Teaching Students to Think Like Historians:
Year Three of the Statewide Social Studies Inquiry Project

Social Studies Inquiry Project Image

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we dive into the ESUCC’s statewide Social Studies Inquiry Project with Mark Brady of ESU 7 and three incredible teachers from this summer’s iteration of the project (Cassie Kenedy of Omaha Public Schools, Jeff Maddox of Creek Valley Public Schools, and Sydney Daly of Millard Public Schools). Together, we highlight the three-year journey of developing nearly 90 inquiry-based social studies units for grades 4-8, created by Nebraska teachers for Nebraska classrooms. Cassie, Jeff, and Sydney detail the challenges, successes, and insights gained from this unique professional learning experience and share how these innovative resources are elevating social studies education across the state. Join us to hear firsthand stories of statewide collaboration, creativity, and commitment to engaging students in deeper learning.

Access all resources: Social Studies Inquiry Project – ESU CC

The Nebraska OER Hub site: Nebraska Social Studies Inquiry Project Group Resources | OER Commons

The Nebraska Page of the C3 Teachers site: Nebraska C3 Hub – C3 Teachers

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT, listen to this earlier episode where we connect the SSIP to the C3 Framework and the national effort to transform instructional practices in social studies: C3 Teachers and Nebraska ESUs Are Transforming Instruction in Social Studies

The AI Conversation No One Is Having, But Educators Need to Hear

In this thought-provoking episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Evie Wusk, a professor of educational technology at Peru State College, to delve into the evolving relationship between AI and education. Together, we explore how technology is not only reshaping teaching and writing but also influencing the broader human experience. Drawing from her recent EdSurge article, Dr. Wusk offers a nuanced perspective on balancing AI’s efficiencies with the need to preserve the deep, meaningful aspects of education. Join us for a compelling conversation that invites educators to critically reflect on the future of teaching and learning in the age of AI.

Read Dr. Evi Wusk’s EdSurge article: AI Might Save Teachers Time. But What Is the Cost? | EdSurge News

The Next Chapter in UDL: Katie Novak on UDL 3.0, AI, HQIMs and Professional Learning

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we are joined by UDL expert Katie Novak to explore the latest advancements in Universal Design for Learning and how the evolution of UDL is shaping the future of inclusive education. We also delve into the role of AI in enhancing UDL practices and the critical importance of robust professional learning systems in driving meaningful change. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on how to elevate student learning experiences and outcomes through UDL.

REGISTER TODAY to be a part of the NeMTSS Summit and learn from Katie Novak, live and in-person, on September 26-27 in Kearney, Nebraska!

2024 Nebraska MTSS Summit: Super Systems for Success – (unl.edu)

LEARN MORE FROM KATIE…

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Connecting Nebraska: The Power of Network Nebraska in Education

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we explore the pivotal role of Network Nebraska in enhancing education across the state. Our conversation dives into how this collaborative statewide network provides reliable and affordable internet and telecommunications services to K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and other educational entities. Learn about the initiatives, resources, and partnerships that make Network Nebraska a critical infrastructure for educational success and innovation.

Discover how Network Nebraska can support your educational institution by exploring their resources and considering membership. Visit Network Nebraska to learn more.

Summer Learning Series (Pt 3): Digital Citizenship in Action, AI in Education and More with Dr. Kristen Mattson

Dr. Kristen Mattson joins The Good Life EDU Podcast this week for the third and final installment of our Summer Learning Series featuring speakers who shared at Nebraska education conferences this summer. In this episode, Dr. Mattson provides practical examples of Digital Citizenship in action, delves into AI in education, and makes both topics approachable for all educators in our shared responsibility to create spaces for students to learn and grow as citizens in a digital world.

Links Referenced in the Episode Include:

Summer Learning Series (Pt 2): The Power of Global Connections, Canva Tips, and More with Tisha Richmond

Education author, speaker, and Canva Learning Consultant, Tisha Richmond, joins The Good Life EDU Podcast this week for the second of three episodes in our Summer Learning Series. In each of these episodes, we feature a keynote speaker from one of this summer’s Nebraska conferences to give access to those not at these events while also extending the learning for those who were there, live. Tisha shares with us her summer learning, speaks to the power of being a connected educator, praises Runza, and delves into some of the new features in Canva!

To continue to follow and learn more from Tisha, visit MAKE LEARNING MAGICAL!

Summer Learning Series (Pt 1): What’s Now and Up Next in Ed Tech with #ARVRinEDU Expert Jaime Donally

Fresh off of her keynote appearance at the Future Ready Nebraska Conference and following up a busy week at the 2024 ISTE Conference, Jaime Donally revisits The Good Life EDU Podcast to share some of her summer learning and where she sees technology for education trending next. Our conversation spans AI, augmented reality, virtual reality, and more — so don’t miss out on this opportunity to see into the future of ed tech.

To follow Jaime and learn more, visit ARVRinEDU | Jaime Donally | Professional Development

To learn more about Kai’s Clan (mentioned in the episode), visit Kai’s Clan – Adventures in collaborative coding for STEM and computer science (kaisclan.ai)

All Things Digital Learning: A LIVE Session from the 2024 Future Ready Nebraska Conference

In this special episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we bring you a live recording from this summer’s Future Ready Nebraska Conference. We recorded a session titled, “All Things Digital Learning,” which features Dorann Avey and Shaun Young with NDE and Bill Pulte of ESU 3 sharing their insights on current initiatives, resources, and collaborations taking place within Nebraska’s education community. The conversation moves frequently across a myriad of topics, and you can listen in to gain the same insights and learning opportunities as those who were present to participate in this engaging session.

ESU 3’s Maker Lab’s Impact Has Grown by 9x. Here’s Why.

In this inspiring episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we sit down with Dawn Ferreyra and Derek Gangwish, the educators behind the EMIL Maker Lab at ESU 3 in LaVista, Nebraska. Discover how this dynamic makerspace fosters creativity and innovation, providing students with hands-on experiences in 3D printing, laser cutting, embroidery, and more. Learn about the impact of maker education on student engagement and curriculum reinforcement, and how this is just one of the many ways our ESUs serve Nebraska education.

To learn more, visit https://tech.esu3.org/emil

An Educator’s Guide to Happiness: Science-Based Strategies for Joyful Teaching

In this enlightening episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we chat with happiness coach and motivational speaker Kim Strobel. Together, we explore Kim’s key message about the power of happiness and its profound impact on our personal and professional lives. Kim shares research-backed strategies and actionable insights that educators can implement to foster a positive, joyful environment in their schools and classrooms. Special thanks to Kim Strobel for inspiring us to prioritize happiness and well-being in education.

To learn more about Kim’s work and message, visit https://strobeleducation.com/

To access Kim’s Gratitude Tracker, visit https://strobeleducation.com/gratitude-habit-tracker/