Cool Cat Teacher

MARCH 4, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Today, I interview Alex Kajitani, known as the “Rapping Mathmetician.” He's the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year, and author of the book “You're a Teacher Now, What's Next?” In this podcast, we offer encouragement for new and old teachers, emphasizing those in their first year of teaching and how it feels to be at this point in the school y

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Cool Cat Teacher

MARCH 1, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In today's episode, we're celebrating World Compliment Day; I find myself reflecting on the profound impact that giving compliments can have—not just on the recipients but on us as givers. It's a journey of noticing the beauty in everyday interactions, whether the strength we see in others, like the resilience Johnny Cash found through June Carter's encouragement or the wisdom in Martin Luther King Jr.

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Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 29, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter What is the Learning Pit metaphor? How can this illustration be used with students to help them learn? On today's episode, fifth-grade teacher James Nottingham, author of Teach Brilliantly , explains how he uses this example with his students, discusses misconceptions, and explains to students how the learning process works helps them grow and be more successful.

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Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 28, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In this episode, we're diving deep into a crucial topic for every student but often overlooked in the curriculum: financial literacy. Brian Curcio joins us from Rapunzl, an organization dedicated to providing financial literacy resources for students and educators. If you've ever wondered how to prepare your students for the real-world challenges of budgeting, investing, and understanding debt, this episode is your r

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Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Today, I'll share six apps fo r digital note-taking and my experiences with each. I'll also give you a peek at my first testing of Google NotebookLM. I'll also give you tips on creating a workflow that works for you. The Notetaking Apps I'll Cover The apps I'm covering in today's “Tech Tool Tuesday” include Evernote , Notion , OneNote , LogSeq , Apple Notes , and Google Keep as well as Google NotebookLM.

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Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 26, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Today's message is one our sports-obsessed nation needs to hear. In this episode we dive into the extraordinary life of Dean Tolson, a man whose life changed from dribbling basketballs to championing education. Deanat age 32 and went from the high-flying courts of professional basketball to the halls of academics where he not only learned to read but achieved the unimaginable Master's degree.

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Schooling Achievement Education Education 212

Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 23, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In a world where the mental health of our youth is becoming an increasingly pressing concern, Dr. Brian Smith's podcast couldn't come at a more critical time. His enlightening discussion on ‘The Recipe for Student Well-Being' offers a beacon of hope, laying out a clear, actionable plan for schools eager to make a positive impact on their students' lives.

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Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 22, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In today’s show, Barbara Blackburn shares the concept of rigor in education. We discuss how rigor is not about making things harder for students but about setting high expectations and providing support to help students achieve those expectations. Barbara also explores specific examples of rigor in math, literature, writing, science, and history, emphasizing the importance of going beyond the text and providing evid

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Artificial Intelligence Math Achievement Science 219

Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 21, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In this episode, we tackle a topic that's often whispered in the hallways of schools everywhere with a mix of disdain and necessity: worksheets. I'll admit that I have often expressed my own dislike of worksheets, so much so that I rarely use them myself. However, we can all take the worksheets we do have and transform them from mere busywork as we reimagine them into dynamic, engaging learning experiences.

Math 218

Math Teaching Schooling Elementary 218

Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 20, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In this episode, Jesse Lubinsky, a former classroom teacher and education evangelist for Adobe, shares 10 awesome free ways that teachers can use Adobe Express in their classrooms. From using Animate from Audio to create animated reflections to using Text to Image to create generative AI art, Jesse provides practical tips and ideas for teachers to empower their students through creativity.

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Creativity Accessibility Education Education 261

Cool Cat Teacher

FEBRUARY 19, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Imagine standing at the doorway of possibility, where every greeting and every look holds the potential to uplift a child's spirit. This heartfelt episode is guided by the unwavering believe that every student deserves to be seen and heard – truly seen – in a world where we often rush past the small, yet important moments.

Communications 217

Communications Teaching Education Education 217

Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 23, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter The entrepreneurial spirit isn't confined to the world of business – it can thrive in every classroom, every day. It aligns seamlessly with dynamic project-based learning and captivates students through engaging classroom projects. In this episode, we're joined by Stephen Carter, author of ‘ Teaching the Entrepreneurial Mindset.

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Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 22, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Teaching is hard. And over time, it can become very easy to let frustration and history cause you to stop trying. I know, I know. Yoda says, “Do or do not, but there is no try.” However, in this case, Yoda was wrong. In teaching, we certainly have many things we try.

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Teaching Schooling Education Education 195

Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 16, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Kindness. We need more of it in the world today. Just meeting needs. And sometimes, people just need to be seen. They need to hear their name called. Have someone look them in the eye. Not a passing glance but to really look at them. Not a creepy-stalky weird look – just a normal human being “I see you” kind of look.

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Teaching Technology Education Education 266

Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 15, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter If you want to know how to start an eSports program in your school. Or if you want to know why so many schools are getting eSports programs, this episode is a must-listen for you. Welcome to another episode of the 10 Minute Teacher Podcast, where today we're diving into the game-changing world of scholastic esports.

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Education Education Schooling Achievement 241

Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 12, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter My students are writing a collaborative writing document following the principles I share in my book Reinventing Writing. But now I want to integrate AI feedback. Yesterday I demonstrated how to get AI feedback. But something odd happened. The kids kept coming to me for feedback.

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Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 11, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Yesterday, the World Economic Forum's “ Global Risks Report 2024 ” ranked AI-derived misinformation as a top global risk ahead of climate change, war, and economic weakness. NPR reported this morning that Taiwan is struggling with misinformation as its presidential election happens this Saturday.

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Artificial Intelligence Economics Math Schooling 254

Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 10, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter When we start discussing AI, they don't know it. Some teachers are curious about how to teach about AI. Maybe this glimpse into the resources and methods I use with my 9th graders (and later in the semester, 8th grade) will give you some ideas. You won't find this in a textbook (yet), but there are some excellent resources if you're looking.

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Teaching Schooling Curriculum Artificial Intelligence 252

Cool Cat Teacher

JANUARY 8, 2024

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter As we start this year, each of us is in different circumstances. I rebel against anyone with a “one size fits all” plan that works for everybody. Each of us has a different approach to life and planning. As I do my planning, I spend time learning from others.

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Flexibility Research Research Achievement 207

Cool Cat Teacher

DECEMBER 30, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter The ChatGPT Tech Support Advisor Custom GPT is stellar. Because it can write the code for you and also because I have specific things about my own personal setup that shouldn't be shared for protective reasons, I've summarized what I've done with it. ⚠️A Caveat: Be warned that you can mess up your computer if you don't somewhat understand tech-speak and how your computer works.

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Computer Physics Communications Artificial Intelligence 203

Cool Cat Teacher

DECEMBER 21, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter “In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Jay Schroder, author of “ Teach From Your Best Self, A Guide to Thriving in the Classroom. ” With this in mind, we dive into a critical yet often-neglected aspect of teaching—teacher well-being. Join us as we explore high-impact, low-effort teaching strategies crucial for bringing your best self to the classroom and forging a sustainable, rewarding career.

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Teaching Energy Artificial Intelligence Research 258

Cool Cat Teacher

DECEMBER 19, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter A common cry from teachers across the world is for relevant professional development. A 2014 Gates Foundation study shows only 29% of teachers are satisfied with current teacher PD. Another 2015 study shows that only 30% of teachers improve substantially with PD. So, what we have doesn't seem to be working.

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Innovation Equality Teaching Personalized Learning 261

Cool Cat Teacher

DECEMBER 19, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Welcome to a treasure from my ISTE 2023 vault. This is a podcast for all education trailblazers seeking the cutting edge of professional growth. As a teacher committed to improving teaching and improving our professional development, I'm thrilled to share this conversation about how professional development can and is improving.

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Artificial Intelligence Research Research Blended Learning 220

Cool Cat Teacher

DECEMBER 8, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Substitute teachers, like teachers, are heroes. As I wrote in “ There is No Substitute for Great Substitute Teachers ,” when we need a substitute, it is rarely planned. I'm so grateful for those who are flexible enough to fill in with limited notice. But when you're sick, it can be hard to write great lesson plans.

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Elementary Schooling Artificial Intelligence Flexibility 224

Cool Cat Teacher

DECEMBER 5, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Welcome to today's episode, where I will bridge the gap between AI in my classroom and your ears! If you've been following my blog, you know I want to bring practical, innovative teaching strategies to life. But today, I'm doing things a bit differently on the show for an extended episode with me, your host, Vicki Davis.

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Artificial Intelligence Blended Learning Innovation Research 224

Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 28, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter I do get pretty angry as I go on forums about Artificial Intelligence in Education. It seems often that the attitude is one of “gotcha” in terms of “catching” students using AI to “give them the answers.” The problem with this is that we're missing the whole point of AI.

Technology 250

Technology Artificial Intelligence Education Education 250

Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 18, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In this episode, we welcome Billy Krakower, a nationally recognized educator with 16 years of experience and a passion for bringing technology and creativity into the classroom. As a current STEM teacher in North New Jersey and a Google Certified Trainer, Billy focuses on implementing cutting-edge instructional design and is co-author of “connecting Your Students with the Virtual World.” We'll uncover pr

Artificial Intelligence 229

Artificial Intelligence Critical Thinking Creativity Communications 229

Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 17, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter We educators constantly seek new ways to engage our students and enhance their learning experiences. Recently, I introduced voice interactions with ChatGPT in my classroom using a Custom GPT that I made. (Note: If you’re new to ChatGPT, start with my blog post on What is ChatGPT ?

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Logistics Communications Research Research 248

Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 17, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In my recent experiments with Voice ChatGPT during my daily commutes, I've discovered some fascinating insights and practical applications for educators. Before I dig into the nuts and bolts of this experience, here's an overview into of the journey of using this tool for drafting blog posts and planning lessons: The Microphone shows on my phone app.

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Education Education Computer Science Computer 246

Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 10, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter As I listened to the keynote by Sam Altman of OpenAI, they unveiled some amazing things three days a go, one of which is the ability to make your own GPT. So I did. Did what? I made DIVAA, the Digital Interactive Virtual AP Assistant to help my AP Computer Science Principles with Python and AP Content.

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Computer Science Computer Accessibility Science 237

Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 9, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In today's episode, we're joined by Justin Reich, an associate professor at MIT and the author of ‘Iterate: The Secret to Innovation in Schools.' We dive deep into teachers' crucial role in driving innovation and improvement in education. Suppose you've wondered how to bring meaningful change to your school or classroom.

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Cool Cat Teacher

NOVEMBER 3, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In today's show, I talk with Mark Sparvell about a tool that has become essential to my lesson planning and work in my AP Computer Science Principles course: Bing Chat Enterprise. If your school has Microsoft Office 365 A3 or A5 licenses, you can activate this feature. It's an amazing tool that saves time and stands out with its robust privacy features, ensuring the security of student data while offering powerful AI

Artificial Intelligence 236

Artificial Intelligence Computer Science Accessibility Computer 236

Cool Cat Teacher

OCTOBER 1, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter Dr. Lydia Gonzalez, author of “Bad at Math: Dismantling Harmful Beliefs That Hinder Equitable Mathematics Education,” talks about the societal norms that make it acceptable to be “bad at math” and how these beliefs can be detrimental to learning. Dr.

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Math Accessibility Artificial Intelligence Mathematics 273

Cool Cat Teacher

SEPTEMBER 28, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter I've been working on a big project and am very busy, but I have been studying the changes in Windows 11 Copilot, released on Tuesday, September 26, and wanted to share them with you. This wouldn't be 80 Awesome Days of AI and HI if I didn't keep you up to date, would it?

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Accessibility Computer Publication Teaching 212

Cool Cat Teacher

SEPTEMBER 27, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter This week on Edutopia, I blogged about “ Using AI to Encourage Productive Struggle in Math ” and about how students don't need the answers to math problems; they need help with the process and how they can use Wolfram Alpha with ChatGPT to do that (as well as some other thoughts.

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Math Education Education Teaching 206

Cool Cat Teacher

SEPTEMBER 26, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In today's episode, we sit down with Stephanie DeLussey, a dual-certified veteran special education teacher, IEP coach, and author of the upcoming book “The Intentional IEP.” Stephanie shares her unique insights into the often daunting process of writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Artificial Intelligence 241

Artificial Intelligence Education Education Communications 241

Cool Cat Teacher

SEPTEMBER 25, 2023

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter In Part 1 of “ Why Every School Needs and AI Policy Right Now ,” I shared the empirical evidence about Artificial Intelligence and how it is impacting our world and schools. As I said in the first article, with so many things grabbing the attention of administrators, AI seems to be taking a back seat in the minds of many.

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