ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged

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ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged: A science podcast for cool teachers

  1. 4d ago

    What Mystery Science Got Right That Most Classrooms Still Get Wrong

    Keith Schacht, co-creator of Mystery Science, shares his journey building impactful edtech tools including what failure taught him along the way. The conversation covers how timing and execution drive market breakthroughs, why honesty and humility matter in startup culture, and how student curiosity became the foundation for designing compelling science lessons for elementary learners. The episode also digs into the responsible integration of AI and personalized learning in classrooms, and why elementary education needs a rethink centered on individual student interests. Keith argues that understanding why something works, not just that it works, is what enables students to thrive in this world. A worthwhile listen for educators, entrepreneurs, and parents interested in where education is headed. Connect with Keith on his website KeithSchacht.com Visit his YouTube, Instagram + TikTok     ABOUT KEITH I'm one part inventor, one part explainer, and one part entrepreneur. I run a channel on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok under my name "Keith Schacht." These days, I primarily explain new technologies and what they make possible. I also spent about a decade of my career making videos that explain science to children through my company Mystery Science. I built a team of explainers that made videos for our website and for our YouTube channel MysterySci, which has more than a million subscribers. I sold Mystery Science to Discovery Education back in 2021. Prior to this I worked at Facebook for a short time where I ran News Feed and started and sold multiple technology companies.

    57 min

  2. Jun 4

    Sky, Sea, and Curriculum: How Hawaii's Indigenous Science Inspires Young Learners

    Unlock the secrets of Hawaii's indigenous science and discover how ancient navigators mastered the stars to voyage across vast oceans without GPS. In this episode, Dr. Leilani Nerveza-Clark shares how native Hawaiian navigators relied on star compasses, environmental cues, and deep observational skills, and how these age-old techniques remain powerfully relevant today as lessons in mindfulness, ecological stewardship, and social-emotional learning. Leilani is an experienced Kumu Kaiapuni ʻEpekema (Hawaiian Immersion Science Teacher) and Alakaʻi Haku Kurikulama Kaiapuni (Kaiapuni Curriculum Specialist). From studying native snails at the Bishop Museum to curating culturally rich STEM curricula for the Hawai'i Department of Education, the conversation explores how integrating native science and language can inspire the next generation of scientists and stewards of Earth. Hawaii's untouched environment is a living laboratory, brimming with undiscovered phenomena waiting to ignite young minds, and the state's unique cultural and ecological landscape offers a compelling blueprint for science education. Leilani highlights innovative projects in native species conservation, virtual field trips, and early childhood outdoor learning emphasizing how immersive nature connection is more vital than ever in a hyper-digital age. Whether you're an educator, parent, or policymaker, this episode delivers a clear call to action: leverage indigenous knowledge and inquiry-based learning to turn Hawai'i into a global STEM powerhouse.   ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi & Culture-Based Education Resources Wehewehe Hawaiian Dictionaries: https://wehe.hilo.hawaii.edu/ The essential online dictionary clearinghouse used for developing modern science curriculum in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. Ulukau: The Hawaiian Electronic Library: https://ulukau.org/ A digital repository of Hawaiian language books and educational resources supporting indigenous literacy and research. Hoʻolaupaʻi (Hawaiian Nupepa Collection): https://www.nupepa.org/ An archive of historical Hawaiian-language newspapers preserving ancestral knowledge on weather, environment, and history. Cultural & Scientific Context Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS): https://www.hokulea.com/ Learn more about traditional wayfinding, the star compass, and the legacy of voyaging. Maunakea Observatories: https://maunakeaobservatories.org/ Discover the world-class astronomical research happening at the summit of Maunakea.     ABOUT LEILANI Dr. Leilani Nerveza-Clark is an innovative Alakaʻi Haku Kurikulama (Curriculum Development Leader) and the Poʻo (Administrator) of the State Kaiapuni Distance Learning Program dedicated to shaping the future of science education in Hawaiʻi. A bridge-builder between worlds, she specializes in weaving cutting-edge modern STEM tools with the profound ancestral wisdom and environmental knowledge unique to our islands. By designing place-based, hands-on learning experiences, Leilani empowers educators to inspire all students to see themselves as the next generation of kiaʻi (guardians) of Hawaiʻi and our earth. When Leilani isnʻt busy transforming educational frameworks, you can find her digging through historical archives or exploring the natural wonders of our pae ʻāina.

    1h 11m
  3. Your Backyard Is a Lab: Hawaii's Lesson for Every Science Teacher with Lauren Kaupp

    May 20

    Your Backyard Is a Lab: Hawaii's Lesson for Every Science Teacher with Lauren Kaupp

    Most people overlook Hawaii's cutting-edge science — but not our guest, Lauren Kaupp. She reveals how the islands are a global scientific powerhouse, with research from volcanoes to coral reefs that will blow your mind. Whether you're a teacher, student, or science enthusiast, this episode uncovers the extraordinary science happening right in Hawaii's backyard and why it should inspire your next adventure or lesson plan. Lauren shares her journey from DOE specialist to passionate connector of Hawaii's scientific community, revealing the hidden gems that make Hawaii a world-class lab for space, oceanography, and earth sciences. You'll discover the unique biomes that exist nowhere else, deep-sea ecology workshops that wow teachers, and how Hawaii's research facilities are shaping the future of STEM education. We break down the challenges of curriculum relevance, assessment myths, and the power of curiosity-driven learning—arming you with practical ideas to ignite that same passion in young learners. In this episode, you'll learn how phenomena like tidal waves, volcano eruptions, and optical illusions aren't just awe-inspiring—they're powerful teaching tools that foster wonder, creativity, and critical thinking. Lauren discusses how connecting science to local place and culture can transform classrooms into vibrant hubs of exploration. Plus, gain insight into how real-world research, like studying bagworms or navigating the tricky world of assessments, can inspire lifelong curiosity and problem-solving skills. Why does this matter? Because the next generation of scientists, engineers, and thinkers starts with inspired teachers and engaging lessons rooted in their environment. Hawaii's science resources—completely accessible and staggering in scope—are a goldmine waiting to be tapped. Ignoring this opportunity risks missing out on cultivating the problem-solvers of tomorrow.Perfect for educators, parents, or anyone fascinated by how the natural world shapes our thinking and future. Whether you're tuning in from Hawaii or anywhere else, this episode will open your eyes to the incredible science nestled in your local landscape—and how you can use it to spark curiosity in every age. Dive in and discover why Hawaii truly punches above its weight as a scientific giant.         ABOUT LAUREN Lauren Kaupp, MS, EdD is the director of the University of Hawai'i STEM Pre-Academy, which fosters student interest, engagement, and learning in STEM by connecting University of Hawai'i STEM research and innovation with K–12 classrooms. In her second semester of college, Lauren started working at the Chemistry Tutorial Center at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), and has been involved in STEM education ever since. Her interest in science education deepened while in graduate school at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa (UHM), through volunteering at outreach events and at the Waikīkī Aquarium. Lauren then taught high school chemistry and physics at the University Laboratory School, as well as science enrichment courses for elementary and middle school students. In addition to classroom teaching and informal education, Lauren was involved in collaborative curriculum development in Marine Science and Physics in the College of Education at UHM. Over the course of her career, she has also provided hundreds of presentations and professional development sessions for teachers, administrators, and other educators, on topics including scientific inquiry, the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), curriculum, assessment, and Federal regulatory requirements and compliance. Lauren has an interest in educational leadership, policy, and planning. At the State of Hawai'i Department of Education, Lauren provided strategic leadership in NGSS adoption and implementation, helped to develop a state-level Curriculum Management System and Instructional Materials Approval Process, and created the framework for a newly adopted Federal program. Lauren earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from UMBC, a Master of Science in Oceanography from UHM, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California.

    1h 17m
  4. The K-5 Science Gap Nobody's Talking About

    May 13

    The K-5 Science Gap Nobody's Talking About

    Coral Zayas, a K-5 science and inquiry-based learning expert, reveals how building strong foundational skills in elementary school can prevent the cascading gaps that hold students back in later grades. She shares her framework for teaching physical, life, and earth science in ways that spark curiosity and foster real-world problem solving—including three types of project-based learning and how to integrate literacy, math, and social studies into science for deeper understanding. From practical strategies for multilingual and neurodiverse learners to leveraging outdoor and community-based learning, Coral shows how modest investments and creative thinking can unlock powerful experiences. She also tackles how schools can simplify assessments, reduce testing overload, and build a culture of curiosity through professional learning networks and intentional curriculum design. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for equitable hands-on learning, this episode challenges the status quo and delivers actionable insights to revolutionize science teaching from kindergarten through fifth grade. Order Coral's book  Coral's podcast https://www.youtube.com/@CoralZayas  Coral's LinkedIn https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/coralzayas    And Instagram is https://www.instagram.com/thrive_with_coral      ABOUT CORAL Coral Zayas, M.S., is the author of Teaching K-5 Science with over 15 years of experience spanning K-12 STEM education, bilingual instruction, higher education, and teacher professional development. Throughout her career, she has served as a teacher, instructional coach, curriculum designer, college lecturer, program manager, and education policy fellow. Coral specializes in designing cross-disciplinary curricula that integrate science, social studies, problem-based learning, and education technology. She centers global education perspectives and research-based strategies to engage diverse learners, particularly multilingual and neurodivergent students across all classroom settings. As a recognized voice in education, Coral has presented at local and national conferences including ISTE, the Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT), and the Austin Area Association for Bilingual Education (AAABE). She has contributed to education policy discussions as a fellow and panelist with Teach Plus Texas, Leadership ISD (Texas), and other organizations. Coral believes science classrooms serve as bridges to global problem-solving and remains committed to empowering educators with tools that inspire curiosity, innovation, and lifelong learning. She earned her Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology from Purdue University and her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Elon University.

    58 min
  5. What Micro Schools Can Teach Us All About Personalized Learning

    May 6

    What Micro Schools Can Teach Us All About Personalized Learning

    Great teachers know that every student learns differently—and many are already finding creative ways to personalize learning within their classrooms. So what happens when you shrink the class size way down and rethink the structure from the ground up? In this episode, Kaity Broadbent, co-founder of Prenda, takes us inside the world of micro schooling—small, community-based learning environments gaining traction with families post-COVID. You'll hear how Prenda's model is built around ideas many experienced educators already champion: student agency, mastery-based progression, and meeting kids where they are. Kaity shares how guides from diverse backgrounds—including career teachers—create flexible, neighborhood-based spaces where kids build autonomy and critical thinking alongside academics. We also dig into how AI tools are being used thoughtfully in these settings to personalize learning, track progress in real time, and support students with diverse needs like dyslexia or ADHD—practical insights that apply whether you're in a traditional classroom or exploring alternative models. Kaity discusses what's drawing families toward smaller settings, how technology can amplify what good teaching already looks like, and what this shifting landscape means for educators and parents alike. If you're a teacher curious about micro schools, a parent exploring options, or anyone interested in where education is headed, this conversation is worth your time. The ideas here aren't about replacing great teaching—they're about expanding what's possible. Follow Kaity on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kaity_forthekids/  Follow Prenda on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/prendalearn/  https://www.prenda.com/    ABOUT KAITY Kaity Broadbent serves as Head of Learning at Prenda, an organization that is reimagining K–8 education through microschools that prioritize connection, personalization, and student ownership. Prenda has supported more than 1,000 individuals in launching their own microschools, expanding access to small, community-based learning environments across the country. In her role, Kaity leads the development of Prenda's learning model and curriculum, focusing on mastery-based, personalized learning, and neuro-supportive practices that help children thrive.

    1h 10m
  6. From Chalkboards to Chatbots: Evaluating Student Thinking and the Hidden Power of Question-Asking

    Apr 22

    From Chalkboards to Chatbots: Evaluating Student Thinking and the Hidden Power of Question-Asking

    Unlock the secrets to navigating AI in education and beyond—this episode reveals how mastering clear communication, purposeful questioning, and strategic tech use can transform learning and teaching. If you're a teacher, school leader, parent, or curious learner feeling overwhelmed by AI's rapid rise, this episode is your essential guide to turning challenges into opportunities. Kip Glazer, a visionary education leader and author of Ready to Lead with AI, shares how the true power of AI depends on the quality of our questions, writing, and human connection. He emphasizes that AI won't replace educators but can elevate teaching when we understand its role in fostering inquiry, creativity, and empathy. You'll discover why being an excellent writer and questioner is the cornerstone for leveraging AI effectively in schools, and how physical engagement and community are irreplaceable in meaningful learning.Why does it matter? Without understanding how to craft questions and communicate clearly, we risk letting AI amplify existing gaps or create new divides in education. But with the right mindset, educators can harness AI as a powerful collaborator—cutting through tedium, accelerating conceptual understanding, and nurturing the social and emotional aspects of learning that machines can't replicate. This episode is perfect for educators eager to adapt, parents wanting to understand what AI means for their kids, and leaders committed to building resilient, future-proof schools. Kip Glazer's insights challenge us to rethink what it means to be literate in the age of AI—equipping you to lead with confidence, curiosity, and compassion in the digital age.   Buy Kip's book here     ABOUT KIP Kip Glazer is the author of Ready to Lead with AI: A Practical Guide for School Leaders and the current principal of Mountain View High School in Silicon Valley. Over the course of her career, she has served as a classroom teacher, technology coach, and school leader, bringing more than two decades of experience across every level of a school community. Since earning her doctorate in Learning Technologies from Pepperdine University in 2015, she has collaborated with learning science researchers and practitioners to bring high-quality research directly into schools. She served as a practitioner advisor for Educator CIRCLS, the practitioner arm of the National Science Foundation-funded Center for Integrative Research in Computing and Learning Sciences. Considered an expert in AI in the PreK-12 space, she is part of the EngageAI Practitioner Advisory Board and the Common Sense Media Advisory Board. She is also a Google Certified Innovator who participated in the listening sessions that shaped the U.S. Department of Education's Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching and Learning and joined the panel for its public webinar launch. Of all her accomplishments, she is most proud of her two sons, both West Point graduates who are currently serving in the United States Army. You can reach her at kipglazer.com or on LinkedIn.

    1h 9m
  7. Every Student Is a Maker: Bryan Silver on Building a STEM Program That Lasts

    Apr 1

    Every Student Is a Maker: Bryan Silver on Building a STEM Program That Lasts

    What if your classroom could be a launchpad for the next generation of engineers, inventors, and community problem-solvers? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bryan Silver, the 2025 Hawaii State Teacher of the Year and an engineering and robotics teacher at Kalani High School in Honolulu. Over more than 17 years in the classroom, Bryan has transformed how students experience science — through hands-on fabrication, competitive robotics, and real-world design challenges that connect technical learning to the needs of their community. Bryan shares how he built a thriving program that spans classroom instruction, after-school robotics teams, and community-scale projects — including Innovation Station, a mobile technology lab that brings engineering experiences to schools and teachers across Hawaii. He opens up about what it takes to keep students engaged in STEM long-term, how to balance structured curriculum with student-led creativity, and why he believes every young person has the potential to be a maker and a problem-solver. Whether you're a veteran science teacher looking for fresh inspiration or a newer educator building a more hands-on, project-driven classroom, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and hard-won insight. Bryan's impact has been recognized with the PAEMST award, the Woodie Flowers Mentor Award, an Albert Einstein Fellowship, and national recognition from NCWIT — but his greatest reward, he'll tell you, is watching students discover what they're truly capable of.       ABOUT BRYAN Bryan Silver is an Engineering and Robotics teacher at Kalani High School in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, where he leads a dynamic program that blends engineering design, rapid prototyping, entrepreneurship, and community-centered problem solving. Over more than 17 years, he has built opportunities for students to engage in robotics, science research, fabrication, and real-world engineering through classroom instruction, after-school teams, and large-scale community projects. His work has helped students earn recognition at the district, state, and international levels in robotics and science fair competitions. Silver is known for creating innovative learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom. He leads multiple robotics teams, mentors student-led design and outreach efforts, and develops hands-on projects that connect technical learning with authentic community needs. He is also the creator of initiatives such as Innovation Station, a mobile technology lab that expands access to engineering experiences for schools and teachers across Hawaiʻi. A statewide and national leader in STEM education, Silver has served in numerous roles supporting engineering and robotics education, including work with FIRST Robotics, science fairs, educator fellowships, and national review panels. His contributions to teaching, mentorship, and service have earned him major honors including Hawaiʻi State Teacher of the Year 2025, the PAEMST award, the Woodie Flowers Mentor Award, Albert Einstein Fellowship, and recognition from NCWIT. Through all of his work, he remains committed to helping young people discover their potential as makers, problem solvers, and community leaders.

    1h 3m
  8. Balancing Chaos and Structure in Teaching

    Mar 11

    Balancing Chaos and Structure in Teaching

    Dr. Bryan Frenette, a high school science teacher and former researcher, shares his journey and insights into creating engaging and inclusive science classrooms. He discusses the transition from research to teaching, emphasizing the challenges and strategies involved in managing classroom chaos and fostering an effective learning environment. Bryan highlights the importance of hands-on learning with real-world measurements and manipulatives, as well as the integration of AI tools like real-time translation and infographic generators to enhance science instruction. He also addresses the significance of engaging multilingual students and supporting English language learners, while building student ownership through collaborative rule-making and setting classroom expectations. Bryan further explores the impact of the digital age on education, balancing virtual tools with traditional methods, and preparing students for a workforce increasingly dominated by digital skills and AI literacy. He reflects on the effects of the pandemic on learning and the recovery process, emphasizing the role of local phenomena and culturally relevant examples in science education. The episode underscores the importance of student-centered, real-world learning approaches, and the surprising success of chaotic classrooms for neurodivergent students. Bryan's expertise offers valuable insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities of modern science education, making it a must-listen for educators seeking to innovate and inspire in their teaching practices.       ABOUT BRYAN Dr. Bryan Frenette is a Canadian-born biologist who earned advanced degrees in ecology before transitioning to education. As a biology teacher at Norman High School, he focuses on inspiring students, promoting scientific curiosity, and supporting diverse learners. He emphasizes making science accessible and engaging, especially for students who initially feel they are "not science people." His teaching approach focuses on building curiosity and encouraging students to see science as a field open to everyone.

    1h 6m
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ScIC "Science is Cool" Unplugged: A science podcast for cool teachers

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