Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emotional Intelligence and Project Based Learning With Matt Taylor | E225 | 13 May 2025 | 00:38:22 | |
This episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast features guest Matt Taylor, who leads the Noble Story Group, a consulting firm that focuses on emotional intelligence-based leadership development in education and nonprofits. Matt’s “Why” He had an epiphany while observing both urban district schools and charter schools that they either had teachers with great technical and instructional skills, but unhappy students and teachers or they were happy places where students weren’t being challenged. He believes the “sweet spot” is a place where adults and kids feel connected and challenged. His executive coaching training grounded in emotional intelligence changed his life and gave him a framework to address his observations. He seeks to create the conditions for learning and thriving for individuals, teams, and learning communities. The Value of Executive Coaching
Success Story: The Second-Year Principal
The Five Square Method
The Importance of Listening
Expertise for School Leaders
Launching a Vision
Opportunities in the Future of Education
Parting Advice
Call to Action
Resources
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| How to Help Your Teachers Love Teaching Again | E224 | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:18:07 | |
This episode focuses on practical ways administrators can address teacher burnout and reignite their passion for teaching. Burnout is characterized by a disconnect from the joy of teaching, often stemming from a lack of autonomy and meaningful teaching opportunities. Project Based learning (PBL) is presented as a way to combat teacher burnout by fostering a student-centered approach that can revitalize teachers' love of teaching. This episode emphasizes that while quick fixes like hot chocolate and meditation can help, it's important to address the root causes of burnout. Three Key Ways to Reignite Teachers' Love of Teaching:
Practical Steps Administrators Can Take Immediately:
Call to Action:
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Next Episode:
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| The One Page Playbook to Transform Your Faculty Meetings | E215 | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:15:22 | |
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! ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED (affiliate link) SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA 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. | |||
| PBL Leadership - Unstoppable | E126 | 19 Apr 2023 | 00:19:38 | |
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “What is the research behind Project Based Learning? The research is out there! You can go back to past PBL Simplified episodes E88 and E90 to hear Ryan talk about this research or Ryan can send you the research. Just go to WhatisPBL.com and click on Ask Ryan. In our main episode, Ryan does a deep dive into the book Be Unstoppable by Alden M. Mills. Be Unstoppable is a parable style book that gives us a format for personal leadership. Tune in to the heart of this episode to get another high level leadership book for your bookshelf. ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
PBL MOVEMENT CONFERENCE https://www.magnifylearningin.org/pbl-movement
BE UNSTOPPABLE BY ALDEN M. MILLS | |||
| PBL Showcase - How Do You Find And Use Community Partners? | E125 | 12 Apr 2023 | 00:32:06 | |
Are you looking for high quality Project Based Learning examples to share with your staff? If yes, then you have found the right episode! Haley Culp from Neosho, Missouri shares her PBL unit and offers some advice on what went well, and what she learned. In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “How do I get Project Based Learning to spread organically?” In the Leadership Leap, Ryan talks about Eat, Move, and Sleep by Tom Rath. This book is backed up by research and filled with advice about how you should Eat, Move, and Sleep. Get your copy in the links below. In the main episode, we have Haley Culp from Neosho Missouri. Haley was a teacher in the classroom and has recently switched roles to assistant principal. Today, Haley shares her favorite PBL Unit from her classroom.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
PBL MOVEMENT CONFERENCE https://www.magnifylearningin.org/pbl-movement
EAT MOVE SLEEP BY TOM RATH | |||
| PBL Leadership - The Slight Edge | E124 | 05 Apr 2023 | 00:16:38 | |
Do you ever wonder how high achievers reach such a high level? Contrary to popular thought, they did not just suddenly rise to the top. It was all of the little things they did every day, compounding over years, that brought them up to where they are today. The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson captures this idea perfectly. What is the Slight Edge? In his book, Jeff Olson says “They are not big sweeping things that take huge effort. They are not heroic or dramatic. Mostly, they are just little things you do every day and nobody else will notice.” In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “How do I get my teachers to do a book study?” It's a trick question, you don’t! Your staff does not have time to do a book study. But can you get excerpts of really great books and bring them to your staff? Absolutely! For our main episode, Ryan takes a deep dive into The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson. This book is all about making slight improvements that compound over time adding up to major achievements. How does this help us in education and Project Based Learning? Ryan shares three ideas from The Slight Edge you can implement today. Get your copy in the links below.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
THE SLIGHT EDGE BY JEFF OLSON | |||
| PBL Working Session - How Do You Create Authentic Project Based Learning Units? | E123 | 29 Mar 2023 | 00:30:20 | |
Do you wonder what conversations other Project-Based Learning schools have? If you answered yes then you’re in for a treat because we have a special PBL Working Session with Haley Culp from Neosho, Missouri. In this working session, you get to listen as Ryan works through some of the questions Haley has from her district. Haley has been a PBL teacher in the classroom and is now an Assistant Principal at a PBL-supportive district in Neosho, Missouri. Haley is also a PBL Certified Facilitator.
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “When are my Learners ready for a public presentation?” In the Leadership Leap, Ryan summarizes The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson. This book is about little actions every day that eventually add up. Ryan highly recommends this book! Get your copy in the links below.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
THE SLIGHT EDGE BY JEFF OLSON
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| PBL Guest - Motivated Leadership - Danny Brassell | E122 | 22 Mar 2023 | 00:50:53 | |
For this PBL Leadership Guest Episode we have Danny Brassell with us today. Danny is a speaker and author of 15 books including Leadership Starts With Motivation and Bringing Joy Back to the Classroom. Danny talks about different leadership ideas you can apply to your work today. You will definitely find several nuggets of advice in this episode. We will be talking about faculty meeting ideas.
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “I get that grouping is important, but it is also hard and awful! Help!” In the Leadership Leap, Ryan summarizes the book Elite Minds by Dr. Stan Beecham. Elite Minds book's thesis is “The debate continues whether it’s in business or competitive sports, how much of one's performance is based on physical ability and how much of one's performance is based on mental acuity.” Get your copy in the link below.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
ELITE MINDS BY DR. STAN BEECHAM
CONNECT WITH DR. DANNY BRASSELL https://freegiftfromdanny.com/
BOOKS BY DR. DANNY BRASSELL | |||
| PBL Leadership - Train to Expert - Where to Start | 121 | 15 Mar 2023 | 00:27:23 | |
How do you define the path for your school? Without a path, no one knows where to go, but you will end up somewhere. The next step you need to take is what Ryan calls "Train to Expert", which is training your teachers to be experts in their chosen field. Ryan gives three key components to professional development. These components fulfill both culture building and the skillsets of your staff. This episode focuses on the first step of the Train to Expert path. There will be two more steps in the series of Defining the Path for your school.
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “I’m a PE teacher. I’m in the gym. I’ve got health. How do I get started with Project-Based Learning and how do elective courses work with Project-Based Learning?” Ryan points to Jordan Manley as the PE expert. You can connect with Jordan in the links below.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
48 DAYS COMMUNITY
MINDSET BY CAROL DWECK
JORDAN MANLEY Twitter: @STEAMWellnes Blog Post by Jordan: https://slowchathealth.com/2022/05/30/pbl_pe/ | |||
| PBL Showcase - How Do You Build Engagement In High School English? | E120 | 08 Mar 2023 | 00:39:36 | |
Are you looking for other Visionary Leaders to connect with? Does English and Project Based Learning seem like a hurdle or a highlight? Visionary Leaders who employ PBL can create authentic learning experiences and inspiring classrooms for students of all ages. Project Based Learning also enables school leaders to fulfill their vision for academic growth and a thriving school community.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
ATHLETIC GREENS
ATOMIC HABITS BY JAMES CLEAR | |||
| PBL Leadership - Define the Path | E119 | 01 Mar 2023 | 00:27:07 | |
We’ve already talked about defining the dissonance, that feeling that something is wrong with education. During the last PBL Leadership Episode Ryan talked about defining the ideal, what you want your Learners to know when they leave your school. Now Ryan talks about defining the path. Ryan shares four future facing steps you must take in order to define the path for your people to take. Ryan will also tell you how to build an Irreversible Culture so that when you leave to go onto your next adventure, the culture is already solidified.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
48 DAYS COMMUNITY
THE CHECKLIST MANIFESTO BY ATUL GAWANDE | |||
| PBL Leadership Guest - Brenden From MasterTalk | E118 | 22 Feb 2023 | 00:48:21 | |
Public speaking is important for every Visionary Leader. You need to be able communicate your ideas clearly and effectively to your team. Whether it’s at a faculty meeting or one-on-one, great public speaking requires practice. It doesn’t happen overnight. In this PBL Leadership Guest episode we have Brenden from MasterTalk. Brenden is an expert public speaking coach. He shares his knowledge of public speaking with Ryan and how it relates to you as a Visionary Leader. Brenden will also share several ideas to help you run a faculty with engagement from your staff. Brenden has a Youtube channel where he shares his public speaking expertise. In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “What type of learner is PBL best suited for?” In the Leadership Leap, Ryan summarizes the book EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey. This book is all about leadership ideas that actually work. These ideas come from decades of work by Dave Ramsey and his team. Ryan shares several ideas and quotes from the book.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
ENTRELEADERSHIP BY DAVE RAMSEY
BRENDEN’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL https://www.youtube.com/@MasterTalks
Some of the links above are affiliate links which means we earn a small commission if you use our link to purchase the item. | |||
| PBL Leadership - Define the Ideal | E117 | 15 Feb 2023 | 00:24:39 | |
Last PBL Leadership Episode Ryan talked about defining the dissonance, that feeling that something is wrong with education. Now he talks about defining the ideal, what you want your Learners to know when they leave your school. Ryan tells you how to make your Ideal Graduate. The Ideal Graduate is more than just a fancy logo that goes on your website, it’s a process. The process is very important for your teachers and school. In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast Ryan answers the Need to Know “How do we find Community Partners?” and gives you some great tips and ideas for inviting Community Partners into your school to provide authenticity to the work. In the Leadership Leap Ryan summarizes the book It Takes What It Takes by Trevor Moawad. For the Main Episode Ryan talks about defining the Ideal, what things look like when everything is going great.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
IT TAKES WHAT IT TAKES BY TREVOR MOAWAD | |||
| Revolutionizing Educational Leadership with Danny Bauer: From Positive Classrooms to Visionary Ruckus Makers | E199 | 11 Sep 2024 | 00:46:15 | |
Curious about transforming your approach to educational leadership? Join us for a conversation with Danny Bauer, the visionary behind Better Leaders, Better Schools and the new ruckusmakers.club. Danny shares his journey from promoting incremental improvements to championing radical, exponential change. He reveals the inspirations behind his latest venture and offers insights on how to foster a community of innovative school leaders ready to revolutionize education. https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc
SIGN UP FOR THE MAGNIFY LEARNING NEWSLETTER https://www.magnifylearningin.org/newsletter-sign-up
SHARE A PBL WIN!
ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED (affiliate link)
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
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. | |||
| PBL Showcase - Full Grade Level PBL Plus an Elective Class | E116 | 08 Feb 2023 | 00:40:56 | |
Visionary Leaders who employ PBL can create authentic learning experiences and inspiring classrooms for students of all ages. Project Based Learning also enables school leaders to fulfill their vision for academic growth and a thriving school community. In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast Ryan will answer the Need to Know “How do we create PBL Office Hours?”and also give you a different solution. For the Leadership Leap Ryan summarizes The Power of Sleep. Sleep is important as a Visionary Leader. Check it out in the links below. In the main PBL Showcase episode we have the team at Dixie Magnet Elementary. They talk about their successful PBL Unit of rebuilding the playground to fit all accessibility levels, implementing standards into this unit, how they brought in community partners, and a student success story.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP | |||
| PBL Leadership - Define the Dissonance | E115 | 01 Feb 2023 | 00:23:39 | |
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast Ryan will answer the Need to Know “How do I find authentic PBL Unit ideas?” For the Leadership Leap Ryan summarizes Be Unstoppable by Alden M. Mills. In the main episode, Ryan talks about defining the dissonance, that feeling of something wrong with education. As a Visionary Leader, you need to be able to define the dissonance. Ryan asks you three questions to help you find, fix, and then solve the dissonance. Ryan will also give you several ideas for solving the dissonance in your own school. Everyone's dissonance might be different. The science teacher will likely have a different dissonance than the English teacher. ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP | |||
| PBL Leadership Guest - Ryan Steuer | E114 | 25 Jan 2023 | 00:27:54 | |
In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, Ryan answers the Need to Know “How does a school get started with PBL?” For the Leadership Leap Ryan summarizes Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink. In the main Leadership Guest episode Ryan Steuer will be the guest with his daughter Sadie Steuer as the host. Sadie is also the host of the CoCoLand Podcast. Among other questions, Ryan shares his ‘why’, how it feels to publish his second book, PBL Simplified, Ryan talks about 51 by 2051 51% of schools using Project Based Learning by 2051, and reveals some things most people do not know about him.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
THE COCOLAND PODCAST https://thecocolandpodcast.buzzsprout.com
WORKING GENIUS TEST | |||
| PBL Leadership - Actually Achieving Your Goals | E113 | 18 Jan 2023 | 00:30:38 | |
Have you set your goals but now you feel stuck? As a Visionary Leader, your goals are important. But after you set your goals, you need to actually achieve them. This is an important and often overlooked step. We’ve already talked about setting your goals and now Ryan will share three things you must do if you want to actually achieve your goals. In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast Ryan answers the Need to Know of Do I have to pay for Community Partners? In the Leadership Leap segment Ryan summarizes Discipline is Destiny by Ryan Holiday. Check it out in the resources sheet in the show notes below. For the main episode, Ryan will be talking about actually achieving your goals.
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER | |||
| PBL Showcase - Math and PBL l E112 | 11 Jan 2023 | 00:33:40 | |
Are you looking for other Visionary Leaders to connect with? Does math and Project Based Learning seem like a hurdle or a highlight? Visionary Leaders who employ PBL can create authentic learning experiences and inspiring classrooms for students of all ages. Project Based Learning also enables school leaders to fulfill their vision for academic growth and a thriving school community. In this PBL Simplified episode, Ryan will answer the need to know “How do we connect my standards to the real world?” Our Leadership Leap is about the book Mastermind by Daniel Bauer. Danny is a mastermind expert and he and his Ruckus Makers are changing education for the positive. I highly recommend his book, check it out in the links below. Today’s main episode is a PBL Showcase in Math. Kristina Werner takes a boring subject like data and makes it engaging for her learners. Kristina’s ‘Why’ is about equity in mathematics and trying to have more students to see themselves as math learners. Now that she works at a Project Based Learning school in Florida, her why has expanded to engaging more students in the math classroom and showing them that there are connections outside of the problems in the book. In this episode she talks about creativity in math.
PRE-ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER | |||
| PBL Leadership - Are You a Managing Leader or a Visionary Leader? l E111 | 04 Jan 2023 | 00:27:55 | |
You don’t want to be a Managing leader. You want to be a Visionary leader. You want reach a higher level that has never been reached. You want to inspire. You want to grow. “Managers are often able to maintain a team at its current level, leaders are able to lift it to a higher level than it has ever reached before.” -John Maxwell In the main episode, Ryan will show you how to cast a clear and practical vision that excites and rallies your team. For Our Need to Know Ryan answers “How do I know if I’m a Managing Leader or a Visionary Leader?” In the new segment Leadership Leap, Ryan summarizes Leadershift by John Maxwell Project Based Learning is an instruction model that allows you to inspire and support your team. Traditional teaching can silo your staff and cause them to become reliant on you to make decisions. PBL will help you staff be empowered to fulfill your vision. Let’s help you launch that vision!
ORDER THE NEW BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER | |||
| *Bonus Episode* PBL Leadership - Reflection: You Need to Reflect! Don't Skip this Step! | E110 | 31 Dec 2022 | 00:15:45 | |
It's our last episode of the year. We get to talk about reflection. Reflection is a huge part of Project Based Learning. John Maxwell said, "Experience isn't the best teacher, evaluated experience is the best teacher." It's possible to do the wrong thing over and over and never learn from it. When you take the time to reflect, you can learn from the experience. I also want to thank everyone for listening and please share this podcast. Become the person who is known for sharing great resources. I also talk about having gratitude and thanking those people you appreciate. Focus on the gain, not the gap, and have a wonderful year!
Episode Highlights: [01:47] Being on the hamster wheel without reflection can burn you out and stifle improvement. [03:01] Look back on this last year or semester and write down highlights. Have a gratitude journal. [04:57] Who are the people in your life that you are grateful for? Send them a note and tell them you appreciate them. [07:39] We want to focus on the gain, not the gap. [09:54] What will you be grateful for at the end of the year? Write down in first person the goals and people that you are grateful for at the end of the future year. [12:48] Reach out to potential mentors and experts who have something to share. If they don't have time, reach out to someone else. [14:40] Relaunch your vision. All Beginnings are hopeful.
Resources & Links Related to this Episode
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| PBL Leadership Guest - 100% of Students - Adam Drummond | E109 | 28 Dec 2022 | 00:37:01 | |
Dr. Adam Drummond is here to talk about leadership, education, and some great principles from his book, The Instructional Change Agent. Dr. Drummond has a vast array of educational experience. He served as an elementary teacher and then moved up in the ranks becoming a principal and beyond. He’s served as a consultant, manager, director, and keynoter for the International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE). He shares his vast knowledge and experience in this interview. We have a “need to know” about how we make sure that we’re implementing PBL with fidelity. I talk about the importance of authenticity and real-world growth. Support your staff to build competence and then they can train others.
Episode Highlights: [02:01] How do we make sure we're implementing PBL with fidelity? [02:35] The first people who implement PBL at your school will begin to define PBL at your school. Show a growth mindset, because your facilitators will expect feedback in terms of growth. [09:38] Having a positive educational experience forms a positive educational attitude. Impact matters. [10:41] Dr. Drummond knew he wanted to be in education since he was in the first grade. [13:07] It's important to understand each individual child's true needs. [17:24] Creating number one resources to match your goal. [20:25] We need our workforce to grow with the four E's: employment, enlistment, enrollment, and entrepreneurship. [23:28] Dr. Drummond shares how their community advisory team benefits their school and instruction. [26:56] Where do you want to be five years from now? Five questions to get there. [34:50] Looking at what is translating into student achievement and growth.
Resources & Links Related to this Episode
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| PBL Working Session - How to Start a PBL School - Banff Academy, Scotland | E108 | 21 Dec 2022 | 00:24:42 | |
This is a special working episode. If you listened to episode 107 where I talked with Banff Academy, they asked me to answer a couple of "need to knows" that they have. This episode is the working session where we talked through their "need to know" questions. I’d also love your feedback on this episode. Would you like more of these working sessions? Go to WhatIsPBL.com and click on Ask Ryan and let me know! Today we talk about how to deliver PBL on a large scale with multiple teachers and more.
Episode Highlights: [04:28] How to maintain consistency when one project is being delivered to multiple classes with a variety of teachers? Scaling PBL. [05:29] A community partner can present to everyone. Have a consistent message. Then teachers can dive in individually. [09:09] Community partners do like to get back to the community. [09:39] Prioritize what needs to be consistent and what doesn't. [10:47] How would you incorporate PBL into qualification level classes? [12:26] Ask the teachers what they want the learners to know by the time they leave school. Educators get fired up about the solution process. We can achieve these goals and meet standards. [18:14] Hannah and Nick want the learners to be asking for PBL by the time they become seniors. [19:02] Problem Based Learning can be 4 to 6 days or a smaller chunk than PBL.
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| PBL Showcase - How to Start a PBL School - Banff Academy | E107 | 14 Dec 2022 | 00:46:02 | |
I'm fired up about 51% by 2051 and getting 51% of schools using Project Based Learning by 2051. My last episode was about setting goals. Goals get you fired up, so take some time and write out your goals. Get fired up about PBL like today's guest Banff Academy from Scotland. I also have a “need to know” from a live workshop in Kentucky. It’s all about will PBL work at your school. In episode 88, I talked about Lucas Research on learners from less advantaged backgrounds and the positive results PBL had on their test scores. PBL is for all learners. Episode Highlights: [02:45] Need to Know: I've seen PBL work in what looks like a private school, but what about my school? [04:12] The Lucas Foundation did some really good research about how well PBL works in many different types of schools, especially when the learners are more disadvantaged. [09:20] Nick Mochan is a Deputy Head Teacher at Banff Academy. Hannah Clark is the Principal Teacher of Project Based Learning at Banff Academy. [10:06] They now have a team of three Project Based Learning teachers and a coordinator. [12:09] Nick and Hannah share their PBL whys. [17:14] They knew it would take brave leadership to implement something new like PBL. [18:24] Nick and Hannah are pioneering PBL in Scotland. They want to make learning more suitable to meet future learner demands. [26:23] Learners are changing the world by finding solutions for problems. Community partnerships are about relationships preparing the students for success. [32:34] Hannah shares a Pathway course where students work with local partners to find out how to create their dream jobs. [41:17] The teacher is in the middle facilitating the projects rather than leading.
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| PBL Model District - Large District - Movement Maker Interview: Ashley Curtin | E196 | 21 Aug 2024 | 00:50:45 | |
What if empowering third graders with Project Based Learning (PBL) could lead to real-world changes in your community? Join us for a conversation with district coach Ashley Curtin, who shares how Calvert County Schools in Maryland used PBL to increase student engagement. Learn about their innovative start with Social Studies and the pivotal role of supportive leadership. Ashley also reveals how her adventurous summer underscores the necessity for educators to balance work with rest, ultimately fueling their passion and effectiveness in the classroom. https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc
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| PBL Leadership - Goal Setting that Actually Works from Dan Miller and James Clear | E106 | 07 Dec 2022 | 00:19:24 | |
January is around the corner, and it's time to set goals and plan for the new year. Even with the busyness of December, a leader needs to carve out time for deep work. This episode is about setting goals for the new year and being able to communicate those goals. I share quotes and goal setting wisdom from Dan Miller and his goal setting worksheet. Once you have all of your goals, I share the process by James Clear to ruthlessly eliminate unnecessary goals.
Episode Highlights: [05:46] People with clear plans and goals don't get depressed. Moving towards the goals we set is how we define success. [07:19] When we set goals, we need to be fired up about those goals. Set three year goals and work backwards. [11:13] Go big with your goals and then ruthlessly eliminate the unnecessary ones. Having too many goals will prevent us from achieving the important ones. [11:39] James Clear says the goal tells you where to go and the habit gets you there. [14:02] Priority mechanisms include the Eisenhower box and the Ivy Lee method.
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| PBL Guest - How to Create Sustainable PBL - Brad Sever | E105 | 30 Nov 2022 | 00:31:26 | |
Brad Sever is currently an assistant principal at Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana. He’s also an author, presenter, and PBL trainer with extensive experience in PBL and schools and classrooms. Brad has been deeply involved with the world of PBL. His book, Sustainable Project-Based Learning: Five Steps for Designing Authentic Classroom Experiences in Grades 5–12, is all about designing, implementing, and assessing sustainable PBL. Brad shares a wealth of PBL information including asking the right questions and what those questions are.
Episode Highlights: [02:04] Brad's "why" is about providing authentic learning experiences for students. [05:19] It's important for leaders to ask the right questions as opposed to having the right answer. [08:49] Brad shares a student story about a Civil War interactive museum exhibit where a student went above and beyond. [12:30] First steps that principals can take for PBL include focusing on the interested teachers and specific questions as a school. [15:21] Schools should be intentional about foundational knowledge, the ability to compare & contrast, and making sure students see real world application. [21:50] The best way to sustain PBL is to conduct teacher action research during teacher collaboration time. [24:12] Brad talks about flirting, dating, engaged, and married as an analogy to applying PBL in your school using the four questions from his book and action research. [26:22] Brad's advice for principals that are on the fence about PBL.
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| PBL Guest - How to Build a Culture Beyond Standards - Jon Acton | E104 | 23 Nov 2022 | 00:38:17 | |
Jon Acton has done it all when it comes to education. He was a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. His life took a turn when he and two of his close friends were diagnosed with cancer two years ago. He is now a motivational speaker, climate and culture consultant, and author. His business is called Broken Shells, based on a realization that came to him during chemotherapy. He shares his story and journey. He also talks about climate and culture, the differences, and how to have a positive learning environment. We discuss the importance of knowing your why and the significance of “expect victory” in Jon’s life.
Episode Highlights: [01:42] "Need to Know" How do I create a PBL culture in my staff and classrooms? [02:05] Care about your people and establish a positive culture. The current of culture takes you, even if you're not moving. [07:19] Jon's "why" is making a positive influence on the kids. [12:43] Two years ago, Jon was diagnosed with cancer. Two of his friends also had the same diagnosis. [15:28] Jon loves the beach and found thousands of broken shells. During chemo, he realized that we are all broken shells. [20:41] Climate and culture is your foundational piece to success. Focus on climate and culture for a happy staff. [22:05] Climate means immediate things that you can do to enhance your classroom. Culture is more long-standing. [26:04] You can't have a positive classroom culture with a toxic staff culture. [29:44] Decide if you're going to be vulnerable and don't be afraid to smile and go after the things you want. Resources & Links Related to this Episode
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| PBL Leadership - PBL Awareness with Parents and the Community | E103 | 16 Nov 2022 | 00:22:32 | |
Today we end our series on supporting PBL in your school by talking about building PBL awareness. If you want a forward looking plan that will keep PBL going for years into the future, you need a PBL mindset. You have to know and be able to share your why. In our “need to know” I talk about how to find local schools to collaborate with. It doesn’t have to be something big and elaborate. Just start talking with other schools and start a group to explore ideas and learn more. Soon you’ll have your collaborative group.
Episode Highlights: [04:59] "Need to know" How do I find a local school to collaborate with? [05:23] Put your flag up and let local schools or schools in your state know that you are looking at PBL. [07:03] You can also go with your local name and start a collaboration. Get together, talk, or even start a book study group. [09:04] Building PBL awareness. Leverage your community. [10:35] Share your why with local businesses and leaders, so they know you are empowering the learners and showcase your plan. [13:33] Share your story with the community. Have a community partner breakfast and showcase your school.
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| PBL Showcase Compilation - 4 PBL Showcases in 1 Episode! | E102 | 09 Nov 2022 | 00:30:37 | |
This is a special PBL Showcase consisting of four standout PBL Showcases over the last year that I want to highlight. I’ll introduce each episode and share a clip. You can find links to the full episodes at the bottom of the page. Our “need to know” revolves around finding PBL ideas. Once you get started you’ll see ideas everywhere, but a great way to start is to collaborate with other educators. It's our goal to simplify PBL in order to get 51% of schools using PBL by the year 2051. We have this podcast, a YouTube channel, and the PBL Simplified book coming out on January 17th.
Episode Highlights: [03:38] "Need to know" How do you come up with a PBL idea? [06:49] Our PBL Showcases are full of ideas and implementation that could give you ideas to build context around your learners. [10:13] Episode 65. They found local problems from the school office and used science to find the solutions. Another class partnered with a counselor and life skills teacher and created fidget toys. [17:00] Episode 76 turned kindergartners and first graders into authors and editors. They reached out to the community and a nursing home to create books to sell in order to get iPads for the residents. [21:57] Episode 98 is an example of an idea shifting with the learners. The class used buckets to gather water after reading about girls in Africa having to collect water. They ended up doing two projects. [26:36] Episode 63 has clips from young learners sharing why they like PBL and why you should implement it in your school.
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| PBL Leadership - Three Structures Every Leader Must Protect for PBL to Thrive | E101 | 02 Nov 2022 | 00:17:16 | |
Leaders often wonder how they can be advocates for Project Based Learning in their classrooms. I talk about the three structures that will create an environment where PBL can flourish if you as a leader protect them. This week's “need to know” is related to our main topic of being an advocate for PBL. How can leaders learn about PBL if they are already out of the classroom? I talk about the importance of having a mindset of creating a learner centered environment for your staff which will empower their PBL efforts.
Episode Highlights: [03:11] How do you learn about PBL when you're a leader that isn't in the classroom? [04:02] Get the learner centered growth mindset of Project Based Learning. Empower your staff to teach themselves about Project Based Learning. [06:05] How you can be a PBL advocate and why. [07:40] 1. Ensure that district initiatives don't hinder or undermine the Project Based Learning work. [10:13] 2. Allow the freedom of when and how the curriculum is taught. Rigid based plans can hinder Project Based Learning. [12:09] 3. Make sure that your teacher evaluations don't penalize teachers for using PBL.
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| PBL Leadership Guest - Deeper Learning and Project Based Learning - Carmen Coleman | E100 | 26 Oct 2022 | 00:39:36 | |
Carmen Coleman is the OVEC Chief of Transformational Learning and Leading/Deeper Learning Leader. She has a long educational leadership resume including Chief Academic Information Officer, Associate Professor, Superintendent, Principal, Teacher and several other academic leadership positions. We go way back and have a great conversation about deeper learning and Project Based Learning. We also have a "need to know" on continuing your work so that it's still going strong ten years from now? It's all about relationships and your strong network.
Episode Highlights: [02:05] "Need to Know": How do I stay grounded as a leader? [02:25] Relationships or your Professional Learning Network is important. You need to connect with like-minded people. [08:36] Carmen became intent on helping kids realize their potential. [12:24] With the project based approach kids were solving real life problems. [18:30] Carmen wanted the vision at their school to become a living vision statement. [21:10] Creating learning experiences that show evidence of success is part of PBL. [27:03] The importance of having a North Star and knowing the end game you want to accomplish. [33:44] If you're on the fence about PBL, find out what's holding you back.
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| PBL Leadership - Professional Development Plan | E99 | 19 Oct 2022 | 00:22:46 | |
Ryan answers the question of how to bring Project Based Learning into your school or district in a sustainable way. PBL should be integrated in a way that creates excitement and long-term success. It starts with personal development for every leader. Episode Highlights: [05:10] "Need to know": Are actual problems more successful than hypothetical problems? Which one is the more effective question? [12:18] Every PBL leader needs three forms of personal development. #1 YOU need to have professional development around Project Based Learning. [14:27] #2 Is to have a PBL team, or core team, or leadership team. A core group of facilitators that can model and advocate for PBL. [17:16] #3 is the whole staff. You need to start with the "why" and the passion. Start with a passionate idea, show what PBL can do, and have a 3-4 year plan, and you will get a group of first followers.
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| PBL Showcase - Teacher and Learners Share How to Pick a PBL Unit Idea | Build a Well with Voice and Choice | E98 | 12 Oct 2022 | 00:35:55 | |
Today, I talk to 2nd Grade Teacher Kelly Misheikis from Unionville Elementary School in Bloomington, Indiana, and two of her former 2nd-grade students. Kelly and her class solved a runoff problem at their school's pond and raised over $10,000 to dig a well in Africa so girls could go to school instead of carrying water. I also have a "need to know" question: "How do I bring PBL ideas to my classroom?" There's nothing wrong with the kids coming up with ideas, but that's an advanced exercise. A facilitator can craft a well-thought-out idea that looks at standards, solves a real-world problem, and has available community partners.
Episode Highlights: [02:38] Today's "Need to Know": How do I bring PBL ideas to my classroom? [02:59] The idea can come from anywhere. Kids having to come up with a PBL idea on their own is definitely an advanced tactic. [04:07] The idea has likely been crafted by the facilitator who's looked at the standards, real-world problems, and community partners. [07:48] Kelly Misheikis teaches at Unionville Elementary School in Bloomington, Indiana. She has two students who participated in the PBL with her today. [08:02] The project was called Save Water, Secure the Future. What can students do to conserve water, make it more accessible, and prevent pollutants? [09:50] There's a large pond in front of their school and runoff from the parking lot was going into that pond. [11:06] The school also has a vision called E.A.R.T.H. Earth, art, resources, technology, and health. Each grade studied a continent, and the second grade continent was Africa. [13:12] One of the students shares her story of gathering water with a bucket at the pond. The experience was life changing. [15:54] The kids had a goal to raise $10,000 for the Georgie Badiel Foundation. They even spoke with her. [19:59] The kids thought it was awesome and got donations from several family members. [21:11] They also researched and planted plants around the pond to soak up the runoff, and they also relocated the trail.
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| PBL Leadership - Build a Movement, Not a Mandate - PBL Learning Teams | E97 | 05 Oct 2022 | 00:19:45 | |
As a leader, it’s essential to build your core learning team when introducing PBL to your school. You want PBL to empower learners and not go away when you leave. Having a core learning team will help with the sustainability of your PBL program. I talk about the three keys for PBL sustainability in your school. You don’t want to do it alone. People follow the first follower instead of the leader. You need local examples for your core team and teachers to follow. I also talk about a need to know that I get asked often: “What does Project Based Learning look like in kindergarten?” Besides being incredibly cute to see the kids dressed up and speaking to the audience, PBL in kindergarten is filled with impact. They learn to communicate with community partners, and the parents get to be the authentic audience which is a treat for everyone.
Episode Highlights: [02:03] "Need to Know": What does Project Based Learning look like in kindergarten? Answer: Ridiculously cute and insanely impactful. [02:40] There's magic that happens when Project Based Learning is brought into the kindergarten classroom. [03:57] The kids are fired up. The kids that normally act out will sit and listen to the community partner. [05:09] The kids get to ask questions and the authentic audience is the learner's parents. The kids learn to speak in front of an audience. [08:49] Every Project Based Learning leader should have a PBL learning team for three sustainability keys. [09:01] Key #1 You can't bring Project Based Learning in alone, and you wouldn't want to. [10:38] Key #2 People follow the first follower, not the leader. [13:29] Key #3 You need local examples of Project Based Learning. Now your next group of teachers have something to reference.
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| Transforming Schools Through Asset-Based School Development and PBL | E187 | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:28:37 | |
Imagine transforming your school's culture by focusing on what you do best. In this episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast, we embark on an inspiring journey through asset-based school development. We kick things off with a leadership lesson from John Maxwell, exploring how tackling hard problems can prepare educators to solve even more challenging issues. You'll hear about a listener's success story, where structured Project Based Learning (PBL) turned chaotic teaching methods into well-organized, effective strategies. https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc
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| PBL Leadership Guest - How To Create a Winning School Culture - Coach John Bacon | E96 | 28 Sep 2022 | 00:36:27 | |
In this guest episode, I'm interviewing coach John Bacon. He's the author of Let Them Lead. Coach Bacon took the worst team in hockey and turned them around. He was able to empower his players and make them a winning team. It's a great story, and I recommend you listen to the audio version. Hearing the coach tell the story almost makes it seem like a movie, but it's real life. Our "need to know" connects with our conversation with the coach today. It's all about the question of where does culture fit in with Project Based Learning. Every school has a culture. Like my annual canoeing trip, culture is like the river's current. Your culture is always moving whether you intend it to or not. Adding initiatives like Project Based Learning helps impact your culture positively.
Episode Highlights: [03:19] A positive culture helps build momentum. Culture is like the current taking your school down the river. [06:16] Nothing gives Coach Bacon more satisfaction than teaching and coaching. He speaks and writes but teaching is in his family. [07:46] Coach Bacon’s team, the River Rats, was ranked dead last. In three years, he turned the team around and ranked number 53 in the nation passing 1203 teams. [10:33] Coach Bacon's book, Let Them Lead is currently being turned into a screenplay. [11:31] Lesson 1. Make it special to play for the team. Making it hard is the easiest way to make it special. [14:13] They were the hardest working team in America and not one player quit. [17:53] Never tell your people what they can't do. Coach Bacon shares the story of Darth Nader. [20:41] Water all the plants. You don't know who's going to grow when or how far or how big. [31:37] Coach Bacon advises any principal on the fence about building culture to get off of that fence!
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| PBL Leadership - How do I bring Project Based Learning to my school/district? High Level Design Days | E95 | 21 Sep 2022 | 00:21:48 | |
We are talking about two schools today. One had a design plan for bringing in Project Based Learning. The other school didn't have a succession plan. I'm also going to give you the backstory for these design days and how it goes when you have a succession plan and when you don't. We also dive into concerns about a community partner taking over your class with their own agenda in today’s “need to know.” This can be a real concern, but I’ve never heard of that happening. You bring in the community partner, so you choose a partner that you know well enough that problems won’t happen.
Episode Highlights: [02:23] If you're bringing in a community partner, you should know them well enough to know whether or not they're going to bring their own agenda. [03:17] Find a person that fits and have the discussion beforehand. [05:24] The first school brought in PBL. They did great training and had a principal that was fired up. They went through PBL Jumpstart and PBL Advanced. They did amazing things and really served their learners. [06:08] They didn't invest in the coaching at the administrative level to create a succession plan. When the principal moved on PBL disappeared. [08:43] What are the systems and processes that are in place that aren't just built around you as a dynamic leader? [12:33] You need time to think about the plans and the processes for your specific customized environment. Have a future plan in place, so when you move on your work doesn't die. [14:15] Put out your North Star and create grassroots momentum by inviting people into your vision. [17:21] Living the Project Based Learning process engages students, learners, principals and superintendents. The mindset goes through every level when living out this process on every level.
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| PBL Showcase - What do Teachers Think About Project Based Learning? | E94 | 14 Sep 2022 | 00:19:29 | |
This PBL Showcase will feature excerpts from teachers I interviewed during a PBL Jumpstart. I was able to talk to them on their third day to get some of their thoughts. We'll hear things like, I used to think this, but now I believe this, so we'll see mindset shifts. In a PBL Jumpstart, you get to live out PBL while creating a PBL unit. Our "need to know" for today is based on this question: I'm a social studies teacher. How do I connect my subject matter to relevant topics now? The teachers are experts in the field. Just asking the question in a little different way enables teachers to find a way to relate their lessons with the lives of kids today to help the kids feel more engaged and to work with community partners to add employability skills.
Episode Highlights: [02:22] Can teaching ancient history solve a real world problem? You are the expert who would know the answer to this question. How could you make the lesson relevant to make the students more engaged? How would you bring in a community partner for employability skills? [03:19] Asking this question in just a little bit of a different way enables social study teachers to connect their lessons to kids' lives today. [04:16] Don't let community partners be a hurdle. You can bring in someone local that has knowledge on the topic. [07:35] Christine Guthrie used to think PPL was engaging, but now she knows it's empowering. She has a structure to engage 21st century skills while empowering lifelong learning. [07:51] Ethan used to think PBL was centered around a project. Now he thinks it's centered around a solution. [08:00] Carl used to think PBL would be stressful and hard for students and himself. Now he thinks it will be a good process to engage students. [08:19] Kristen thought PBL would make it hard to hit their standards, now she thinks she'll hit them in a more meaningful way. [11:52] I also have four more teachers for you to hear from. You'll notice a theme from them about how they now realize how valuable the community partner aspect is.
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| What Does A Leader Need to Know About Project Based Learning? And How to Learn It! | E93 | 07 Sep 2022 | 00:17:52 | |
This PBL Leadership episode is about increasing your PBL knowledge. The big question that people often ask is how to bring PBL to my school or district. I'm going to talk about doing PBL well in a way that makes it sustainable for your school or district. Building PBL knowledge is the main focus today. People often ask if their PBL unit has to revolve around a real problem. We have strong feelings about this, and I discuss why you need to bring authenticity to the classroom in today’s “need to know”. In our PBL Jumpstart or certification we talk about real problems that need to be solved, because authenticity turns into aspirations.
Episode Highlights: [02:20] "Need to Know" Does your PBL unit have to revolve around real world problems? We actually think it does need to be a real world problem that brings authenticity to your classroom. [02:48] When you go through PBL Jumpstart or Certification, we are going to be talking about real problems that need to be solved. [03:14] You don't want to skill and drill learners that are behind in the language arts because the context and authenticity gives them extra handholds to pin their learning to. [06:42] As a leader, you should have some knowledge around Project Based Learning. Listening to this podcast is a great start. [08:59] As you build your PBL knowledge, you also start to ask the right questions. Where do standards fit? How do your Community Partners tie in? [11:04] At some point, you're going to want to visit a PBL school. Bring the stakeholders that matter most for school change. [15:48] Once you build your knowledge, bring others alongside you like your teachers.
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| Bonus Episode - Larry Smith - 6 Word Memoirs | E92 | 31 Aug 2022 | 00:33:47 | |
Can you sum up your life or express your feelings in six words? Surprisingly, a simple six-word statement can be used to share your story, emotions, dreams, or just what you’re thinking about right now. Larry Smith is the founder and editor of SMITH Magazine and the man behind Six-Word Memoirs®. This movement has evolved into books, an app, a game, and a great way to get people to write. Larry is incredibly passionate about education and shares great insights into his Six in Schools program that supports teachers with guides and resources for using this concept with their students. There is even a pilot program where this method eventually leads to a book. Larry breaks everything down in his own words, and his passion for the program is contagious.
Episode Highlights: [02:14] Larry started this movement to get the essence of any or all of your life. He wanted to create an entity that's about regular people telling stories. He created Smith Magazine. A story project that worked as describing your life in six words or less. [06:44] What started as a way to tell a story became a method to get people started with telling their story. It blossomed as a writing prompt in the education space. [11:00] This method inspires success! Blank pages are scary for everyone. Six words will get you through the blank page. [16:43] It's one more tool in the tool box for teachers. [19:27] The Simplicity of six words is also great to onboard kids with disabilities. Show examples to get kids started. It's just one little slice of life. [23:51] You can also theme out the six words or use it as an ice breaker.
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| Leader of Leaders | E91 | 24 Aug 2022 | 00:23:33 | |
Dr. Dan Kreiness from Leader of Learning is an instructional leader, podcast host, author, and speaker. He constantly looks for ways to advance education and produce high student learning. His dissertation was “Transformational Leadership to Inspire Growth Mindset in Classroom Teachers.” We dive into transformational leadership and what could hold teachers and students back. We talk about having a balance of technology in the classroom and how to alleviate teacher resistance to creating a student-centered classroom. He also shares some student stories and the best way to start getting teachers comfortable with Project Based Learning.
Episode Highlights: [02:35] Dan wanted to find a way for school leaders to help combat teacher resistance to change. He also wrote his dissertation on this and having a growth mindset. [04:59] We're still seeing teachers who are resistant to turning time over to students and trusting and empowering them. [05:51] Dan's “why” is to help educators grow their impact as instructional leaders. [08:12] Dan shares an amazing student story that helps illustrate why he is so passionate about growth and impact. [12:42] He has great guests on his Leader of Learning podcast. Dan brings guests that will teach him a lot. He's also noticed that teacher's are struggling with instructional technology. [14:52] Students will need to use technology for future readiness. You need to find a balance with blended learning. [18:31] To implement Project Based Learning, you have to get teachers and staff comfortable with releasing control over to the students.
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| Project Based Learning Research Part 2 | E90 | 17 Aug 2022 | 00:19:13 | |
This is the second part of my deep dive into the Lucas Research Study on Project Based Learning. You can find the first part in episode 88. The research findings absolutely dispel the myth that PBL doesn’t improve test scores. Project Based Learning improves AP test scores for high school students and creates noticeable gains in middle school and elementary school students. It also increased engagement for the teachers. Having a culture with sustained professional learning and coaching for teachers and staff creates an environment where PBL is done right and increases outcomes and enjoyment for learners and teachers. The study shows that PBL was beneficial for all learners and staff.
Episode Highlights: [02:10] "Need to Know" - How does our PBL school get better throughout the school year? [02:50] Having a staff member or PBL coach that specifically looks at Project Based Learning and supports the staff is essential. [04:51] Administrators also need an administrative coach. You need someone outside of your staff and district to push you. [06:04] Project Based Learning boosts student learning in AP courses. [07:48] Many of the participants were from underserved communities, and the study was created to help promote equity. The program increased test performance when using Project Based Learning. [08:31] The myth that Project Based Learning does not enhance test scores has been flipped on its head. [09:37] Your staff has to have professional learning in order to implement PBL properly. [10:24] PBL also led to gains in math, science, and vocabulary learning for middle schoolers. The teachers were also more engaged. [14:48] PBL is beneficial for all students.
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| PBL Showcase - How to Implement PBL as a District | E89 | 10 Aug 2022 | 00:20:27 | |
How do you implement PBL as a district? I’m hijacking another PBL Showcase episode to talk about this important question. School leaders need to build their PBL knowledge through books, resources, and even visiting a school that has implemented PBL. I also talk about the steps that you can use to implement PBL such as design days, PBL core team, being an advocate, and observing. Our “need to know” is a continuation of last week’s episode about deep research on Project Based Learning by Lucas Research. This research backs up another huge impact of PBL. It states that adding rigorous PBL to advanced placement courses improves student achievement on AP exams. There’s a perception that PBL doesn’t help with things like high stakes exams. This research dispels that myth.
Episode Highlights: [03:38] The Lucas Research Study talks about Project Based Learning being authentic, having an inquiry-based approach, and exploring real-world problems. [03:52] This research backs up where we have the biggest impact. Adding rigorous PBL to advanced placement courses, improves student achievement on AP exams. PBL also improves science skills and social and emotional learning. [04:52] Students thrive with hands-on inquiry-based learning and have better test scores. [11:03] As a school leader, build your PBL knowledge with books and resources or visit a school that's already implemented PBL. [12:15] Create design days to spell out what your project will look like. What do you want your graduates to know? [13:37] What would your three year plan look like? [13:56] Create a PBL core team to find out if PBL will work in your district or school. [15:01] Be a PBL advocate for your facilitators. Look at your evaluation form and make PBL a positive. [16:45] Observe PBL in action. See what's happening and make sure it aligns with your vision. [17:30] How can you find community partners or get grants for your projects? Make connections and support the project as it moves forward. [17:52] Build PBL awareness. Do parents and community partners know about Project Based Learning?
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| Project Based Learning Research Part 1 | E88 | 03 Aug 2022 | 00:20:10 | |
I’ve seen lives turned around by Project Based Learning. I have loads of success stories from learners, teachers, and administrators. There is also research to back up the benefits of Project Based Learning. This leadership episode is going to be a two-part episode focusing on Research on Project Based Learning by Lucas Education Research. The brief is linked to in the resources below. This episode takes a high-level view, and then I break it down in the upcoming episode 90 as we take a deeper look. We also have a “need to know” that focuses on the question of where do I get started with PBL? I share a free resource in the show notes and other options for learning about Project Based Learning. I also share the best way to learn by visiting a school and seeing it in action.
Episode Highlights: [02:54] Where do I get started with PBL? Educate yourself with books, podcasts, videos, and visiting a school that is doing PBL. [04:01] On your visit ask good questions and be sure to talk to the learners. [05:55] It's a powerful lever for improving equity. When it's used significant learning occurs. [07:05] The study shows that when underserved students engage in PBL they learn significantly. [09:22] Learners miss out on opportunities and authentic learning experiences when not involved in Project Based Learning. [11:59] Curriculum needs to be flexible enough to pull in additional resources to help your students connect it to the work. Connections are a huge benefit. [13:06] Belonging in the school community. We need to build the culture so students are in a safe environment. [15:37] PBL also creates strong learning opportunities for teachers. Sustained high-quality professional learning.
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| Danny Bauer - Better Leaders Better Schools | E87 | 27 Jul 2022 | 00:27:50 | |
Danny Bauer from Better Leaders Better Schools is here to continue our conversation about leaders, confidence, and competence. Danny is the host of the Better Leaders, Better Schools podcast and the author of The Better Leaders Better Schools Roadmap and Mastermind. We talk about visioning your work by focusing on your vision for yourself first. Danny shares what a Ruckus Maker is and creative ideas for achieving success by coloring outside the lines. We also talk about setting up your staff for success and having an alignment of resources. Episode Highlights: [03:43] In 2019, Danny's publisher asked him to write a book about how he serves leaders. This book tells the story of the leadership community in his mastermind group. [05:08] He talks about why masterminds are a solution for creating powerful leaders and introduces the ABC's of powerful professional development. Integrating authenticity, belonging, and challenge in a meaningful way leads to life and leadership transformation. [07:25] A tip for making conferences better is to block off an extra day for journaling and making an action plan. [07:37] Masterminds happen more often, such as weekly, and you are with other people who understand what you're trying to do. You can have regular deep thinking on education and leadership while strengthening relationships. [08:57] Danny shares an example of one of his mastermind leaders that is winning and creating success. [11:44] Masterminds can be a space where you can bounce ideas off of other leaders. [12:32] The idea of being a Ruckus Maker is a tip to Seth Godin. Resources & Links Related to this Episode
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| Finding Your Bright Spots - Asset Based School Development | E185 | 05 Jun 2024 | 00:23:01 | |
Can focusing on what works transform your school? Discover the power of Asset Based School Development in our latest episode of the PBL Simplified Podcast. We'll unpack strategies for identifying and amplifying the strengths within your school community, making learning environments more positive and efficient. Learn how protocols can revolutionize project-based learning . Visit pblshare.com to share your own insights and questions and explore our upcoming workshops designed to deepen your PBL knowledge. https://magnifypbl.mykajabi.com/pmoc
SIGN UP FOR THE MAGNIFY LEARNING NEWSLETTER https://www.magnifylearningin.org/newsletter-sign-up
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ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED (affiliate link)
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST
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| PBL Leadership - Help Your Staff Become Confident Teachers | E86 | 20 Jul 2022 | 00:16:58 | |
In this leadership episode, we are talking about building confidence in your staff. How great do you think your building would be running once you've launched your vision and become a confident leader with a confident staff? You can build confidence by starting with the wins and pointing out the positive aspects of portions of PBL projects. We also have an opening need to know about how to get your staff PBL Certified. Having PBL Certified teachers in your school will revolutionize education. It will also trickle down to your new hires, because they will be training experts. Once you have PBL experts in your school it will spread to the rest of the teachers and staff.
Episode Highlights: [01:38] How do I get my staff PBL certified? [02:57] Through our PBL Certification at Magnify Learning, we get to change our relationship with you. When people become certified, we become partners at creating awesomeness. [05:01] Think of PBL Jumpstart as making it to the middle of a mountain. PBL advanced will take you a little further. To get to the top, you would become PBL certified. [08:21] When we talked about you being a confident leader, we talked about focusing on your wins. Where did you have effort, success, and progress? [09:49] If you're just starting PBL in your school, point out a place where there was success like with a community partner to build confidence. [11:08] Mine the positives when there is pushback. Point out the positive and the success. A confident mindset focuses on the positive. [13:09] Build confidence in your staff, so they will go into the training already thinking it's going to be great. [13:51] What's your why as an educator and as a school? Remind them of their why.
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| PBL Showcase - Authenticity Engages Learners and Facilitators - Ryan Steuer | E85 | 13 Jul 2022 | 00:18:44 | |
I have an exciting and personal PBL showcase today about a young man coasting in school until a PBL unit inspired him to step up and become the leader he was meant to be. It’s a PBL unit about helping parents get their questions answered after their child's genetic disease diagnosis. They want to know if their child will be okay and everything else they can learn about the condition. That’s where my class of 8th graders jumped in, and a remarkable young man named Skyler Wagoner stepped up. The idea of helping people motivated him to be the learner and leader he was meant to be. You’ll also enjoy my answer to today’s “need to know” about what type of professional development you should be doing this summer.
Episode Highlights: [01:13] Need to know: What kind of professional development should I be doing over the summer? [01:19] You should probably get some rest. Leaders and staff both need to take care of themselves. Teachers need to take care of themselves, because they just had a rough year. [01:51] Leadership always flows downhill and self-care is the first step. Take a break and maybe try some active rest like an activity you enjoy. [03:15] Decide if you want to jump into an in-person workshop. True collaboration comes with people. Find some good books to read. [07:27] My favorite PBL unit is the genetics unit. Everyday some parents find out that their child has a genetic disease. [07:49] 1. They want to know if their child is going to be okay. 2. They want to find out everything they can about the disease. [08:26] Being an eighth grader is a hopeful time where they can make a big shift. We asked 8th graders how we can best help these parents. [10:16] This project showed Skyler, who was smart but underachieving, that he could help people. When he became engaged, he was a great leader. [12:57] Seeing this is why I wanted to get involved in education.
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| PBL Leadership - Become a Confident Leader | E84 | 06 Jul 2022 | 00:17:31 | |
Our leadership episodes in July are going to revolve around confidence and how to be a confident leader. Our main topic today is about how to become a competent leader. I’m going to use some examples from The Confident Mind: A Battle-Tested Guide to Unshakable Performance by Dr. Nate Zinsser. I’ll talk about the E-S-P approach and how to draw inspiration from times when things go well. I’m also going to talk about leaders creating a clear vision in the “need to know” which ties into the main topic. It helps to make sure your vision is very clear for you and then allow other people to get on board with that vision.
Episode Highlights: [02:13] Opening "need to know" as a business leader, how do I launch my vision? How do I get everyone on board? [02:45] Leaders have a vision of what the school can be. [03:42] 1. Write out a clear distinct vision script. Think about staff, communications, impact etc. Start with the end in mind and work your way back. [04:23] 2. Give people an opportunity to speak into that vision. Bring people in and find out where you can tie them into your vision. [05:55] 3. How do you get everyone on board? Focus on the why and the innovation curve. [11:18] Fear of being a good leader comes from lacking confidence. Dr. Zinsser talks about the first win taking place in our minds. [12:03] We need to visualize things going well. [13:30] Use the E-S-P approach and look back on your day and find one spot where you had a really great effort. Wins will inspire more wins and confidence inspires more confidence.
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