PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning

Magnify Learning
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PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning

WHAT: PBL Podcast for School Administrators FREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for Administrators PBL Simplified for Administrators Helping School Leaders Launch Their PBL Vision Project Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and sustain PBL in their schools. Each episode breaks down real-world leadership strategies to help you build a thriving PBL culture, from crafting a clear vision to supporting teachers and engaging your community. Tune in for solo episodes with Ryan packed with actionable insights, as well as guest interviews with top educational leaders who share their challenges, wins, and best practices in making PBL a success. If you're ready to shift from traditional instruction to authentic, learner-driven education, this is the podcast for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and start leading the PBL movement in your school!

  1. 4D AGO

    Why is PBL Good for Kids? | E220

    This episode focuses on the benefits of Project Based Learning (PBL) for K-12 students. It explores how PBL can enhance academic achievement, social-emotional learning (SEL), and future readiness. Key Takeaways: PBL improves academic performance. Studies show that PBL can lead to significant gains in standardized test scores, AP exam scores, and literacy and numeracy skills. PBL supports social-emotional learning. PBL provides opportunities for students to develop self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. PBL prepares students for the future. PBL helps students develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and inquiry, as well as career preparation skills. Examples and Resources: Dixie Elementary: This school improved its state test score from a D to an A using PBL. Southport Elementary: This school, which already had an A, implemented PBL to improve employability skills for its high socioeconomic and ELL students. They then had the highest growth on their state standardized test in the entire state. Southside Elementary: This Title 1 elementary school also saw success with PBL. School Within a School: Ryan discusses a PBL program he started in a large middle school that led to increased attendance, decreased discipline issues, and improved academic outcomes for the participating students. The Lucas Foundation: This organization conducted randomized controlled trials in 2021 that demonstrated the positive impact of PBL on student learning. CASTLE (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning): This organization provides resources on SEL competencies. Book Recommendation: Ryan’s book, PBL Simplified, provides a framework for implementing PBL, including the six steps of PBL and strategies for grouping students. Book Recommendation: Life's a Project is another book that delves deeper into PBL implementation. Call to Action: Communicate the Why: School administrators should articulate the benefits of PBL to teachers, parents, and students. Encourage Risk-Taking: Administrators should support teachers in trying new approaches and provide resources and support for their efforts. Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of teachers and students involved in PBL. Next Episode: Topic: Neuroscience behind great learning, focusing on attunement and the importance of authentic PBL. PBL Research: https://www.lucasedresearch.org/research/research-briefs/

    19 min

  2. FEB 18

    Leveraging Social Media to Transform Schools With David Griffith | E219

    This episode of the PBL Simplified podcast features David Griffith, a content creator coach and former middle school teacher with over 1.2 million followers on TikTok. In this episode, Griffith discusses the importance of social media for school leaders and offers practical advice on how to use social media effectively to engage with the community. Key takeaways from the episode: School leaders need to be on social media because that's where the attention is. People are spending more and more time on social media, and schools need to be present on these platforms to reach their target audience. There is a right and a wrong way to use social media. Simply posting a few pictures and tagging the school is not enough. School leaders need to be intentional about the content they create and how they share it. Getting a coach can help school leaders accelerate their social media success. A coach can provide guidance on how to create engaging content, use the right hashtags, and target the right audience. School leaders can learn from other school leaders who are doing social media well. Instead of being intimidated by successful social media accounts, school leaders can study what these accounts are doing and try to replicate their strategies. Consistency is key for social media success. Posting regularly, even if it's just once a day, is essential for building a following and keeping people engaged. School leaders can use their smartphones to create and post content. There are a number of apps and tools available that can help school leaders create professional-looking videos and captions. Social media is a powerful tool for storytelling. School leaders can use social media to share the stories of their students, staff, and community. This can help to build relationships and create a positive image for the school. David Griffith's social media handles: TikTok: @davidgriffith07 YouTube: David Griffith's Music Instagram: @davidthedigitalcreator David Griffith's website and email: contentcreatingacademy.com david@contentcreatingacademy.com

    35 min

  3. FEB 4

    What is PBL? | E218

    Episode Summary: This episode explores the definition of Project Based Learning (PBL) from the perspective of three key audiences: students, teachers, and administrators. Host Ryan Steuer emphasizes the importance of tailoring the explanation of PBL to resonate with each group, highlighting the unique benefits they experience through its implementation. Key Takeaways: For Students: PBL fosters deep content knowledge by providing context and real-world applications for core subjects. It cultivates 21st-century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are highly sought after by employers. PBL empowers students, shifting them from passive recipients of information to active, engaged learners. For Teachers: PBL allows teachers to teach in a way that aligns with their passion and desired instructional approach. It provides a structured framework that incorporates components like PBIS, relationship building, and rigorous content, streamlining their efforts. PBL fosters stronger teacher-student relationships by creating opportunities for interaction and collaboration within the learning process. For Administrators: PBL serves as a unifying framework that can encompass various school improvement goals, such as equity, engagement, and academic achievement. It provides a vehicle for bringing community partners into the classroom, showcasing student work, and enhancing community perception of the school. PBL leads to improved standardized test scores by challenging all learners and promoting growth. It offers a solution to the challenges of personalization and differentiation, empowering teachers and reducing their overwhelm. Implementation Tips: Visit schools successfully implementing PBL to observe firsthand and gather insights. Build momentum by involving leadership teams, teachers, and parents to create a grassroots movement. Be patient and persistent in driving the change process. Call to Action: Rate and review the show to help other inspired leaders discover the benefits of PBL. Explore the "Binge PBL for Administrators" series for a comprehensive overview of PBL implementation. Tune in next week for a discussion on leveraging social media to showcase the positive impact of PBL with guest David Griffith.

    17 min

  4. JAN 21

    Turn Your School Around With Project Based Learning - Ashley Green | E217

    Ashley Green is a versatile educator with 19 years of experience as a language arts teacher, curriculum coordinator, and principal. She is the owner of Green Tree Educational Solutions, a consulting agency in Mississippi dedicated to helping individuals and organizations achieve their full potential. She also serves as an adjunct professor, training and preparing future educators. Green's "why" is to help people, including teachers, students, and leaders, reach their full potential. Keys to a Successful School Turnaround Green outlines three keys to successfully turning around a school: Communication: Clearly communicate how initiatives, like PBL, will function, including components, location, participants, etc. Modeling and Monitoring: Leaders should model the desired behaviors and monitor progress to ensure implementation. Correcting and Celebrating: Provide feedback and support by correcting mistakes and celebrating successes. CMC Squared Coaching Model Green's CMC Squared model (Communication, Model, Monitor, Celebrate or Correct) provides a framework for successful implementation of initiatives. Success Story: Increasing Student Engagement Green shares a success story about working with a fifth-grade ELA teacher to increase student engagement. The strategies included: Small group work: Implementing small group activities three times a week to provide more opportunities for student engagement. Background knowledge: Frontloading instruction with background knowledge to create an equitable playing field for all students. SAC Procedure: Utilizing the SAC (Scan, Annotate, Comprehend, and Show what you know) procedure to activate active reading skills and encourage student exploration of texts. Obstacles to School Turnaround Green identifies two major obstacles to turning around schools: Buy-in: Getting leaders to trust the process and buy into the proposed changes. Vision: Many leaders lack a clear vision for their school, which hinders progress. Overcoming Obstacles Green suggests strategies for overcoming buy-in and vision obstacles: Surveys and Interviews: Conduct surveys and individual interviews with stakeholders to gather information and understand needs. Retreats and Team Building: Host retreats and team-building activities to foster collaboration and build relationships. Shared Beliefs: Facilitate sessions for teachers to establish shared beliefs and values, creating a sense of ownership and accountability. Advice for Educators on Their PBL Journey Trust your inner child: Remember the importance of fun and engaging learning experiences for students. Prioritize students: Ensure students are at the forefront of all initiatives. Activate the three C's: Challenge students, make them curious, and show them that you care. Connect with Ashley Green Facebook: Green Tree Educational Solutions LinkedIn: Ashley Green Website: www.Greentreesolutions.org

    26 min

  5. JAN 7

    How to Gain Momentum for Project-Based Learning in 2025 | E216

    Podcast Summary: This episode provides three practical strategies for school administrators to gain momentum for project-based learning (PBL) in their schools. The three strategies are: Get started today. This means taking steps like visiting schools with successful PBL programs, engaging in book studies about PBL, or listening to podcasts on PBL for administrators. When visiting other schools, administrators should bring along key stakeholders like assistant principals, teachers, community partners, parents, and school board members. Create a grassroots movement. Instead of a top-down mandate, a grassroots movement encourages teachers to embrace PBL and advocate for it. A PBL Learning Team or Leadership Team can be created to visit PBL schools, receive training, and implement PBL in their own classrooms. By showcasing successful PBL implementation within their own school, these teams can inspire other teachers to adopt PBL. Design Days can be utilized to visit model schools, build three-year plans, and receive coaching for successful implementation. Provide robust training. Teachers need at least three days of intensive training with follow-up coaching to effectively implement PBL. Training should emphasize authentic PBL, where students solve real-world problems and develop essential employability skills. Authentic PBL engages students and teachers more deeply and leads to more meaningful learning experiences. Key Takeaways: Don't delay in taking action to bring PBL to your school. Foster a grassroots movement among your staff to create buy-in and enthusiasm for PBL. Invest in robust and authentic PBL training for your teachers to ensure successful implementation. Call to Action: Start taking steps to implement PBL in your school today, even if it's just small steps. Consider attending a PBL training or workshop. Visit schools that have successful PBL programs. Resources Mentioned: Website: whatispbl.com Podcasts: Binge PBL for teachers, Binge PBL for administrators, PBL Simplified for Teachers Downloads: PBL versus a project YouTube: PBL vs Project Next Episode: Guest episode featuring Ashley Green, who will discuss using PBL as a turnaround vehicle for schools and classrooms.

    18 min

  6. JAN 1

    The One Page Playbook to Transform Your Faculty Meetings | E215

    Transform your faculty meetings into the highlight of the semester! Imagine your teachers leaving every session not only informed but inspired and ready to implement Project Based Learning in their classrooms. This episode will equip you with the tools to revolutionize your meetings by shifting away from mundane announcements and passive professional development. Say goodbye to the old "sit and get" approach and usher in vibrant, interactive gatherings that truly reflect the teaching excellence you want in your classrooms. You'll learn how to energize your team—even during the February slump—with practical insights and a simple playbook to ensure your meetings are as effective as they are engaging. Join us as we discuss the power of giving voice and choice to educators, creating a collaborative and positive meeting culture that mirrors what we aim to cultivate in our classrooms. Explore our strategies for gathering valuable teacher input and fostering genuine collaboration through structured protocols like Chalk Talk and connections activities. We'll also introduce engaging protocols like the "Zones of Comfort, Risk, and Danger" to motivate your staff and inspire them to adopt similar practices with their students. Plus, don't miss our exciting new podcast offerings: PBL Movement for Leaders, PBL Movement for Teachers, and the binge-style series Binge PBL for Leaders and Teachers, packed with the knowledge you need for successful Project Based Learning. JOIN THE ONLINE PBL COMMUNITY https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc SIGN UP FOR THE MAGNIFY LEARNING NEWSLETTER https://www.magnifylearningin.org/newsletter-sign-up SHARE A PBL WIN! www.pblshare.com ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED (affiliate link) https://amzn.to/3VLsBtG SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST PBL Simplified Podcast Links FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Ryan’s Twitter (X) Ryan’s LinkedIn Ryan’s Instagram Magnify Learning Twitter (X) Magnify Learning Facebook Magnify Learning LinkedIn Magnify Learning Instagram BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up Some of the links above are affiliate links which means we get a small commission on anything you purchase using that link (at no more cost to you). As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

    15 min

  7. 12/25/2024

    Unlocking Success: Transforming Your Life Through Habit Stacking | E214

    What if the key to unlocking unparalleled success lies in the tiny, everyday habits we often overlook? Uncover the transformative potential of habit stacking through insights drawn from James Clear's "Atomic Habits" and BJ Fogg's "Tiny Habits." This episode will equip you with practical strategies for seamlessly integrating new habits into your routines, ensuring they become second nature. From overcoming imposter syndrome to aligning daily actions with your professional and personal aspirations, we explore how these small adjustments can create significant impacts.  Join us as we highlight how educators and leaders can use habit stacking to increase productivity and personal growth. Discover how intentional routines can turn prep periods into power hours, and learn why casting votes for the person you aspire to be is a game-changer. Whether it's committing to read a leadership book each morning or ensuring you're hydrated before tackling the day, these insights are tailored for those seeking tangible progress. Plus, get a sneak peek into our upcoming podcast series, crafted to provide educators and leaders with the stories, tips, and skills they need for success.JOIN THE ONLINE PBL COMMUNITY https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc   SIGN UP FOR THE MAGNIFY LEARNING NEWSLETTER https://www.magnifylearningin.org/newsletter-sign-up   SHARE A PBL WIN! www.pblshare.com    ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED (affiliate link) https://amzn.to/3VLsBtG   SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops   CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST PBL Simplified Podcast Links   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Ryan’s Twitter (X) Ryan’s LinkedIn Ryan’s Instagram Magnify Learning Twitter (X) Magnify Learning Facebook Magnify Learning LinkedIn Magnify Learning Instagram   BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up   Some of the links above are affiliate links which means we get a small commission on anything you purchase using that link (at no more cost to you). As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

    16 min

  8. 12/18/2024

    Mastering Intentional Goal-Setting for Success in 2025 | E213

    What if you could harness the power of strategic goal-setting to revolutionize your 2025? Join us as we unlock secrets to mastering intentional goals, setting you up for success well before the year even begins. We’re unveiling strategies that go beyond the mundane, helping you craft goals with purpose and vision. Our upcoming 2025 podcast offerings are designed to be your guiding light, whether you're leading the charge in a Project Based Learning movement or enhancing your classroom techniques. With tailored series like "PBL Movement for Leaders" and "PBL Movement for Teachers," we’re committed to delivering invaluable insights and practical strategies for both leadership and teaching excellence. We'll also dive into the art of personal goal-setting, offering frameworks like SMART goals and visionary tools such as vision boards to help you organize your ambitions across spiritual, physical, professional, relational, and recreational domains. By breaking these goals into quarterly milestones, you’ll achieve balance in personal and professional growth. Inspired by Dr. Nate Zinser's "The Confident Mind," we explore how writing down your goals daily can solidify your commitment and propel you to action. With our concise "Binge PBL" series, we aim to empower educators with a comprehensive, yet efficient, understanding of essential Project Based Learning topics, ensuring that both teachers and administrators are equipped to transform educational environments effectively.JOIN THE ONLINE PBL COMMUNITY https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc   SIGN UP FOR THE MAGNIFY LEARNING NEWSLETTER https://www.magnifylearningin.org/newsletter-sign-up   SHARE A PBL WIN! www.pblshare.com    ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED (affiliate link) https://amzn.to/3VLsBtG   SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops   CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST PBL Simplified Podcast Links   FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Ryan’s Twitter (X) Ryan’s LinkedIn Ryan’s Instagram Magnify Learning Twitter (X) Magnify Learning Facebook Magnify Learning LinkedIn Magnify Learning Instagram   BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up   Some of the links above are affiliate links which means we get a small commission on anything you purchase using that link (at no more cost to you). As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

    18 min
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4.7
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

WHAT: PBL Podcast for School Administrators FREE RESOURCE: WhatisPBL.com for free PBL Resources for Administrators PBL Simplified for Administrators Helping School Leaders Launch Their PBL Vision Project Based Learning (PBL) isn’t just for classrooms—it’s a transformative school-wide approach that starts with leadership. Hosted by Ryan Steuer, founder of Magnify Learning, this podcast is designed exclusively for school administrators, principals, and district leaders who are ready to implement and sustain PBL in their schools. Each episode breaks down real-world leadership strategies to help you build a thriving PBL culture, from crafting a clear vision to supporting teachers and engaging your community. Tune in for solo episodes with Ryan packed with actionable insights, as well as guest interviews with top educational leaders who share their challenges, wins, and best practices in making PBL a success. If you're ready to shift from traditional instruction to authentic, learner-driven education, this is the podcast for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and start leading the PBL movement in your school!

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