Why Distance Learning?

Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring
Why Distance Learning?

The Why Distance Learning? Podcast explores the transformative power of live virtual learning and its role in shaping the future of education. Hosted by three seasoned distance learning experts, this podcast delivers insights, promising practices, and inspiration for educators, content providers, and education leaders integrating live virtual experiences into teaching and learning. Each episode features interviews with content creators, industry professionals, field experts, and innovative educators who are driving engagement, equity, and innovation through distance learning. By challenging common perceptions and uncovering the realities of live virtual education, Why Distance Learning highlights its true impact and explores how it continues to evolve in an ever-changing educational landscape. Hosted by Seth Fleischauer of Banyan Global Learning and Allyson Mitchell and Tami Moehring of the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration.

  1. #52 Can You Really Learn Music Online? Debunking the Myths of Virtual Music Education with Caleb Smith

    -3 J

    #52 Can You Really Learn Music Online? Debunking the Myths of Virtual Music Education with Caleb Smith

    🎵 Can Music Be Taught Effectively Online? Exploring Distance Learning in the Arts Pain Point: Many believe that subjects like music require in-person instruction to be truly effective. Can students really learn to play an instrument, develop musicality, and experience meaningful arts education online? Solution: In this episode, Why Distance Learning? hosts welcome Caleb Smith, a professional musician and experienced online music educator. Caleb shares how virtual learning is breaking barriers, making music education accessible to students in remote communities, and fostering creativity in ways traditional classrooms cannot. He explains how online instruction differs from in-person teaching, how technology enhances musical immersion, and why local educators are key partners in virtual music programs. Key Takeaways: 🎸 Access Over Geography: Online music education connects students in isolated communities with world-class instruction. 🎼 Beyond the Notes: Music education online isn’t just about technique—it’s about inspiration, creativity, and cultural exchange. 📡 Technology as an Enabler: Innovations like OBS Studio, hybrid models, and latency-free platforms (like Gig Room) are redefining online music learning. 🤝 Empowering Educators: Effective online instruction isn’t just about students—it also supports local teachers in refining their craft. 🌎 Cultural Connection: Virtual learning expands students’ exposure to musical traditions, instruments, and styles from around the world. Action: Listen now to learn how distance learning is transforming music education and what educators can do to optimize virtual arts instruction. 🎧 Episode Links:  • Learn more about Caleb Smith’s work in online music education  • Explore Gig Room, a low-latency solution for virtual music collaboration  • Read about how OBS Studio enhances online music instruction 📌 Host Links: 1️⃣ Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell 2️⃣ Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world. 🎙️ If you found this episode valuable, please rate, review, and share Why Distance Learning? with your network!

    32 min
  2. #51 From Stopgap to Standard: The Rise of Virtual Learning with DLAC's John Watson

    17 FÉVR.

    #51 From Stopgap to Standard: The Rise of Virtual Learning with DLAC's John Watson

    Is distance learning just a pandemic-era stopgap, or does it have lasting potential in education? Virtual learning skeptics often assume that online education was a temporary fix—an emergency response rather than a viable long-term model. Many educators and policymakers still equate today’s online learning with the chaotic transition of 2020, failing to recognize how far the field has come. In this episode, John Watson, founder and CEO of DLAC and the Digital Learning Annual Conference, joins us to challenge these misconceptions. As one of the leading voices in digital education, John has spent decades tracking the evolution of online learning, from early adoption to the cutting-edge innovations shaping its future. Key Insights & Takeaways: ✅ Distance Learning Is Not a Pandemic Experiment—It’s a Proven Model.  • Many assume that online learning started with COVID, but John explains how digital education has been a long-standing movement with a robust foundation before the pandemic.  • The abrupt shift in 2020 was emergency remote learning, not the structured, effective virtual programs that have been evolving for decades. ✅ The Reality: Virtual Learning Expands, Not Replaces, Student Options.  • Online courses are often the only way students can access AP classes, dual enrollment, or specialized subjects.  • Hybrid and online programs are built on choice, allowing students to personalize their learning while maintaining flexibility. ✅ The Future of Education Is Hybrid, Not Either-Or.  • The next wave of education isn’t about choosing between online and in-person—it’s about blending the best of both.  • DLAC attendees are shaping innovative hybrid models, where online learning enhances, rather than replaces, traditional schools. ✅ Sustainability and Lifelong Learning Matter More Than Ever.  • AI, virtual reality, and digital tools are reshaping education, but sustainable models require schools to focus on personalization and long-term adaptability.  • John shares a powerful story of a student who went from nearly dropping out to excelling in a hybrid learning model, proving that online education creates futures, not just classrooms. Actionable Takeaway: Educators and policymakers must shift their focus from debating if distance learning has a future to optimizing its role in expanding educational access and personalization. The key isn’t replacing in-person learning but designing flexible, high-quality options that meet students’ diverse needs. 🔗 Episode Links:  • Learn more about DLAC and upcoming events: DLAC.com  • Explore virtual learning resources at CILC: CILC.org/podcast 📢 Host Links:  • Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.  • Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world. 🎧 Listen now to hear why distance learning isn’t just here to stay—it’s shaping the future of education.

    46 min
  3. #50 Virtual Students Feel Disconnected? Fix It with These Strategies from Dr. Breauna Wall

    3 FÉVR.

    #50 Virtual Students Feel Disconnected? Fix It with These Strategies from Dr. Breauna Wall

    🚨 “Distance learning isn’t the problem—bad implementation is.” 🚨 Too many virtual students feel disconnected and unseen, struggling in a system that wasn’t designed with them in mind. Educators want to create engaging, inclusive online spaces—but without the right tools, distance learning can feel like a barrier rather than a bridge. 🎧 In this episode of Why Distance Learning, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring sit down with Dr. Breauna Wall, founder of Collaborative Ed Solutions, to tackle one of the biggest challenges in virtual education: how to build an emotional climate that keeps students engaged—especially those with diverse learning needs. Key Takeaways: ✅ Why emotional climate is the #1 factor in student success—before grades, curriculum, or even technology. ✅ How online learning can be a game-changer for students with disabilities and marginalized learners. ✅ The difference between access and true inclusion—why simply providing a device isn’t enough. ✅ Proven strategies to foster engagement and connection in any virtual classroom. ✅ Golden moment: How one father’s frustration turned into a powerful breakthrough in student support. 💡 PROBLEM → SOLUTION → ACTION If your virtual students feel like they’re just a name on a roster, this episode will change the way you think about online learning. Discover practical strategies to build community, engagement, and real human connection—even through a screen. About Today’s Guest: Dr. Breauna Wall is the founder and CEO of Collaborative Ed Solutions, a Johns Hopkins University teaching associate, and an expert in special education and educational leadership. With over a decade of experience, she focuses on empowering educators and fostering inclusive, accessible learning environments. Her upcoming book on supporting special educators will be released in 2025. Guest Links:1. Dr. Wall's CollaborativeEd Solutions - https://www.collaborativeedsolutions.com/ Host Links:  1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.  2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world. Research Consulted: 1. Golden, Alexandrea and Emily N Srisarajivakul, Amanda J Hasselle, Rory A Pfund, and Jerica Knox. "What was a gap is now a chasm: Remote schooling, the digital divide, and educational inequities resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic." [PubMed Central] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10259090/ 2. Pressly, J.P. "Online Learning Can Help Minimize Racism and Ableism In and Out of the Classroom." [Edtech Magazine] https://edtechmagazine.com/higher/article/2022/05/online-learning-can-help-minimize-racism-and-ableism-and-out-classroom 3. Spievack, Natalie and Megan Gallagher. "For Students of Color, Remote Learning Environments Pose Multiple Challenges." [Urban Institute] https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/students-color-remote-learning-environments-pose-multiple-challenges

    38 min
  4. #49 From Isolation to Connection: The Key to Virtual School Success with Alicia Hughes

    20 JANV.

    #49 From Isolation to Connection: The Key to Virtual School Success with Alicia Hughes

    🚨 “We don’t care about grades or completion right now. We want every student to feel a connection.” 🚨 Too many virtual schools struggle with student disengagement, teacher burnout, and the overwhelming challenge of building culture in an online environment. Leaders and educators are left wondering—Can we really create a strong, connected school community without a physical space? 🎧 In this episode of Why Distance Learning?, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring sit down with Alicia Hughes, founder of Sparking Up Leadership and former principal of South Carolina’s largest virtual public school. Alicia shares the hard-earned strategies she used to turn an isolated, disengaged school community into one that thrived—with 98% staff satisfaction and a 90% graduation rate. Key Takeaways: ✅ Culture drives everything—Why strong relationships matter more than test scores in virtual schools. ✅ The power of small norms—How something as simple as a cameras-on policy transformed school engagement. ✅ Why most virtual schools fail at community-building—And what Alicia did differently to ensure students felt seen and supported. ✅ How to get staff buy-in—Strategies for inspiring teachers to model connection and engagement. ✅ Technology is a tool, not a solution—Why the right mindset matters more than the latest edtech trends. 💡 PROBLEM → SOLUTION → ACTION: If your virtual school is struggling with low engagement, staff turnover, or a disconnected student experience, this episode gives you practical, tested strategies for creating a thriving school culture—even when everyone is behind a screen. Guest Bio: Alicia Hughes is the founder of Sparking Up Leadership, where she helps organizations thrive in virtual spaces through leadership excellence and team dynamics. With over 20 years of experience in education, Alicia has successfully led initiatives to create strong cultures in both physical and virtual settings. She is the author of Sparking Up Leadership: Igniting Your Influence with Sparkle and Sunshine and is passionate about relationships, positivity, and empowering others. Episode Links: • Connect with Alicia Hughes on LinkedIn. • Learn more about Sparking Up Leadership at SparkingUpLeadership.com. • Explore Alicia’s book, Sparking Up Leadership: Igniting Your Influence with Sparkle and Sunshine. Host Links:  1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.  2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.

    37 min
  5. #48 Why Distance Learning Works for Environmental Education with Kasey Galylord-Opalewski

    6 JANV.

    #48 Why Distance Learning Works for Environmental Education with Kasey Galylord-Opalewski

    In this episode of Why Distance Learning, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring welcome environmental science educator and distance learning pioneer, Kasey Gaylord-Opalewski, to explore the intersection of marine science, education, and the transformative potential of live virtual learning. Kasey shares her journey from North Dakota to becoming a leading voice in environmental education, highlighting how distance learning can ignite curiosity and inspire action, even from thousands of miles away. Key Topics Discussed:  • The unique power of distance learning to connect learners with otherwise inaccessible environments, such as oceans and marine life.  • Kasey’s approach to interpreting complex scientific research into engaging, digestible content for diverse audiences, from teens to lifelong learners.  • Insights from Kasey’s work at Earth Echo International, including programs empowering youth to protect and restore the ocean planet.  • Reflections on co-authoring Defining Interactive Virtual Learning and Museum Education: A Shared Perspective and its ongoing relevance in framing effective distance learning practices.  • The challenges and opportunities of teaching live over video and how passion, adaptability, and technical skills create transformative experiences. Guest Bio: Kasey Gaylord-Opalewski is a marine science educator with over 20 years of experience in designing interactive virtual learning programs. As a leader at Earth Echo International, Kasey empowers youth and educators to take meaningful action for ocean conservation. She is also an accomplished author, co-writing a seminal article on defining distance learning practices. Host Links: Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world. Episode Links:  • Earth Echo International - https://www.earthecho.org/  • Journal of Museum Education Article - https://www.cilc.org/CILC/media/Documents/2-Defining-Interactive-Virtual-Learning-in-Museum-Education-A-Shared-Perspective.pdf  • CILC Podcast Page - https://www.cilc.org/podcast

    42 min
  6. #47 Virtual School for Gen Alpha Digital Nomads with Noam Gerstein

    23/12/2024

    #47 Virtual School for Gen Alpha Digital Nomads with Noam Gerstein

    In this episode of Why Distance Learning?, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring welcome Noam Gerstein, CEO of the Bina School and a leading expert in precision education. Noam shares her journey of creating a global, digitally native school that reimagines how education serves young learners, blending emotional connection, cultural diversity, and innovative uses of live virtual learning. The episode explores Bina School’s unique approach to play-based, personalized learning for students aged 4 to 12, with a focus on fostering global awareness and nurturing emotionally safe, collaborative learning environments. Key Topics Discussed: The importance of emotionally held learning spaces in live virtual education.How Bina School uses thematic biomes and SDG projects to create meaningful learning experiences.The role of adaptive content generation in balancing personalization and standardization.Building a global community for young learners and redefining what a school can be.Guest Bio: Noam Gerstein is the CEO of the Bina School, a pioneer in precision education and a thought leader in the field. With a background in history, technology, and social innovation, Noam has spent years researching global education systems and building solutions to meet the needs of Gen Alpha learners. She is a frequent speaker at education conferences and a passionate advocate for blending cultural diversity with cutting-edge technology. Host Links: Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.Episode Links: Bina School - thebinaschool.comContact Noam Gerstein: noam@bina.school

    41 min
  7. #46 Making Music Education Fun, Accessible, and Personalized with Patrick Boylan

    09/12/2024

    #46 Making Music Education Fun, Accessible, and Personalized with Patrick Boylan

    In this episode of Why Distance Learning, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring welcome Patrick Boylan, co-founder of Museflow, a groundbreaking music education platform described as the "Duolingo of music education." Patrick shares his journey of rethinking traditional music lessons, combining gamification, flow state learning, and AI-driven personalization to make music learning engaging, accessible, and effective. Key Topics Discussed: The origins of Museflow and Patrick’s inspiration to create a new approach to music education.The role of flow state in learning music and how Museflow integrates it into its design.Gamification as a tool to make practice engaging and rewarding for learners of all levels.The importance of sight reading as a foundational skill and how Museflow prioritizes it.AI’s role in personalizing the learning experience by adapting tempo and complexity to individual learners.How Museflow complements traditional music instruction without replacing the human element of teaching.Stories of success, including users overcoming fear of failure and finding joy in the learning process.Guest Bio: Patrick Boylan is a multi-instrumentalist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Museflow, a music edtech platform that reinvents the way people learn instruments. A lover of musical theater and passionate advocate for accessible music education, Patrick’s innovative approach bridges the gap between tradition and technology. Host Bios: Allyson Mitchell: Distance learning expert, gamification enthusiast, classics nerd, amateur astrologer, and proponent of engaging, student-centered education.Tami Moehring: Coordinator for the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC) and deep advocate of live virtual learning.Seth Fleischauer: Former classroom teacher turned founder of an innovative learning company, Banyan Global Learning, specializing  in the teaching of digital, linguistic, and cultural competencies. Seth also hosts another podcast, Make It Mindful, which explores transformative ideas in education through deep, thoughtful conversations that empower educators to adapt to an ever-changing world.Episode Links: Learn more about Museflow: Museflow WebsiteExplore live virtual learning opportunities at CILC.org.Connect with the podcast team: CILC Podcast Page.

    39 min
  8. #45 Student Engagement and Other Best Practices with DL Veteran Liz Huson of Erie 2 BOCES

    25/11/2024

    #45 Student Engagement and Other Best Practices with DL Veteran Liz Huson of Erie 2 BOCES

    In this episode of Why Distance Learning, hosts Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring welcome Liz Huson, Distance Learning Specialist at Erie 2 BOCES, for a dynamic discussion on the transformative power of virtual education. Liz shares how her passion for student engagement, differentiated instruction, and equity informs her role in curating live virtual experiences that break down classroom walls and spark curiosity in students across New York State. This episode highlights how distance learning creates meaningful connections, challenges traditional assumptions, and fosters empathy among students. Key Topics Discussed: Differentiation in Distance Learning: Liz explains how virtual experiences can address diverse student needs through choice boards, interest-based field trips, and collaborative learning opportunities.Student Engagement: Liz recounts a "golden moment" when a high school Mystery Skype session connected students in New York and Poland, fostering empathy and shattering stereotypes.The Role of Distance Learning Specialists: Liz discusses how she supports educators by providing access to high-quality programs, sharing practical advice, and encouraging teachers to embrace innovative tools.Overcoming Myths About Distance Learning: Liz challenges misconceptions stemming from pandemic-era experiences, emphasizing how interactivity and simplicity can transform virtual education into a powerful tool.The Transformative Power of Distance Learning: From exposing students to global perspectives to inspiring lifelong curiosity, Liz underscores why virtual education is essential in today's interconnected world.Guest Bio: Liz Huson is a Distance Learning Specialist at Erie 2 BOCES, where she supports educators across 22 school districts in leveraging live virtual learning experiences to enrich curricula, engage students, and provide equitable access to transformative educational opportunities. A former middle school English teacher, Liz brings her passion for differentiation and creative teaching strategies to her current role, ensuring that students and teachers alike benefit from the possibilities of distance learning. Host Bio: Seth Fleischauer, Allyson Mitchell, and Tami Moehring are dedicated to exploring the question, "Why distance learning?" through interviews with educators, content providers, and field experts who are transforming virtual education. Together, they highlight innovative uses of technology to enhance learning, build cultural competence, and connect classrooms around the world. Episode Links: Learn more about Erie 2 BOCES: https://www.e2ccb.org/Listen to past episodes: cilc.org/podcastHost Links: Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning uses technology to enhance digital and cultural competence in teachers and students.

    42 min
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À propos

The Why Distance Learning? Podcast explores the transformative power of live virtual learning and its role in shaping the future of education. Hosted by three seasoned distance learning experts, this podcast delivers insights, promising practices, and inspiration for educators, content providers, and education leaders integrating live virtual experiences into teaching and learning. Each episode features interviews with content creators, industry professionals, field experts, and innovative educators who are driving engagement, equity, and innovation through distance learning. By challenging common perceptions and uncovering the realities of live virtual education, Why Distance Learning highlights its true impact and explores how it continues to evolve in an ever-changing educational landscape. Hosted by Seth Fleischauer of Banyan Global Learning and Allyson Mitchell and Tami Moehring of the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration.

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