Teach Wonder
73 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago - ★★★★★ - 8 ratingsWe know that powerful things are happening in education and that those powerful things often go unnoticed or are siloed (within a community). We’ve built a space to share those powerful things, where we aren’t constrained by distance and scheduling. We’ll combine our 35 years of K - 12 teaching experience with the unique perspectives of our guests to connect you to relevant ideas and experiences. Listen in to motivate your practice, challenge your current pedagogy, and expand your horizons with stories from educators near and far.
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Episodes
From Theory to Practice: Sara Fitzpatrick (STEM Education Scholar Series 3)
February 29, 2024 16:00 - 16 minutes - 11.3 MBIn 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 Pixaba...
From Theory to Practice: Ryan Stevens (STEM Education Scholar Series 2)
February 15, 2024 18:00 - 25 minutes - 17.2 MBIn 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 Ryan Stevens a middle school math and STEM teacher. Join us as we delve into Ryan's journey from student to teacher, exploring the invaluable lessons learned and the profound impact of his CMU experience on his teaching philosophy and practices. Ryan's Links Mavin Edison Robots Our Links: Teach...
From Theory to Practice: Bailey Birman (STEM Education Scholars Series 1)
February 11, 2024 12:00 - 26 minutes - 18.5 MBWe caught up with some of our CMU Alumni, the students who we got to know well as STEM Education Scholars. Bailey Birman is teaches math at an alternative high school in Michigan. She shares the ways in which she felt prepared to teach and what has been a learning curve. Her thoughts on keeping a healthy boundary between her classroom and her life as well why she is excited to stay in such a challenging profession are worth the listen. Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Pixabay ...
Assessment: Making Grades and Feedback Meaningful
January 23, 2024 17:00 - 18 minutes - 12.9 MBWe wrap up our assessment series by talking with Nicole Hagle. Nicole shares her strategies for looking at proficiencies instead of points. We talk about what happens when students do not understand the grading system and what we can do to help. Other Episodes on Assessment: Healthy Grading Practices: Perspectives from a Secondary Teacher Assessment in Elementary Assessing Multiple Grades and Skills Transcript Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Pixabay Find us on social...
Assessing Multiple Grades and Skills
January 09, 2024 15:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBWe're continuing our conversation on assessment with multi-age teacher, Tammy Clingenpeel. We talk about making "just in time" accommodations, how to differentiate assessment within a fixed curriciulum, and how Tammy's teaching has changed over time. This episode is a thoughtful reflection from a thoughtful teacher. We know you'll love it. Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Assessment in Elementary
December 10, 2023 19:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBWe're back and talking assessment with elementary teacher Bryant Greiner. We talk assessment strategies for math and reading and the skills we build in elementary. Bryant's warm and enthusiasm for learning about his students skills and personalities is a great reminder of how building relationships with students must be factored into every aspect of teaching and learning. Tune in to hear tips and ideas that would work for any grade level! Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Pix...
You're Teaching Humans
November 12, 2023 05:00 - 37 minutes - 25.8 MBWe hope you enjoy our interview with June Teisan. She's a long-time educator and a life-long learner. We discuss the 3Ps of project, place, and problem based learning. Links NCWIT InnovatED 313 Music: Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Oleksandr Savochka, Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Healthy Grading Practices: Perspectives from a Secondary Teacher
October 29, 2023 04:00 - 40 minutes - 27.5 MBHow do we communicate student growth? Is that the same as work ethic? The same as effort? Our conversation with teacher Aric Foster gets us thinking about what makes a healthy grading practice. Our Email: [email protected] Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
When a Space Is Designed to Teach Differently
October 14, 2023 04:00 - 29 minutes - 20.6 MBWe spoke with Lizzie Dilg, director of the Discovery Museum in Mt. Pleasant Michigan. We discussed how museums are designed to foster learning and how we can learn from the way informal educators approach children. Museum Links: Discovery Museum on Facebook Discovery Museum Website Discovery Museum on Instagram STEM Passport Music Intro: David Biedenbender Other sounds: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Lessons from Summer
September 30, 2023 08:00 - 30 minutes - 20.9 MBJulie and Ashley are back for another season of Teach Wonder. Listen as we talk about what teaching lessons we've learned this summer and some fun takes on our adventures in reading. Links: Unearthing Joy The Wager Ascendant Intro Music: David Biedenbender Other Music: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Mixed Tape: Some Reflections on The Teacher We Want to Be
May 23, 2023 10:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MBIn this seasons finale, we took a different approach. You're going to hear an episode that's part reflection, part conversation and part remix. We took clips from two influential interviews to our staff and listened to them in a new light. There is no bad time to reflect on what teaching means to you, but the end of the year feels like a particularly relevant time for us. You can listen to the original episodes at the link below. Interview with Dr. Corey Drake Interview with Dr. Paula La...
Teaching over Time: The Power of Teaching Partnerships, PBL, and Informal Data
May 02, 2023 12:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBWe are absolutely thrilled to have with us this week Laura Trombley and Becky Rousseau, two incredible teachers who have been trying some new things in their classroom. We'll be chatting about how partnerships and collaboration can nurture a more dynamic learning environment, the power of project-based learning, what kind of data can actually tell us how our students are learning, and so much more! So, who's ready for a great conversation? Opening Music: David Biedenbender Find us on so...
Audio Dramas: Alma and Ithaca Presents
April 18, 2023 11:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MBIn a slight deviation from our regular content, we're sharing the final products from two student clubs in Alma and Ithaca. Students created a set of audio dramas for their peers and for us. This project was made possible with the support of the Gratiot Community Foundation. Join us as we celebrate the creativity and collaboration of these two groups of students. Music and Effects: Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Play Is Where Failure Presents Itself
April 04, 2023 11:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MBOur 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. Listen to Episode 1 now Introduction Music: David Biedenbender Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Learning Through Play
March 21, 2023 11:00 - 28 minutes - 19.6 MBToday 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 Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichces...
Role Playing Games and STEM
March 07, 2023 12:00 - 57 minutes - 39.2 MBRole playing games and story? Yes. Role playing games and fantasy? Obviously. But role playing games and STEM? Find out why we say- absolutely! Our interview with Mike Reuter focuses role playing games and their possibilities with students. Owner of Raconteurs of the High Road, Mike draws on his experience leading middle & high school and adult groups in popular role playing campaigns. We talk about the skills and surprises that come with engaging in this activity with students. Whether y...
Permission From Ourselves: A Discussion about Students, Growth, and PBL
February 21, 2023 12:00 - 39 minutes - 27.3 MBWe talked with Instructrional Coach Megan Nix. This conversation includes insights into project-based learning, how we think about students and their voice and choice, and the experiences that change us as teachers. Megan's answers are full of reflection and insight; they are an expression of how much she values students and giving them meaningful and authentic learning experiences. Links: John Spencer Intro Music: David Biedenbeder Other Music: SergeQuadrado Find us on social media: I...
Grit and Resilience: It's Probably Not What You Think
February 07, 2023 12:00 - 48 minutes - 33.4 MBWe interviewed 906 Adventure Team's Todd Poquette. This conversation began with a discussion about the goals and structure of this youth biking team. Mountain bikers will appreciate Todd's focus and love of this activity. Educators and parents, you will want to hear how this growing nonprofit is rethinking the way we think about grit and resilience. Links: 906 Adventure Team Sound Effects found on Pixabay Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Teacher to Teacher Talk 2022
December 27, 2022 14:00 - 57 minutes - 39.5 MBThis week on Teach Wonder, we are bringing you an interview with Dawn Kahler. A middle school teacher from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dawn brings a level head and thoughtful presence to teaching in 2022. This conversation spans student relationships, administration, and how to take care of yourself. Links: Kagan: It's All About Engagement For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y'all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education by Christopher Emdin Intro Music by: David Biedenb...
Belonging and Inclusive Teaching: InSciTE
December 13, 2022 13:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBThis episode revisits a familiar topic in a new way. We're taking a look at the new program at Central Michigan University that is allowing students to integrate their learning in a collaborative environment. This episode shares the perspectives of faculty and students. We talk about the tips and ideas that were part of the instrumental workshop series that preceding work with students. As we close out the 2022 semester, this episode touches on all of the topics we've explored this semester....
Libraries are More than Books
November 23, 2022 01:00 - 40 minutes - 28 MBChristie Folsom works at the Chippewa River District Library. Whether you are a regular in the library or are not sure what street you'd drive down to find yours, this episode is for you. Our conversation spans early literacy and the role of libraries in the community. We end our interview with our favorite reads of 2022. We guarantee this interview will is one you'll enjoy. Links: Chippewa River District Library Book Eaters Fairy Tale Now What The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse ...
Libraries are More than Books
November 23, 2022 01:00 - 40 minutes - 28 MBChristie Folsom works at the Chippewa River District Library. Whether you are a regular in the library or are not sure what street you'd drive down to find yours, this episode is for you. Our conversation spans early literacy and the role of libraries in the community. We end our interview with our favorite reads of 2022. We guarantee this interview will is one you'll enjoy. Links: Chippewa River District Library Book Eaters Fairy Tale Now What The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse ...
To See What It's Like to Be An Active Member of Your Community
November 15, 2022 13:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MBIn its simplest form, today's interview focuses on the program Connections that Count. It partners Central Michigan University undergrads with people with disabilities. More realistically, this podcast episode is about building a community that is based on respect and care; one that brings out the best in others and holds members accountable. Building communities like that take time and work. Dr. Holly Hoffman shares details about this program and tells us why it's important to foster that s...
Learning to Teach in a Meaningful Way
November 01, 2022 14:00 - 54 minutes - 37.2 MBOur interview with Pete O’Neil focuses on building relationships with students as a launching point for learning. He shares how he his thinking about teaching has changed overtime and what ideas and experiences he has learned from in his 23 years as a teacher. Pete’s honest approach to difficult questions makes this interview one that we can all learn from. Intro Music by David Biedenbender Other Music: Daddy_S_Music Backstag147 Meditation Hypnosis Samuel Francis Johnson Nature’s Eye...
Learning to Teach in a Meaningful Way
November 01, 2022 14:00 - 54 minutes - 37.2 MBOur interview with Pete O’Neil focuses on building relationships with students as a launching point for learning. He shares how he his thinking about teaching has changed overtime and what ideas and experiences he has learned from in his 23 years as a teacher. Pete’s honest approach to difficult questions makes this interview one that we can all learn from. Intro Music by David Biedenbender Other Music: Daddy_S_Music Backstag147 Meditation Hypnosis Samuel Francis Johnson Nature’s Eye...
Capturing a Capacity to Grow
October 13, 2022 00:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MBThis episode is a conversation with faculty Wiline Pangle, PhD. She is leading a new certificate that is a combined effort of many and speaks to a movement in education that we are more than a little interested in. This certificate gives students an opportunity to integrate their skills and apply them in a way that is authentic. We discuss the difference between student driven and student centered learning. We hear about the logistics involved and the dreams for this certificate. And we are ...
Capturing a Capacity to Grow
October 13, 2022 00:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MBThis episode is a conversation with faculty Wiline Pangle, PhD. She is leading a new certificate that is a combined effort of many and speaks to a movement in education that we are more than a little interested in. This certificate gives students an opportunity to integrate their skills and apply them in a way that is authentic. We discuss the difference between student driven and student centered learning. We hear about the logistics involved and the dreams for this certificate. And we are ...
Integrating Everything
October 04, 2022 10:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MBEver wondered what a year in the life of another teacher looks like? Ever wonder what a year of doing project-based, interdisciplinary learning in a makerspace looks like? Trey Smith is a K - 8 digital literacy teacher in Philadelphia. He is sharing details on his units, approach to educational design, and reflections on where to go next. You'll leave this episode with a better understanding of how content can be connected and integrated into a cohesive unit. Join us for a reflective and pra...
Integrating Everything
October 04, 2022 10:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MBEver wondered what a year in the life of another teacher looks like? Ever wonder what a year of doing project-based, interdisciplinary learning in a makerspace looks like? Trey Smith is a K - 8 digital literacy teacher in Philadelphia. He is sharing details on his units, approach to educational design, and reflections on where to go next. You'll leave this episode with a better understanding of how content can be connected and integrated into a cohesive unit. Join us for a reflective and pra...
The Process is Where We Should Be
September 20, 2022 10:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBWe are bringing our former teacher friend and new colleague Kim June back on our podcast. We asked Kim to think about a change she's made to her practice and how she is bringing that into the fall. We were not prepared for her answer- so much so, that we brought her back for a second interview for this episode. Part I will be an interview with Julie and Part II is with Ashley. You won't want to miss Kim's reflection on her 30+ year teaching career and what she would do if she was back in the...
The Process is Where We Should Be
September 20, 2022 10:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBWe are bringing our former teacher friend and new colleague Kim June back on our podcast. We asked Kim to think about a change she's made to her practice and how she is bringing that into the fall. We were not prepared for her answer- so much so, that we brought her back for a second interview for this episode. Part I will be an interview with Julie and Part II is with Ashley. You won't want to miss Kim's reflection on her 30+ year teaching career and what she would do if she was back in the...
Bringing My Whole Self to All of These Things
September 06, 2022 10:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MBWelcome to Season 3! We're launching this season with Amanda Cornwell. A colleague at the makerspace, Amanda runs field trips, student programming, and brings a huge amount of creativity, innovation, and joy to the makerspace. We asked her about how she's changed as an educator and how she's bringing that into fall. Music By: David Biedenbender Links: Heather Lanier Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Bringing My Whole Self to All of These Things
September 06, 2022 10:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MBWelcome to Season 3! We're launching this season with Amanda Cornwell. A colleague at the makerspace, Amanda runs field trips, student programming, and brings a huge amount of creativity, innovation, and joy to the makerspace. We asked her about how she's changed as an educator and how she's bringing that into fall. Music By: David Biedenbender Links: Heather Lanier
Season 3: Changes
September 04, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.62 MBWelcome back to Season 3 of Teach Wonder. Tune in to hear some what is coming this season and find out how you can be involved. Email us: [email protected] Music: David Biedenbender Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Season 3: Changes
September 04, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.62 MBWelcome back to Season 3 of Teach Wonder. Tune in to hear some what is coming this season and find out how you can be involved. Email us: [email protected] Music: David Biedenbender
Look Who's Coming to the Classroom
May 30, 2022 03:00 - 20 minutes - 14.4 MBWe're ending this season with a mix of interviews from a different point of view. Julie spoke with three students at Central Michigan University who are studying to be teachers. Listen to how they're preparing, how they've grown, and what they think about building relationships with students. Intro Music: David Biedenbender Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
Look Who's Coming to the Classroom
May 30, 2022 03:00 - 20 minutes - 14.4 MBWe're ending this season with a mix of interviews from a different point of view. Julie spoke with three students at Central Michigan University who are studying to be teachers. Listen to how they're preparing, how they've grown, and what they think about building relationships with students. Intro Music: David Biedenbender
Finding Joy in Childhood
May 08, 2022 11:00 - 56 minutes - 38.6 MBSarah Szuminski brings a unique blend of experience as a teacher and as a parent to this important conversation about childhood, special education, and what we want for our kids. Sarah has her master's degree in early childhood special education. She has worked in professional settings with children, teachers, parents, and therapists. As a parent, she has done the same. Parents, teachers, and adults will learn from Sarah's expertise and passion. Sarah's Links: Simplifying Play Lisa Murph...
Stories and Sound Audio Dramas
April 24, 2022 11:00 - 14 minutes - 9.82 MBIn a slight change from our usual episodes, we're bringing you a trio of audio dramas. Written, directed, and performed by a middle school group that met after school in the makerspace, we know you'll be impressed with their creativity and enthusiasm. Thanks to CMU Faculty Will Anderson for partnering in this project, Serafine Hinz for recording and post production, and to our actors writers and directors: Oliva, Theo, Constantine, Claire, and Mark! Additional Music by: MondayHopes Humano...
Teacher to Teacher Talk
April 10, 2022 12:00 - 57 minutes - 39.2 MBThis week on Teach Wonder, we are bringing you an interview with Dawn Kahler. A middle school teacher from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dawn brings a level head and thoughtful presence to teaching in 2022. This conversation spans student relationships, administration, and how to take care of yourself. Links: Kagan: It's All About Engagement For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y'all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education by Christopher Emdin Intro Music by: David Biedenb...
Teacher to Teacher Talk
April 10, 2022 12:00 - 57 minutes - 39.2 MBThis week on Teach Wonder, we are bringing you an interview with Dawn Kahler. A middle school teacher from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dawn brings a level head and thoughtful presence to teaching in 2022. This conversation spans student relationships, administration, and how to take care of yourself. Links: Kagan: It's All About Engagement For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood... and the Rest of Y'all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education by Christopher Emdin Intro Music by: David Biedenb...
Defining STEM Education
March 27, 2022 12:00 - 41 minutes - 28.3 MBIn today’s episode. We’re considering what STEM means from different perspectives. You'll hear interviews with Claire Bunker, MiSTEM Network Director, East Central Michigan Region, and Amy Hindbaugh-Marr, STEAM Teacher in Ithaca, Michigan. These two interviews share stories, experiences, and practice advise that will help you think about STEM in your community. Links: MiSTEM Pipeline and Background Code.org- Michigan Ozobots Chief Science Officers (CSO) Intro Music by: David Biedenbender...
Defining STEM Education
March 27, 2022 12:00 - 41 minutes - 28.3 MBIn today’s episode. We’re considering what STEM means from different perspectives. You'll hear interviews with Claire Bunker, MiSTEM Network Director, East Central Michigan Region, and Amy Hindbaugh-Marr, STEAM Teacher in Ithaca, Michigan. These two interviews share stories, experiences, and practice advise that will help you think about STEM in your community. Links: MiSTEM Pipeline and Background Code.org- Michigan Ozobots Chief Science Officers (CSO) Intro Music by: David Biedenbender...
What's Your Relationship to Stress?
March 13, 2022 12:00 - 54 minutes - 37.6 MBBrandis Ansley is a faculty member at Central Michigan University in the special education department. Prior to getting her PhD, Brandis worked in the mental health field and as a special education teacher. This podcast explores the ways in which stress affects, students, teachers, and the education system. Links: Schools Across the Country are Struggling to Find Staff. Here's Why Find us on social media: Instagram: cmichcese Facebook: cmich_cese
A False Sense of Competence: Important Conversations about Teaching and Learning
February 27, 2022 12:00 - 42 minutes - 29 MBHow do we define competence inside the classroom? What are some of the nuanced differences between special and general education? How does specific language help teachers communicate more clearly? Our conversation with Dr. Paula Lancaster, Dean of the College of Education and Human Services at CMU engages with these questions and more. Dean Lancaster draws on her experience as a special education teacher, faculty member, and Dean to bring so much depth to these timely topics. Links Teachin...
A False Sense of Competence: Important Conversations about Teaching and Learning
February 27, 2022 12:00 - 42 minutes - 29 MBHow do we define competence inside the classroom? What are some of the nuanced differences between special and general education? How does specific language help teachers communicate more clearly? Our conversation with Dr. Paula Lancaster, Dean of the College of Education and Human Services at CMU engages with these questions and more. Dean Lancaster draws on her experience as a special education teacher, faculty member, and Dean to bring so much depth to these timely topics. Links Teachin...
When We're the Ones Leading the Inquiry
February 13, 2022 12:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBJoin us in conversation with Hedi Baxter Lauffer. We catch up and learn how plants, science education and having teachers think of themselves as learners all play a part in Hedi’s professional background. You don’t want to miss a chance to hear from the Director of Teaching and Learning with the Wisconsin Fast Plants Program. Links: FastPlants.org BSCS Science Curriculum Wisconsin Fast Plants Link SIMPL Model Ambitious Science Primer 1:1 Techology, 1:1 Plants Music: RomanBelov fr...
When We're the Ones Leading the Inquiry
February 13, 2022 12:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBJoin us in conversation with Hedi Baxter Lauffer. We catch up and learn how plants, science education and having teachers think of themselves as learners all play a part in Hedi’s professional background. You don’t want to miss a chance to hear from the Director of Teaching and Learning with the Wisconsin Fast Plants Program. Links: FastPlants.org BSCS Science Curriculum Wisconsin Fast Plants Link SIMPL Model Ambitious Science Primer 1:1 Techology, 1:1 Plants Music: RomanBelov fr...
Small Groups, Big Impact: Elliciting Student Thinking
January 30, 2022 12:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MBIn this companion episode, we're returning to Mr. G and Mrs. Peach's classroom. This time, Julie joins the conversation to look at the ways in which Mr. G elicits student thinking. As a former secondary teacher, Julie has some fresh perspectives to share as she watches and elementary math lesson. This episode includes discussions on differentiation, Core Teaching Practices, engagement, and teacher decision making. Links: Companion Episode: Season 2, Episode 1 Core Teaching Practices Int...
Small Groups, Big Impact: Elliciting Student Thinking
January 30, 2022 12:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MBIn this companion episode, we're returning to Mr. G and Mrs. Peach's classroom. This time, Julie joins the conversation to look at the ways in which Mr. G elicits student thinking. As a former secondary teacher, Julie has some fresh perspectives to share as she watches and elementary math lesson. This episode includes discussions on differentiation, Core Teaching Practices, engagement, and teacher decision making. Links: Companion Episode: Season 2, Episode 1 Core Teaching Practices Int...