House of #EdTech

Education Podcast Network
Education Podcast Network
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Join Chris Nesi, an educator and edtech enthusiast, as he explores innovative educational tools, teaching strategies, and technology trends. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your edtech journey, House of #EdTech has something for everyone.

  1. 1d ago

    The Anytime EdTech Mindset: A Better Way to Think About Technology - HOET270

    The most important EdTech skill might not be knowing which tool to use. It might be knowing when technology can actually help. New apps, platforms, and AI tools will always compete for your attention. Trying to keep up with all of them isn't realistic—and it isn't necessary. What educators need is a way to recognize opportunities, think critically about technology, and decide whether a tool will actually make learning or work better. That's the idea behind the Anytime EdTech Mindset. In Episode 270, Chris Nesi introduces a practical framework built around seven ideas: Ask, Notice, Your Learners First, Try, Iterate, Make Meaning, and Evolve. This isn't about using more technology. It's about using technology with purpose. Whether you're facing a classroom challenge, looking to improve a workflow, considering a new AI tool, or simply wondering if there's a better way to do something, this episode gives you a framework you can return to anytime. Because you don't need to know every tool. You need a better way to think when a new tool, challenge, or opportunity comes your way. You'll LearnHow to stop chasing every new EdTech tool and focus on real problems instead.Why anytime does not mean all the time when it comes to technology.How to identify what you're actually trying to accomplish before searching for a tool.Why observation matters before trying to solve a classroom or workflow problem.How to put learners—not features or trends—at the center of technology decisions.Why starting small can make trying new technology less intimidating.How to learn from imperfect first attempts instead of abandoning an idea too quickly.How to determine whether technology actually improved learning or simply added technology.When to keep, change, or abandon a tool or approach.How the ANYTIME framework can help you approach future EdTech challenges with confidence. EdTech RecommendationTeacher Hive — teacherhive.app Bring the app you've built with AI. Teacher Hive gives it a home. Browse hundreds of apps made by teachers, or add your own. Paste the HTML from ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini, or drop in a link, and Teacher Hive makes it easy to use with a class, keep for yourself, or share with other teachers. Bee There by Tony Vincent — apphive.us/there A QR code scanner for classrooms. Reads the screen from across the room and opens links automatically. Show the code again for anyone who missed it. No ads, nothing collected.

    The Anytime EdTech Mindset: A Better Way to Think About Technology - HOET270

  2. Jul 19

    AI as a Thinking Partner in the Classroom with Tara Altherr - HOET269

    High school chemistry teacher Tara Altherr joins the podcast to explain how she's helping students use AI as a thinking partner instead of a shortcut. From classroom assignments that encourage students to challenge AI's responses to practical strategies for maintaining authentic learning, Tara offers a thoughtful perspective on what responsible AI integration can look like today. Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting with tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, this conversation will leave you with practical ideas for helping students think more deeply—not less. #EdTech ThoughtThe biggest change coming to education might not be another AI chatbot—it could be schools creating their own technology. As AI makes software development more accessible than ever, educators are beginning to rethink their relationship with traditional EdTech vendors. Could the future belong to schools building solutions designed by educators, for educators? #EdTech RecommendationChris shares a free NASA resource that turns satellite imagery into a creative classroom activity.

    AI as a Thinking Partner in the Classroom with Tara Altherr - HOET269

  3. Apr 5

    TrafficLiteEdu: How to Clearly Define AI Use in Schools - HoET268

    AI is everywhere in education—but clarity isn’t. I’m joined by Derek Tranchina, creator of TrafficLiteEdu, to unpack one of the biggest challenges schools are facing right now: not whether to use AI, but how to use it well. The real issue isn’t the tools—it’s the confusion around expectations, boundaries, and purpose. Derek shares how the TrafficLiteEdu framework helps schools bring clarity to AI use through a simple, practical approach—giving educators and students a shared language for what’s acceptable, what’s not, and what falls somewhere in between. If your school is struggling with mixed messages, inconsistent policies, or hesitation around AI, this conversation will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters. Because in the end, it’s not about banning or embracing AI—it’s about being clear.

    TrafficLiteEdu: How to Clearly Define AI Use in Schools - HoET268

  4. Mar 15

    Why Connection Matters More Than Technology in Education’s Future

    In this episode of House of #EdTech, Chris Nesi explores a powerful idea that could shape the next era of education technology: connectedness. While many conversations about innovation focus on tools, platforms, and artificial intelligence, Chris zooms out to examine the deeper force that has always driven meaningful change in education. From the early days of a single classroom computer to today's globally connected learning environments, technology has steadily expanded our ability to connect students, educators, ideas, and opportunities. Chris challenges listeners to think critically about how connection—not just devices—will influence the next generation of learning experiences. The episode invites educators to reflect on how they can intentionally design more connected classrooms, communities, and learning networks in 2026 and beyond. The Evolution of EdTechEducation technology has changed dramatically over the years. What Connectedness Really MeansConnectedness in education goes beyond Wi-Fi and devices. Technology as a BridgeRather than replacing traditional learning experiences, technology can serve as a bridge, connecting learners to knowledge, people, and perspectives that were previously out of reach. Why This Matters for EducatorsAs technology continues to evolve, educators face an important challenge: Are we using technology simply because it exists, or are we using it to create meaningful connections? Final ReflectionChris encourages listeners to reflect on their own classrooms and ask: How connected are my students to the world around them?How connected am I to other educators?How can technology strengthen learning relationships?

    Why Connection Matters More Than Technology in Education’s Future

  5. Jan 18

    The 2026 "Level Up" – 6 Tools to Transform Your Practice - HoET266

    Kicking off 2026, let's cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters: edtech tools that can genuinely move the needle for educators. Rather than chasing trends or shiny new platforms, this episode is about intentional, practical technology use that supports feedback, collaboration, creativity, engagement, organization, and student voice. #EdTech Thought: Shrinking the Engagement GapThe episode tackles the growing disconnect between students’ highly interactive digital lives outside of school and the passive digital experiences they often encounter in classrooms. Chris challenges the idea that more screen time equals more engagement and introduces the 80/20 Producer Strategy: For every 80% of the time students spend consuming informationEnsure at least 20% is spent creating something with value beyond the gradebook The core message: Engagement in 2026 isn’t about flashy tools. It’s about student agency. When students create, design, build, and solve real problems, the engagement gap begins to close. Six Tools to Level Up in 2026#1 Mote — Rethinking FeedbackFeedback is essential but time-consuming. Mote allows educators to leave quick voice comments directly inside Google Docs, Slides, and LMS platforms. Why it matters: Faster than typingMore personal and humanAccessible through audio + transcription Level-Up Question: Where in your workflow could your voice be more effective than your keyboard? #2 FigJam — Making Thinking VisibleFigJam is a collaborative digital whiteboard that turns learning into an active, visible process. Use it to: Brainstorm and organize ideasCapture student thinking in real timeSupport collaboration for both synchronous and asynchronous work Level-Up Question: How often do students visually share their thinking before submitting a final product? #3 Canva — Creativity That CommunicatesCanva has evolved into a full creation and communication platform, allowing students to demonstrate learning visually and professionally. Classroom possibilities include: Infographics and explainer visualsDigital portfoliosEthical media creation and storytelling Level-Up Question: Are students creating content — or just consuming it? #4 Curipod, Pear Deck & Nearpod — Real-Time EngagementThese tools transform traditional presentations into interactive learning experiences through polls, questions, and formative checks. Why they work: Immediate insight into student understandingNo extra gradingIncreased accountability without pressure Level-Up Question: How often do you pause mid-lesson to see what students understand right now? #5 Google Keep — Simple Organization That WorksGoogle Keep acts as a lightweight, flexible system for managing ideas, tasks, and reminders across devices. Great for: Capturing lesson ideas on the goCreating to-do listsSharing notes with colleagues Level-Up Question: Where could a simple system reduce mental clutter and free up focus for teaching? #6 Padlet — Amplifying Every Student VoicePadlet creates flexible digital spaces where all students can contribute ideas, questions, and reflections. Use Padlet for: Brainstorming and exit ticketsBackchannel discussionsCollaborative research and planning Level-Up Question: How often do all students get to contribute at the same time in a visible way? What’s NextChris also shares updates on: A 30-Days to Launch a Podcast short-form video seriesThe launch of SatCast, a new community-focused podcast project

    The 2026 "Level Up" – 6 Tools to Transform Your Practice - HoET266

  6. 12/21/2025

    2025 House of #EdTech Smackdown - HoET265

    The House of #EdTech SmackDown is back — and episode 265 delivers the 12th annual celebration of educator-shared tools, ideas, and inspiration. This fan-favorite episode brings together contributions from teachers, coaches, podcasters, and edtech leaders who share what made a real impact in classrooms and schools throughout 2025. From AI-powered writing feedback and study tools to creative multimedia platforms, productivity apps, and wellness tech, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can use right away. #EdTech Thought: Integration Isn't Seasonal I focused on a common trap in education: waiting for the "right time" to change practice. New semesters, new marking periods, or new years often feel like the natural moment to reset. But great technology integration doesn't follow a calendar. It happens incrementally, through reflection, experimentation, and iteration, even when the school year feels messy and unfinished. The takeaway is simple but powerful: You don't need permission from the calendar to teach differently tomorrow than you did today. The 2025 EdTech SmackDown Recommendations This year's SmackDown features a wide range of tools and ideas, spanning AI, creativity, productivity, assessment, and wellness. Chris's Recommendations Raina AI introduces creative ways to support studying and student engagement, including the concept of "Brain Rot" videos. Genially for interactive and gamified learning experiences. 123Apps as an all-in-one media creation toolkit. Chronicling America from the Library of Congress for primary source research. ICE - https://icemenubar.app/ Latest - https://max.codes/latest/ Rocket - https://matthewpalmer.net/rocket/ AI & Writing Support Beat the Computer (shared by Stephanie Howell) helps students improve writing by focusing on feedback and revision rather than replacement. Gemini is highlighted as a tools for educators, including writing Google Apps Scripts to automate workflows (Dan Gallagher). AI, Engagement & Study Tools Brisk Teaching and custom GPTs (shared by Dr. Dan Kreiness) demonstrate how AI can support instruction without removing teacher agency. Brainfreeze AI (Matt Miller) allows educators to build their own AI agents for classroom use. Creativity, Media & Design Canva Code and ongoing innovation within Microsoft 365 (Martin Byford). QuickTales (Batsheva Frankel), which blends audio storytelling with formative assessment. Adobe Express animations and digital signage workflows (Brian Carpenter). Content, Research & Instruction Wayground (Quizizz) for video-based instruction and AI-supported grading (Rebecca Autry). Desmos / Amplify phonics review tools (Linda Hummer). Derek Larson's Annual SmackDown Deep Dive No SmackDown episode would be complete without Derek Larson, who once again delivers a rapid-fire breakdown of tools and ideas educators should know about. This year's highlights include: Google Keep for organization and workflow StoryGraph for reading and reflection Instapaper for managing long-form content Teaching AI across multiple content areas Health and wellness apps like Capsule, Easy Fast, and Sleep++ Derek's segment reinforces an important theme of the episode: productivity and wellness tools matter just as much as classroom tools. You can explore Derek's curated archive of recommendations at https://appsmackdown.com House of #EdTech VIP: You The episode closes with the House of #EdTech VIP segment — and once again, the VIP is YOU the listener. I reflect on the fact that this podcast exists because educators are willing to share, contribute, and support one another. The SmackDown isn't just an episode; it's a snapshot of a professional community learning together.

    2025 House of #EdTech Smackdown - HoET265

  7. 11/09/2025

    Generative AI in K–12: What's Real, What's Risk, and What's Next - HoET264

    From lesson planning and assessment design to AI-assisted tutoring and district-wide policy development, Chris explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping teaching and learning, not as a replacement for educators, but as a partner in creativity and efficiency. You will gain insights into the AI tipping point, practical classroom applications, real risks (including equity, bias, privacy, and the loss of human connection), and how teachers can lead responsibly through this transformation. The episode also includes a timely #EdTech Recommendation highlighting Google Chrome's live caption and translation features, and an invitation to participate in the 2025 EdTech SmackDown, the annual listener-powered finale of the show. Key Topics Discussed #EdTech Thought: The AI tipping point: Why AI in education is no longer "next" but "now." How educators are using generative AI for planning, differentiation, and feedback. Examples of AI tools supporting English language learners and accessibility. Major risks of AI in schools — equity, bias, privacy, and the human factor. How to lead responsibly with AI in your classroom or district: Build your AI literacy Put pedagogy before technology Model ethical transparency Advocate for clear district policies Share both wins and failures #EdTech Recommendation: Google Chrome's Live Caption & Translate feature. Relevant Links & Resources House of #EdTech Episode 246 – The Harms of Generative AI featuring Tom Mullaney

    Generative AI in K–12: What's Real, What's Risk, and What's Next - HoET264

  8. 10/19/2025

    The Importance of Education Beyond Technology - HoET263

    In Episode 263 of the House of #EdTech podcast, Chris Nesi steps back from the gadgets, apps, and AI tools to remind educators what truly powers learning — education itself. While technology continues to reshape classrooms, Chris explores why human connection, curiosity, and lifelong learning remain at the heart of every meaningful educational experience. This reflective episode offers both inspiration and practical strategies for making learning more personal, purposeful, and people-centered — with technology as the support, not the driver. Key Topics Discussed: Why education matters beyond technology "Education is the great equalizer" — unpacking what that really means Educated by Tara Westover: A must-read memoir about resilience and learning The real power of learning: curiosity, connection, and contribution Historical examples of education changing lives (Malala, GI Bill) Practical tips for meaningful teaching in a tech-driven world 5 Practical Takeaways: Focus on relationships first — learning starts with connection. Make reflection part of the learning process. Model lifelong learning for your students and peers. Use technology with intention, not obligation. Connect learning to the real world. #EdTech Recommendation: Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover — a powerful reminder of education's transformative potential.

    The Importance of Education Beyond Technology - HoET263
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Join Chris Nesi, an educator and edtech enthusiast, as he explores innovative educational tools, teaching strategies, and technology trends. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your edtech journey, House of #EdTech has something for everyone.

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