdTech Consultant, Apple Distinguished Educator and Founder of http://classtechtips.com/ (ClassTechTips.com). As an educator, Monica was part of her school’s Federal Magnet Funding leadership team and was a vocal advocate for bringing 1:1 technology into her 5th grade classroom. During her tenure as an educator, Monica used iPads to create engaging, differentiated learning experience to meet the unique needs of her students. Realizing the power of tech tools in the classroom, Monica started http://classtechtips.com/

About RecapRecap is a free video response and reflection app developed by the makers of Swivl. It gives teachers and parents insight into students’ learning and progress by introducing video as a quick, simple and everyday tool to collect student data. Recap provides evidence of student thinking, improves formative assessment, and supports personalized learning. Sign up at http://www.letsrecap.com/ (www.letsrecap.com)! Teacher Resourceshttp://www.letsrecap.com/ (www.letsrecap.com) http://www.swivl.com (www.swivl.com) https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/recap-video-response-reflection/id1067461524?mt=8 (Download on iTunes) https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/recap-video-response-reflection/id1067461524?mt=8 (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/recap-video-response-reflection/id1067461524?mt=8) http://www.twitter.com/recapthat (@RecapThat) https://www.facebook.com/recapthat (Find Recap on Facebook) https://www.pinterest.com/Letsrecap/ (Find Recap on Pinterest) VideosCommercial: https://vimeo.com/1