Trending In Education

In this enlightening episode of Trending in Ed, host Mike Palmer engages in a dynamic conversation with Edson Barton, co-founder and CEO of YouScience, diving deep into the transformative power of career education and aptitude assessment. Edson shares his own compelling origin story, reflecting on how his early struggles in school ignited a passion for revolutionizing the way we approach education and career guidance.   The discussion explores the shortcomings of traditional career guidance methods, emphasizing the significance of understanding an individual's innate aptitudes rather than relying solely on interest and personality tests. Edson and Mike tackle critical issues such as integrating career-connected learning into education systems, addressing the skills gap in the workforce, and the nuanced role of aptitude assessments in fostering inclusion and equity. Here's a link to the 2025 State of the Future Workforce Report cited in the episode.   Key Takeaways: The limitations of interest and

Is it "absenteeism" or is there a "new absenteeism?" Join us as we dive into groundbreaking research from Teach for America's Reinvention Lab featuring Colleen Keating Crawford and Izzy Fitzgerald, who are at the forefront of exploring the evolving landscape of student engagement. Here's the link to Colleen's previous appearance on Trending in Ed where we talk about the Lab's Crossing the Canyon research.   We tackle the pressing question: Why haven't post-COVID attendance rates rebounded? Colleen, Izzy, and Mike Palmer challenge the traditional view of absenteeism and introduce a fresh perspective that focuses on who is learning rather than simply who is present.   Discover the Five Profiles of Engagement: Engaged, Systemically Blocked, Real Life Learners, Checked Out, and In Crisis. Learn why it’s crucial to understand these nuances to effectively support today's students.   Key Takeaways: The importance of disaggregating the reasons behind absenteeism to provide more tailored support.  

In this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer talks with Deb Mallin, the founder and CEO of Mighty Doodle Inc., about the power of AI in transforming literacy education. Deb’s journey into education was inspired by her own experiences as a mother and educator, driving her to create Mighty Doodle, an AI-based literacy tutoring system. Mighty Doodle uses a series of engaging mini-games to help children develop essential reading, writing, and spelling skills.   Mike and Deb discuss the importance of addressing the literacy gap, the “science of reading,” and how AI can be used responsibly and effectively to support diverse, including neurodiverse, learners. We also explore the balance between compassionate teaching and the relentless pursuit of literacy for all children.   Key Takeaways: Discover Deb Mallin's personal story and the mission behind Mighty Doodle.   Understand how Mighty Doodle’s AI-powered platform helps children build foundational literacy skills through engaging mini-games.

In this episode of Trending in Education, we sit down with Dacia Toll, Co-CEO of Coursemojo, to explore the intersection of education reform and AI's transformative potential in K12 settings. Dacia shares her 26-year journey in education, from her early days as a teacher and principal in New Haven, Connecticut, to her pivotal role in scaling Achievement First, a network of 41 schools. Dacia discusses the challenges of addressing student needs and teacher support after the disruptions of Covid-19, and how Coursemojo empowers teachers with an AI-powered assistant that integrates with high-quality curriculum materials (HQIM) to drive student success. Key Takeaways: AI can enhance teacher efficacy and student engagement. Effective edtech requires co-design with educators and a focus on results. Coursemojo emphasizes social learning and teacher efficacy. Dacia Toll highlights AI's potential to transform assessment in K12. Why you can't miss this episode: Gain insights into the future of AI-driven personal

In this captivating episode of Trending in Ed, we reconnect with the dynamic filmmaking duo, Jaye and Adam Fenderson of Three Frame Media, to explore their latest impactful project: The Class.   Stepping back into the world of education after their acclaimed film Unlikely (here's the link to their prior appearance talking about it in 2019), the Fendersons' new docuseries, now airing on PBS, intimately chronicles the journey of six East Bay students and their dedicated advisor, Mr. Cam, during the unprecedented challenges of the 2020-2021 school year.   Delving beyond the headlines, The Class offers a poignant look at the resilience, struggles, and triumphs of students navigating their path to higher education amidst a global pandemic.   Through the series, we witness the profound impact of a supportive mentor, the power of community, and the enduring importance of empathy and grace in education.   Key Takeaways: The vital role of counselors, advisors, and mentors in supporting students' journeys to a

In this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer interviews Emily Coleman, co-founder and CEO of HAI Analytics Inc, about the intersection of data science and higher education. Emily shares her journey from a PhD in Psychology and Statistics to founding HAI Analytics, highlighting her passion for using data to drive decision-making in higher education. They discuss the importance of predictive analytics, the challenges and opportunities for data implementation in higher education, and the skills needed for success in data science.   Key Takeaways: The evolution of AI and its applications in predictive analytics.   Challenges higher education institutions face in becoming more nimble and data-driven. Strategies for developing effective dashboards and data infrastructure.   The balance between leveraging data for insights and maintaining data security and privacy.   Essential skills and advice for aspiring data scientists.   Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Episode: This conversatio

In this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer welcomes Dana Bryson, Senior Vice President of Social Impact at Study.com, for an engaging discussion on the intersection of education, technology, and social impact. This follows almost exactly a year from Dana's first appearance on Trending in Ed with Paul Gollash from ETS.  Dana shares her inspiring origin story, from her upbringing with activist parents who had the first legal interracial marriage in Virginia, to her work in public policy, beginning at the Kennedy School and even working with Jerry Brown when he was the Mayor of Oakland. The through line for all of this is Dana's passion for creating change. Then we connect this to her role driving Study.com's mission to provide affordable access to education through the initiatives she leads to address key issues in education today.   Key Takeaways: Discover how Study.com is working to bridge the gap in education by providing affordable and accessible learning solutions.   Gain insights in

In this episode of Trending in Ed, host Mike Palmer catches up with serial entrepreneur Avi Yashchin, the Founder of Subconscious AI, about his professional journey from Wall Street to the cutting edge of AI. Yashchin, who started his career as a high-frequency equity trader, offers us a unique perspective on the 2008 financial crisis and how it sparked his interest in understanding the “why” behind market fluctuations.   We delve into Yashchin's experience at IBM's Watson education business unit, where he worked on applying AI in education with early language models. We then explore his current venture, Subconscious AI, and its groundbreaking work using language models to replicate experiments in psychology, sociology, and economics.   We tackle the complexities of AI in education, discussing the importance of thoughtful integration to maximize learning outcomes. We also address the ethical considerations of AI research, including the fascinating responses of LLMs to questions of harm and consent.

In this episode of Trending in Education, we welcome Auditi Chakravarty, CEO of the Advanced Education Research and Development Fund (AERDF), to explore the cutting edge of education R&D. We begin by tracing Auditi's journey from a high school English teacher to a leader in curriculum and assessment development, with stops at Kaplan and the College Board, where she helped shape major programs like AP and the redesigned SAT.   Now, at the helm of AERDF, Auditi is driving a new approach to R&D in education, one that models itself on advanced research project agencies like DARPA, emphasizing cross-sector collaboration and a focus on breakthrough innovations. We dive into AERDF's four key programs, including the groundbreaking AugmentEd, which explores the role of AI in augmenting teaching and learning. We also discuss EF+Math, Assessment for Good, and Reading Reimagined, each tackling critical challenges in education with a focus on evidence-based solutions.   Key Takeaways: Discover AERDF's innovative

We're thrilled to bring you another engaging episode recorded live at SXSW EDU in Austin, Texas! Join Trending in Ed host Mike Palmer as he sits down with Lindsay Whorton, President of the Holdsworth Center, to explore innovative approaches to educational leadership, innovation, and the future of K-12.   Lindsay shares her inspiring journey from college hoops to teaching to leading a cutting-edge organization that's transforming how we develop and support educational leaders. We discuss the critical need to invest in people, move beyond traditional professional development, and reimagine the roles of principals and superintendents.   Key takeaways include: The importance of generational investments in educators to achieve high levels of student success.   A deep dive into innovative leadership development models that move beyond traditional methods.   A fresh perspective on the evolving role of the superintendent, from "chief teacher" to a community-focused "mayor" figure focused on civic engagem

In this dynamic episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer connects with Dana Stephenson, co-founder and CEO of Riipen, live from SXSW EDU in Austin. We dive into how Riipen is revolutionizing higher education and the workforce by tackling the critical experience gap head-on. Discover how their innovative platform seamlessly connects students and companies through impactful, skill-specific projects. Dana shares the compelling origin story behind Riipen, revealing the challenges that he and his business partner witnessed among their peers—the struggle to gain that crucial first work experience. Learn how this inspired the creation of Riipen, a platform that's embedding project-based learning directly into a higher ed curriculum, providing students with invaluable real-world experience, vital professional connections, and essential career clarity. Why You Can't Miss This Episode: For Students: Uncover how to get a head start on your career, build a powerful portfolio, and gain the confidence and skil

In this episode of Trending in Education, we explore the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and resilience in education. We speak with Dr. Horacio Sanchez, the founder and CEO of Resiliency, Inc, about his groundbreaking work with K-12 systems.   We dive into Dr. Sanchez's origin story and learn how his early work as the youngest director of mental health in North Carolina led him to develop a resiliency-based treatment model for at-risk kids. We discuss how increasing protective factors, like positive relationships, can improve brain function and foster resilience, even in those not naturally resilient. We also explore the neuroscience of empathy and how it can be developed in students.   We also tackle critical issues such as the impact of poverty on brain development and the challenges of teaching in today's environment. We discuss the importance of understanding the neuroscience of bias and how it can be addressed in schools. Finally, we consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI

Join us for a dynamic live recording from the Podcast Stage at SXSW EDU 2025! We're diving into the hottest trends shaping the future of education with a panel of experts. Mike Palmer, host of Trending in Ed and Founder of Palmer Media, leads a lively discussion with Mike Yates from Teach for America's Reinvention Lab, who shares his insights on AI and social media. Jenn Stredler, Managing Director of Common Group, brings her expertise on the intersection of education, workforce, and talent. Julia Shatilo, Programming Director for SXSW EDU, offers a unique perspective on the trends driving innovation in education based on what's submitted and chosen for the conference.   We explore a wide range of topics, including the growing importance of micro schools, the impact of new media on learning, the evolving landscape of Career and Technical Education (CTE), and the double-edged sword of AI in the talent marketplace. We also tackle critical questions about ethical AI use, the reimagining of higher education, an

Join us for a special episode of Trending in Education recorded live from the LEGO Education Curiosity Park at SXSW EDU.   We’re diving deep into the world of playful learning and the rollout of LEGO Education Science with Dr. Jenny Nash, Head of Impact Education at LEGO. In this fun and insightful conversation, we explore the latest from LEGO Education with a special appearance from host Mike Palmer's six-year-old son, Matthew, who joins in the fun, building and creating with LEGOs as we chat! You'll hear from Mike's wife and occasional Co-Host, Dr. Robin Naughton, who weighs in as a Librarian and Information Scientist at Queens College where she's thinking about Teacher Training and Maker Spaces. Note: there's a bit of the conference buzz in the background, but that's part of the magic – capturing the excitement of learning and discovery in action.   Dr. Nash, a true legend in the field, shares her expertise on problem-based learning and science education while describing LEGO's innovative approach

Join us for a recap of SXSW EDU 2025! Host Mike Palmer shares his takeaways from the conference, including highlights from the panel discussion he hosted on the podcast stage. Catch highlights from interviews with Dr. Jenny Nash from LEGO Education, Dana Stephenson from Riipen, and Lindsay Whorton from The Holdsworth Center, as Mike shares his experiences attending the conference with his wife and 6-year-old son. Palmer discusses the importance of hands-on learning with Nash and Stephenson and gets into the role of AI in education and transformations in the workforce with Stephenson and Whorton. Subscribe to the feed so you don't miss upcoming episodes including our amazing panel session with Mike Yates, Jenn Stredler, and Julia Shatilo, and Mike's interviews in upcoming episodes with Jenny, Lindsay, and Dana and more. Key takeaways: The importance of hands-on learning and engagement in education: Palmer discusses the importance of hands-on learning and engagement in education with Nash and Stephenson.

Jarian Kerekes, President of the Equitable Foundation, joins Mike Palmer on Trending in Education to share his personal and professional journey, highlighting the transformative power of education and the importance of finding one's passion. From his challenging upbringing in rural Virginia to his impactful work at the Equitable Foundation, Kerekes' story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to opening up higher education pathways for underserved students. Here's the link to NCAN also discussed in the episode.   Kerekes discusses the Equitable Foundation's multifaceted approach to education, encompassing college and career readiness for students, support for K-12 educators, and initiatives aimed at fostering vibrant and healthy communities. He delves into the foundation's scholarship program, which has helped over 7,300 scholars access post-secondary education, with a particular focus on BIPOC and first-generation students. Throughout the episode, Kerekes provides valuable insights

In today's episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer sits down with Amy Lomellini, the Director of Accessibility for Anthology. Lomellini shares her personal journey and how it led her to become a passionate advocate for accessibility in educational technology.   Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intersection of assistive technology, artificial intelligence, and universal design for learning (UDL). Lomellini discusses the transformative potential of AI in empowering individuals with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of keeping humans in control of these technologies.   This episode is a must-listen for educators, instructional designers, and anyone interested in creating inclusive learning experiences. Lomellini's expertise and personal experiences offer a unique perspective on the future of education and the role of technology in fostering accessibility for all.   Key Takeaways AI has the potential to revolutionize accessibility in education, but it's crucial to ma

Dr. Kenneth Carter, a clinical psychologist and professor, returns to Trending in Education to discuss his work as the founder of Emory University's Center for Public Scholarship and Engagement. Carter and host Mike Palmer explore the challenges and opportunities of translating academic knowledge into accessible and engaging content for the public.   Key takeaways: The Center for Public Scholarship and Engagement at Emory University aims to bridge the gap between academia and the public by helping scholars communicate their research in clear and accessible ways.   The Center hosts events such as the Ideas Festival Emory and the Public Scholarship Academy, which provide scholars with training in media, podcasting, and storytelling.   Carter emphasizes the importance of listening, empathy, and understanding the audience's needs in effective public scholarship.   Why you should listen: This episode provides valuable insights into the importance of public scholarship and the role of academics in ma

Dr. Allison Scott, CEO of the Kapor Foundation, joins Mike Palmer on Trending in Education to discuss the crucial intersection of technology, education, and equity. The conversation explores the persistent lack of diversity in the tech industry and the urgent need to prepare students for the AI-driven future. Dr. Scott emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, ethical considerations, and creating a more inclusive tech ecosystem that benefits everyone. This episode offers valuable insights for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the transformative power of technology and its impact on society. We reference the WEF Future of Jobs Report and the Kapor's Guide to Responsible AI. Key Takeaways: The tech industry is not representative of the population. This lack of diversity limits innovation and economic opportunity. AI is rapidly changing the job market. The fastest-growing jobs and skills are related to AI, big data, and cybersecurity. Critical thinking and ethical considerations are ess

Steve Shapiro, the co-founder and CEO of Finetune and SVP of AI in assessment for Prometric, joins us to discuss the transformative potential of AI in education and assessment. Shapiro emphasizes that we are still in the nascent stages of AI adoption and that there is vast untapped potential for this technology to revolutionize how we design, deliver, and assess learning experiences.   Key Takeaways: AI is poised to revolutionize education and assessment, but we are still in the early stages of understanding its full potential.   The development of large language models (LLMs) has opened up exciting new possibilities for adaptive learning and personalized assessment.   The integration of AI in education requires a human-centered approach, with educators and learners working in tandem with AI tools.   The future of work will demand adaptability and a willingness to embrace lifelong learning, as AI continues to reshape industries and job roles.   Why You Should Listen: This episode provides va