The EdShift Podcast

Kris Astle & Katie Novak

Research, strategies, and conversations for education. We‘re here to dive into educational trends and practices and to connect you with education leaders and innovators who are committed to shifting the fabric of education today, and tomorrow

  1. 03/28/2024

    Bridging the Digital Divide and Talking EdTech with Ed Fairfield

    In this episode, Kris and Katie are joined by Ed Fairfield to explore multifaceted edtech discourse, the digital divide, and emerging trends in education (ahem, AI).  Ed, a seasoned education leader and Director at Elementary Technology, shares insights from his diverse background, including his role as vice chair of NAACE, a UK-based charity dedicated to optimizing technology in schools. As they celebrate NAACE's 40th anniversary, Ed provides a glimpse into the organization's mission to empower schools and trusts in harnessing technology effectively. From discussions on the importance of understanding one's current tech landscape before implementation to navigating the complexities of change management, we uncover valuable strategies for successful edtech integration. We dive into the dynamic nature of the field, highlighting trends like AI and accessibility while emphasizing the need for inclusive and equitable tech solutions that deliver on thier transformative potential for today's learners.  Connect with Ed:  🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fairfield/ 🔗Web: https://www.naace.co.uk/ 🔗 Web: https://www.elementaryuk.com/   ------------------ 🗺️ Your Hosts: IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu LinkedIn Kris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/ Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katievnovak/   ------------------   [0:23]: Introduction of Ed Fairfield [1:04]: Who are NAACE [3:21]: The importance of understanding a school's current tech status before implementing new solutions [4:15]: The hallmarks of successful edtech implementation [11:16]:  The importance of future-proofing technology choices. [12:31]: Implications of AI in education [15:32]: Addressing the digital divide [20:37]: Making technology more accessible and inclusive [27:10]: Tech & personalized education  [31:02]: The best part(s) of Ed's day

    33 min

  2. 03/12/2024

    Navigating Authenticity in the Age of AI with Alex Gray

    In this hopeful and inquisitive episode, Kris and Katie welcome Alex Gray, an experienced educator and content creator. Alex shares insights into his platform DEEP Professional - Develop, Engage, Explore, and Progress, and explains how these "verbs" shape his approach to teaching and professional development, along with highlighting the need for AI literacy in schools to empower students to critically engage with technology and navigate its implications responsibly. Alex discusses his journey into content creation during the lockdown, emphasizing the importance of continually developing skills and exploring new avenues for growth. He shares his perspective on education and the need to focus on enhancing performance rather than aiming for perfection, advocating for a mindset of progress over perfection. We also dive into the challenges of navigating the digital landscape and the importance of authenticity in a world where social media often presents curated snapshots of success.  Find Alex, including DEEP Professional and the International Classroom at the links below, and don't forget to follow, subscribe, and review EdShift!    🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergray84/ 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ticpodcast 🔗 Website: https://coursesdeepprofessional.com/   ------------------ 🗺️ Your Hosts: IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu LinkedIn Kris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/ Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katievnovak/   ------------------ [01:31]: Explaining DEEP [03:57]: Practice makes progress and why this matters [07:51]: Don't be outstanding, perform [08:40]: Modelling authenticity [11:04]: AI importance and risks [13:32]: Ideas and advice for using AI [17:23]: Conversing with AI [21:00]: Importance of human connection and critical thinking  [35:05]: The best part of Alex's day

    38 min

  3. 02/27/2024

    Empowering Learners: A Multilingual Journey with Dana Gastich French

    Kris and Katie are joined by Dana Gastich, French of UpRiver Education. Dive into heartfelt stories and profound insights on the challenges and triumphs of teaching multilingual learners, and painting a vivid picture of students striving to find their place in the educational landscape despite language barriers. From tales of back walkovers in class to heartwarming gestures of creativity and inclusion, these educators reveal the profound impact of embracing diversity in the classroom. See how the work that Dana does helps to turn challenges into opportunities for teachers and students. We discuss the immense value in fostering cultural awareness, and reshaping educational practices to empower every student on their journey to success.  Connect with Dana and discover more about the work that UpRiver Education does at: https://www.uprivereducation.com/   ------------------ Thank you for listening to The EdShift Podcast – connect with your hosts online, let us know what you think, and leave us a review if you love listening! 🗺️ Your hosts!  IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu LinkedIn: Kris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/ Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katievnovak/   ------------------ [01:00]: Intro and uncovering skills [09:00]: Seeking connection  [17:00]: Challenges facing multilingual learners [20:00]: Creating a sense of belonging and inclusivity  [26:00]: Focusing on culturally responsive practices, community engagement, and curriculum  [28:00]: the evolving nature of communities  [34:00]: The best part of Dana's day

    37 min

  4. 02/13/2024

    EdTech for Real Global Equity with Jody Britten

    The exciting, equity-focused episode features Jody Britton, the Director of Learning Technology at Team4Tech, a nonprofit impact accelerator focused on education in under-resourced communities. Jody discusses the organization's mission, which involves leveraging skilled volunteers to support nonprofits working in education,  emphasizing the importance of long-term commitments and community engagement to amplify the impact of these organizations. Jody highlights the challenges faced by nonprofits, such as limited resources and access to technology, and shares examples of impactful initiatives, including heartwarming stories of empowerment, where initiatives like Girl Pioneers and digital photography programs are empowering young women to unleash their full potential. We discuss the role of technology, including AI, in enhancing educational opportunities and addressing equity gaps. Learn more about the inspiring work of Team4Tech and its partners in promoting inclusive and impactful education initiatives around the world: https://team4tech.org/   Thank you for listening to The EdShift Podcast – connect with your hosts online, let us know what you think, and leave us a review if you love listening!   IG: @KatieNovakEdu LinkedIn: Kris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/ Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katievnovak/

    35 min

  5. 10/10/2023

    Brushstrokes of Wisdom: Art, Education, and Mental Well-being with Katie Southworth

    In this episode, Kris and Katie are joined by the incredible artist, Katie Southworth. Katie is an internationally collected abstract artist and educator based in Bridgeport, Connecticut. In a captivating conversation, Katie shares her journey from studying education to becoming a studio art major after a life-changing event. She delves into her teaching experience, earning a master's in teaching art, and the transformative power of art in her life during the pandemic. Katie discusses her unique creative process, where emotions, memories, and colors intertwine to create vibrant and emotionally charged artworks. She emphasizes the importance of expressing oneself and the therapeutic value of art, drawing parallels between her experiences as an educator and a full-time artist. We explore ways to incorporate creativity into education, highlighting the benefits of collaboration with living artists and encouraging students to express themselves freely. Katie's insights underscore the profound impact of art on mental health and well-being, urging educators to provide students with opportunities for personal expression and discussion. Discover more about Katie and her powerful artwork at www.katiesouthworthart.com, and find her on Instagram: @katiesouthworth_art.    Thank you for listening to The EdShift Podcast – connect with your hosts online, let us know what you think, and leave us a review if you love listening!  IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu X: @keightyen LinkedIn: Kris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/ Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/

    27 min

  6. 09/26/2023

    From Swamp Adventures to STEM Empowerment & Representation with Dr. Hassan Brown

    In this episode, Kris and Katie are joined by Dr. Hassan Brown, the CEO of Career Catalyst. Dr. Brown is passionate about bridging the gap between social justice, education, and emerging technologies. He has a wealth of experience in teaching, community organizing, philanthropy, business development, and tech. Career Catalyst is a college career exploration and inspiration platform that focuses on STEM careers and 21st-century skills such as communication and collaboration. Hassan shares his favorite projects, including interviewing a maritime archaeologist while sinking into a swamp in his new Jordans. Dr. Brown also talks about the role of technology in education, emphasizing the importance of educators bringing their passions into the classroom and promoting lifelong learning. He envisions a future where technology empowers all educators and learners, with a focus on democratizing knowledge and ensuring that marginalized communities have a seat at the table for tech development. Finally, we discuss how educators can bring their authentic selves into the classroom and inspire curiosity in students, highlighting the importance of finding balance and taking care of one's well-being to maintain enthusiasm for teaching. You can learn more about Career Catalyst at careercatalyst.org and connect with Dr. Hassan Brown at drhassanbrown.com. If you're interested in bringing Career Catalyst to your school or community, reach out to them through their website or social media channels. Thank you for listening to The EdShift Podcast – connect with your hosts online. Well, mostly Katie. Kris is on LinkedIn.... IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu X: @keightyen LinkedIn: Kris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-astle-a950ab3b/   Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katievnovak/

    31 min

  7. 09/19/2023

    Let’s Talk About It: Death Education with Austin Roy

    Join Katie and Kris as they delve into the world of death education with Special guest Austin Roy. Why don't we teach about something that will impact everyone? Austin, an English teacher, adjunct professor, and death education advocate, guides us through the often-overlooked aspects of teaching and learning about death, grief, and end-of-life logistics. Discover why death education is essential in preparing people for one of life's most profound experiences and how it can empower individuals to make informed decisions. Gain insights into addressing the emotional and practical facets of death, all while exploring various cultural and spiritual perspectives.  Content warning: this episode talks about death and grief.  Resources:  Download the Advance Directive forms for each US state: https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/by-state/ Five Wishes online platform that includes the Advance Directive for your state, and some other end-of-life care decisions (costs $5): https://www.fivewishes.org/   Connect with Austin:  Email: aroy@flintridgeprep.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-roy/   Connect with your hosts on social media - well, mostly Katie. Kris is on LinkedIn! IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu X: @keightyen LinkedIn: Kris, Katie

    32 min

  8. 08/17/2023

    Nurturing Creativity and Innovation: Chris Blais Live from ISTE 2023

    In Episode Two of the EdShift Podcast, hosts Katie and Kris chat with Chris Blais from the Calgary Board of Education live from the expo floor at ISTE 2023. Chris is a Teaching and Learning with Technology Specialist, focusing on igniting passion and supporting professional learning for teachers and administrators in a district with 131,000 students and 251 schools. Chris discusses the overwhelming yet exciting atmosphere at ISTE and delves into educational trends, including the investigation into virtual reality (VR) and its potential for content creation by students. He highlights the significance of empowering students to create and innovate, emphasizing enduring competencies such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. We also dive into Chris's work on the Level Up Calgary project, a collaborative initiative with Microsoft and the City of Calgary to engage students in authentic learning opportunities through Minecraft Education. Chris shares examples of student projects that have had a real-world impact, such as reimagining public spaces and inspiring actual installations based on students' virtual designs. Hear how Chris emphasizes the transformative power of technology and innovation in education, encouraging educators to focus on meaningful outcomes for students and to facilitate their engagement, excitement, and success. Learn more about the Level Up Calgary project here: https://www.calgary.ca/planning/level-up.html  And! Connect with Chris online:  X: @blaistech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-blais-79690129/   Connect with your hosts on social media - well, mostly Katie. Kris is on LinkedIn!  IG and Threads: @KatieNovakEdu X: @keightyen

    19 min
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About

Research, strategies, and conversations for education. We‘re here to dive into educational trends and practices and to connect you with education leaders and innovators who are committed to shifting the fabric of education today, and tomorrow

Information

  • Creator
    Kris Astle & Katie Novak
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2024
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    The EdShift Podcast