Innovating Education

From Calculators to Confidence: Transforming Math Learning with Darren Finnigan

In this episode of Innovating Education, Dr. Riley Williams sits down with Darren Finnegan, mathematics educator, entrepreneur, and founder of TutorMyMath.com. Darren shares his inspiring journey—from struggling with math and relying on a calculator to earning a master’s degree in mathematics and helping others conquer math anxiety.

Together, they challenge the idea that only certain people are “math people” and explore how creativity, curiosity, and personalized learning can transform the way students engage with math. Darren also reveals innovative teaching methods that move beyond rote memorization, helping students build confidence and real-world problem-solving skills.

🎧 Tune in for actionable strategies to make math more accessible, engaging, and enjoyable.

Beyond Pro-Cons: The Power of APE in Educational Psychology with Dr. Richard Feenstra

In this episode of Innovating Education, host Dr. Riley Williams interviews Dr. Richard Feenstra, an educational psychologist known for his global impact and development of the APE model for decision-making. Feenstra discusses his journey from being a police officer to an educational psychologist, highlighting the limitations of traditional decision-making models in high-stakes environments. He explains the APE model—Assess, Plan, Execute—as a dynamic system that integrates goals and operates in real-world scenarios. Dr. Feenstra also addresses the challenges learners face when mastering decision-making and how he tailors his workshops for culturally diverse audiences. The conversation delves into mental contrasting, feedback, and the balance of reflection and action. Finally, Dr. Feenstra shares how educators and organizations can incorporate the APE model into their professional development programs.

The Professor's Perspective: Transforming Student Ownership and Literacy with Dr. Amy Downey

In this episode of 'Innovating Education,' host Riley interviews Dr. Amy Downey, an experienced educational leader who has dedicated over three decades to transforming student learning. Dr. Downey discusses her journey into education, the importance of relationships over grades in motivating students, and her pioneering efforts in developing programs like 'Just Read'—a literacy initiative that promotes student choice in reading materials. She shares insights into key strategies such as student-led conferences, home visits, and standards-based grading that foster student ownership and engagement. The conversation covers the importance of a livable mission and vision for schools, systemic challenges, technological tools, and the future of education. Dr. Downey emphasizes that the most valuable commodities are children and the educators who teach them, advocating for critical thinking and societal support for education.

 

Nurturing the Next Generation: University-School Partnerships in Action with Dr. Aletha Williams

In this episode of 'Innovating Education,' Riley discusses the importance of partnerships between universities and school districts in improving teacher preparation and student outcomes with Dr. Aletha Williams. They emphasize the necessity of strong mentor teachers, continuous collaboration, and trust among stakeholders. They explore the role of these partnerships in addressing educational equity and access issues, with strategies to overcome obstacles like societal issues and policy restrictions. Dr. Williams highlights the role of community colleges, enhanced mentorship programs, and innovative trends such as 'two plus two' programs in fostering effective teacher education. The episode concludes by stressing the importance of recognizing the value of teachers.

Administrator's Approach: Bridging Cultures in Global Education with Dr. Mary Pilant

In this episode of Innovating Education, Riley interviews Dr. Mary Pilant, Vice Principal at Dyer Private Academy in the United Arab Emirates, about her journey from the U.S. to the UAE. Dr. Pilant discusses the cultural and educational differences between the two countries, the benefits and challenges of teaching in the UAE, and the overall value and status of educators around the world. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing educators, sharing her experiences integrating American teaching methodologies into the UAE's school system. The conversation highlights the significance of cultural understanding and the need for educators to prepare students for a globalized world.

The Professor's Perspective: Exploring Strategic Growth with Dr. Ryan Longnecker

In this episode of the Innovating Education podcast, Riley interviews Dr. Ryan Longnecker, Associate Dean of Online Leadership Studies and Organizational Development at Trevecca Nazarene University. The conversation covers Dr. Longnecker’s leadership approach, which he likens to Professor Dumbledore from Harry Potter, and his emphasis on building a supportive and diverse cohort model in education. They discuss the importance of feedback, lifelong learning, and the integration of AI in education. Dr. Longnecker also highlights the significance of teamwork and practical application in leadership training. The episode concludes with reflections on growth, change, and embracing one's journey.

Administrator's Approach: Collaborative Strategies for Inclusive Education with Dr. Jody Miller

In this episode of 'Innovating Education,' Riley sits down with Dr. Jody Miller, the director of Coral Reef Academy in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Dr. Miller discusses her two-decade-long journey in revolutionizing special education leadership. She shares insights on her mission to create transformative educational services for students with unique needs, focusing on operational excellence and program expansion. Dr. Miller talks about her experiences in establishing schools tailored to diverse communities, her approach to addressing critical gaps in classrooms, and actionable strategies for improving classroom behavior and fostering positive environments. She emphasizes the importance of individualized education plans, collaborative efforts among educators, and compassionate teaching methods.

Navigating AI Ethics in Education with Rebecca Boltsma

Welcome to another episode of Innovating Education! This time, we delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics in modern classrooms with Rebecca Boltsma, an AI ethics and education strategist. Rebecca, currently the Chief Innovation Officer at Amplify and Elevate Innovation, discusses the implications of AI in education, covering crucial topics like student privacy, algorithmic bias, equitable access to AI tools, and ethical guidelines for AI use. She provides insights on recognizing biases in AI systems, balancing AI efficiency with human oversight, and addressing challenges like AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes. Additionally, Rebecca sheds light on the importance of AI literacy and the need for transparent and fair AI policies. Join us for this enlightening conversation to understand how we can responsibly integrate AI into our education systems.

Contact

Rebecca Bultsma Website

Rebecca Bultsma's LinkedIn

 

Deepfake Identification Support

True Media 

 

Ethics Competitions

 

TKEthics Global Olympiad

Global AI Debates