How We Teach This: Season Nine

Season 9 of How We Teach This has a wide range of guests and topics - Listen to stories from Milken Educator Award recipients, hear about the Science of Reading, Digital Literacy teaching strategies, and Dr. Jenny Moss shares about the Dark Side of Motivation.

“This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Emporia State University or The Teachers College. Any mention of products, individuals, or organizations within this podcast does not constitute an endorsement. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on information provided in this podcast.” 

Blonde female with long hair and glasses

Damara Paris, PhD 

Professor 

Emporia State University

blonde female with long hair

Carrie Boettcher, PhD

Assistant Professor

Emporia State University

Season 9, Episode 14 - July 17, 2024

Inclusive Education: Advancing Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning

Dr. Damara Paris and Dr. Carrie Boettcher are esteemed experts in accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Dr. Paris, as a Deaf individual, highlights her lifelong advocacy for accessible education. With her extensive experience as a Rehabilitation Counselor, Dr. Boettcher delves into the importance of accessibility in education and how UDL supports diverse learning styles. Together, they explore the differences between accessibility and accommodations, the legal responsibilities of educators, and practical tools for creating inclusive learning environments. Join us to learn how accessibility and UDL can transform educational experiences for all students. 

Season 9, Episode 13 - July 3, 2024

Inspiring Future Educators: A Look at High School Teaching Programs

Diane Kimsey,  2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year nominee and Robin Dixon, 2007 Kansas Master Teacher discuss a concurrent enrollment program designed for high school students aspiring to become future teachers. The interview includes information about the daily classroom experience, the curriculum, and the competitions these students participate in. We explore the impact on students' lives and the challenges faced by educators leading such initiatives. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or simply curious about innovative educational programs, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for starting similar programs in your own schools. 

Diane Kimsey 

Elementary Math Consulting Teacher 

Topeka Public School

Robin Dixon 

PreK-5 ELA/SS Consulting Teacher 

Topeka Public Schools

Season 9, Episode 12 - June 19, 2024

Teacher Talk: The Power of Play-Based Learning

Hailey Couch,  2018 Milken Educator Award Recipient, delves into the transformative power of play in early childhood education. Hailey, an experienced teacher and current Instructional Coach at Norman Public Schools, shares her journey and passion for developmentally appropriate practices and play-based learning. Listen as Hailey recounts her role in advocating for the "Oklahoma Play to Learn Act," the challenges and triumphs of promoting play in education, and practical strategies for incorporating play in the classroom.

Discover how play not only fosters academic skills but also enhances social, emotional, and cognitive development in young learners. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration for educators striving to create joyful, dynamic, and effective learning environments.

Hailey Elaine Couch 

Elementary District Instructional Coach 

Norman Public Schools

Russell Swanson, PhD

Assistant Professor 

Program Lead, MSELED and Restricted License of Teachers College

Emporia State University

Todd Roberts

Instructor

Program Lead, BEST of Teachers College

Emporia State University

Director of Kansas Future Teacher Academy

Season 9, Episode 11 - June 5, 2024

Teaching Licensure: Ensuring the Future of Quality Teaching with Options

Dr. Russell Swanson,  Assistant Professor, and Todd Roberts, Instructor, at Emporia State University share options for teaching licensure.  Roberts is also the Director of the Kansas Future Teacher Academy (KFTA).

Learn about the latest developments in traditional licensure paths, including community college to university programs and fully online options. Learn about programs for special education teachers, Teacher Apprenticeships, and CTE pathways.

For those with a bachelor's degree looking to transition to teaching, we discuss the Transition to Teaching program, Restricted Licensure, and the Kansas State Service Scholarship.

Season 9, Episode 10 - May 22, 2024

2024 Kansas Master Teachers:  Experiences and Advice for the Classroom

Join us as we celebrate the outstanding educators recognized by Emporia State University's Kansas Master Teachers Award!

In this episode, hear from exceptional teachers who share:

✨ Inspiring stories of students who have shaped their careers

✨ Effective strategies they've used in the classroom

✨ Innovative ideas that have made a difference in their teaching journey

Tune in for a dose of inspiration and practical tips that can transform your approach to education. Don't miss out on these valuable insights from some of Kansas' finest educators.

Season 9, Episode 9 - May 8, 2024

Unveiling the Power of Blended Learning

Dr. Cecil Short, Associate Professor at Emporia State University, 

In this episode, we delve into the transformative world of Blended Learning. We explore the 3Ms framework—modality, media, and methods—emphasizing the pivotal role of methods in shaping effective teaching practices.

Highlighting Blended Learning as the dynamic fusion of in-person and online learning modalities, we investigate the benefits it offers, from enhanced engagement to personalized instruction.

We also discuss essential competencies for educators and tackle obstacles like technological disparities and workload.  Reflecting on the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we examine its influence and offer pragmatic advice to navigate these hurdles effectively.

Cecil Short, PhD

Associate Professor, Director of Secondary Education

Emporia State University

Teddy Roop, PhD.

Associate Professor

Emporia State University

Season 9, Episode 8 - April 24, 2024

Part 2: Teaching with the Science of Reading for Educators

Dr. Teddy Roop, Associate Professor at Emporia State University, gives advice that classroom teachers can utilize to improve their reading instruction with research-based strategies.

In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of teaching reading effectively. Join us as we unpack strategies, approaches, and considerations for educators at all levels, from elementary to secondary education.

📚 Using screening and diagnostic assessments to guide instruction

👐 The Power of Multi-Sensory Learning: Explore the benefits of structured literacy approaches;

🔍 Teaching Strategies in Action: Gain practical insights into teaching strategies such as think-aloud, metacognition activities, and phonemic awareness tasks, all designed to boost reading proficiency.

📝 Choosing the Right Phonics Program: Navigate the landscape of phonics programs with confidence, learning what to watch out for to select the most effective program for your students.

🔍 Secondary Education Focus: Explore why effective reading instruction is crucial for secondary educators, including those in exploratory subjects, and its impact on student success.

Season 9, Episode 7 - April 10, 2024

Understanding the Science of Reading and the Impact on All Learners

Dr. Teddy Roop, Associate Professor at Emporia State University,  defines the Science of Reading and explains how it is different from Balanced Literacy or whole language methods. She describes how the 5 pillars are critical to effectively teaching students HOW to read.

Listen to this episode to deepen your understanding and application of evidence-based literacy strategies.

Teddy Roop, PhD.

Associate Professor

Emporia State University

Kristi Becker Yulich

4th Grade Teacher

Topeka Logan Elementary

Hailey Elaine Couch

Elementary Instructional Coach

Norman Public Schools

Season 9, Episode 6 - March 27, 2024

Teachers Inspire and Change Lives: Empowering the Educator Within

Kristi Becker Yulich, 4th-grade teacher and 2022 recipient of the Milken Educator Award, and Hailey Elaine Couch, Elementary Instructional Coach and 2018 recipient of the Milken Educator Award, share what they've been inspired to do in their classroom. They challenge other educators to be 10% bolder in impacting education in their communities and share strategies. You will be inspired to find the light in your school and celebrate education.

Season 9, Episode 5 - March 13, 2024

Engaging Students By Making Learning FUN!

Jessica Gazzano, art teacher and member of the 2023 Kansas Teacher of the Year team, and Cooper Allison, 6th grade ELA teacher and 2023 Kansas Horizon Award recipient, share about how they use enthusiasm and fun to engage students. Both are middle school-level teachers who want to inspire fellow educators to bring fun into the classroom. 

Jessica Gazzano

Art Teacher

Woodland Spring Middle School

Cooper Allison

ELA  and Journalism Teacher

Woodland Spring Middle School

Season 9, Episode 4 - February 28, 2024

Strategies and Stories from the 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year Team

This team of outstanding teachers traveled the state during the 2023 - 24 school year sharing ideas and information with educators. While visiting Emporia State University, the team shared stories and strategies they found successful in the classroom.

Season 9, Episode 3 - February 14, 2024

QUEST: Steps to Teaching Digital Literacy In Any Content Area

Dr. Beth Dobler, Professor at Emporia State University,  leads us on a QUEST into the realm of digital literacy, exploring its integration with project-based learning and envisioning its future in education. Join us as we unravel the acronym and delve into each element.

**Q - Question: Empower students to develop strong questioning skills as they embark on inquiry-driven research projects. 

**U - Understanding: Having students understand what they read is necessary to move beyond gathering facts.

**E - Evaluate: Become a healthy skeptic in the digital age. Explore strategies for evaluating online information, utilizing resources like Britannica's Curiosity, and empowering students to discern reliable sources from misinformation.

**S - Synthesizing: Delve into the art of synthesizing information. Learn how students can decide what is crucial and compose their learnings into coherent narratives.

**T - Transforming: Uncover the CHOMP method for transforming knowledge into action. Explore how students can share their insights with others, creating a collaborative and dynamic learning environment.

We'll also break down QUEST into its parts, providing practical examples of teaching strategies that align with each component.

brunette with glasses smiling, portrait of Dr. Beth Dobler

Beth Dobler, PhD.

Professor

Emporia State University

Season 9, Episode  2 - January 31, 2024

Part 2 The Dark Side of Motivation: Controlling Teaching

Join the ongoing dialogue with Dr. Jenny Moss, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Emporia State University, as she delves into the nuances of how controlling behaviors from teachers impact students. Gain insights into recognizing genuine learning involvement versus mere compliance. Discover strategies to steer clear of detrimental motivation pitfalls and controlling teaching behaviors. This episode invites you to envision a classroom atmosphere that enhances students' intrinsic motivation, offering a fresh perspective on fostering genuine educational engagement. 

Jenny Moss, PhD

Assistant Professor of Psychology at Emporia State University

Jenny Moss, PhD

Assistant Professor of Psychology at Emporia State University

Season 9, Episode 1 - January 17, 2024

Controlling Teaching: The Dark Side of Motivation

Dr. Jenny Moss, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Emporia State University, shares examples to improve student engagement by providing more autonomy. Teachers want to avoid the dark side of motivation, and controlling teaching behaviors. In this episode, you can learn things you might be doing in the classroom, without realizing it, that inhibit student autonomy.

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Want to be a guest on our show? Contact us at  email: HWTT@emporia.edu