306: The Power of Purposeful Play with Dr. Kristen Craft
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
Release Date: 10/16/2023
Future-proofing students through service learning
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
In this conversation, Tricia Friedman and discuss the evolving landscape of service learning and education. They explore the importance of experiential learning, community engagement, and the need for transformative teaching practices that resonate with students. LeeAnne shares practical examples and insights on how educators can adapt their approaches to foster curiosity, joy, and meaningful connections in the classroom. The discussion also touches on the significance of future-proofing education by equipping students with essential skills for the complexities of the modern world. Chapters...
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Help students have a healthier relationship with the news
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
In this episode, Jeff Utecht interviews Jack Brewster, CEO of , discussing the importance of news literacy, the impact of misinformation, and how Newsreel aims to engage students with high-quality news. They explore the role of social media and AI in journalism, the skills needed for future journalists, and how educators can utilize Newsreel to enhance students' critical thinking and media consumption habits. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Newsreel and Its Mission 02:29 The Role of News Literacy in Education 05:09 Engaging Students with Newsreel 09:00 Misinformation on Social Media 09:49...
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The Future of Civics with Joshua M. Scacco, PhD
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Tricia Friedman and Dr. Joshua Scacco explore the evolving landscape of political communication, emphasizing the impact of technology and attention fatigue on democracy. They discuss the dual nature of change in political engagement, the importance of understanding human behavior, and the challenges posed by the entertainmentification of politics. Scacco highlights the need for future researchers to adapt to new communication styles and the role of regulation in shaping political messaging. The conversation concludes with a focus on building community and preparing individuals for meaningful...
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The Future of School with Dr. Annalies Corbin
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht interviews Dr. Annalies Corbin, author of 'Hacking School: Five Strategies to Link Learning to Life.' They discuss the origins of the PAST Foundation, the importance of STEM identity, and the five key strategies for educational reform. Annalies emphasizes the need for cultural relevance, student agency, and problem-based learning in education. They also explore the challenges educators face in implementing these changes, the impact of standardized testing, and the concept of wicked problems in education. The conversation highlights the...
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Mental Health Meets AI: What Alongside Is Teaching Us About Students Today
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
What if AI could help schools not just support educators as they work to manage student mental health needs, but prevent crises before they start? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Elsa Friis, licensed clinical psychologist from returns to discuss how her team is using clinician-built AI tools to support students, educators, and families. From building trust through anonymity to boosting classroom attendance, Elsa shares research, real stories, and the myths she’s constantly debunking. 🎧 You’ll hear about: Why mental health support doesn't need to be 55 minutes long to make...
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Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
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Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht speaks with Jackie Insinger and Monica White about their book, 'Spark Brilliance for Educators.' They discuss the application of positive psychology in education, the importance of addressing teacher burnout, and the transformative impact of the Spark framework on both teachers and students. The conversation highlights the significance of authentic connections in the classroom and the need for a systemic approach to improve school culture and mental health. Learn more: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brilliance and Positive...
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Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
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The number one trend driving change across industries
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Stick-to-itiveness for the future world of work
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
In this conversation, Tricia Friedman speaks with Jerome James about the evolving landscape of engineering, the importance of curiosity and problem-solving skills, and how AI is changing the profession. They discuss the intersection of engineering and mental health, the significance of effective communication in energy management, and the qualities employers seek in engineers. Jerome shares insights on finding one's niche in engineering and the unexpected joys of making a positive impact through one's work. Chapters 00:00 Engineering the Future: An Introduction 03:05 Curiosity and Problem...
info_outlineIn this episode Dr. Craft shatters misconceptions and reveals the power of gaming for building social-emotional skills. How can educators effectively integrate gaming into their SEL programs?
Are You Ready To Unlock the Power of Gaming?
The power of gaming can be harnessed to forge strong peer connections among students. By instilling the elements of gaming in social-emotional learning, students can be encouraged to reflect on their emotions and reactions in gaming scenarios, apply insights to real-life contexts, and foster belonging within their peer groups. Thus, far from being a mere recreational activity, gaming can be a potent tool for facilitating improved student well-being and social-emotional growth.
Learn more about our amazing guest:
Dr. Kristen Craft has served as a teacher, principal, and district administrator in public education for the past 27 years. A champion of students, Dr. Craft is currently the Scholastic Esports Specialist for Generation Esports. She helps normalize esports in education by supporting schools and districts to create a scholastic esports pipeline.
Mentoring educational leaders, teaching aspiring principals at the university level, presenting at multiple conferences, and connecting with leaders across the country, Kristen knows the impact leaders can have on a school or district. The culmination of her time in administration at both levels represents a lifetime of love spent in the greatest profession.
She is the Gaming Concepts Podcast host and has been featured in several ed leadership podcasts and publications.
Kristen was named the 2021 Kansas Principal of the Year.
Twitter - @KristenEsports @GamingConceptsU @JoinGenEsports @HSELesports
LinkedIn - KristenEsports, Generation Esports
Links explored in this episode
‍LGBTQ Students Finding Hope in Declining Mental Health via Esports in Schools
https://www.gamingconcepts.gg/
Huge thanks to our amazing Sponsor for this episode!
For highlights from this conversation:
00:06:52 - Gaming as a Tool for Connection and Belonging
Dr. Craft explains how gaming at school provides an opportunity for students to find their peer group, build friendships across different social circles, and strengthen connections, ultimately promoting a sense of belonging.
00:09:31 - Rethinking Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Dr. Craft reflects on traditional approaches to SEL and suggests that incorporating gaming into SEL programs can make them more authentic and relevant to students. By addressing real-life challenges and experiences in gaming, students can develop skills like anger management and empathy.
00:11:08 - Using Gaming to Teach Emotional Regulation
Dr. Craft shares an example of using gaming to teach emotional regulation. By discussing instances of toxic behavior and anger in gaming, students can learn how to manage their emotions and react appropriately, not only within gaming but also in other aspects of life.
00:15:34 - The Stigma of Video Games
The guest discusses the common misconception and stigma surrounding video games, particularly among parents. She shares her own experience and emphasizes the need to normalize esports in schools.
00:17:21 - Esports and Marginalized Populations
The guest highlights the positive impact of esports on marginalized populations, specifically LGBTQ+ students. She mentions a study that showed significant growth in self-esteem among students who had mental health moments integrated into their gaming concepts curriculum.
00:18:13 - Rapid Transformation with Esports
The guest discusses the transformative effects of implementing esports in schools. She shares the results of a study where students showed tremendous gains in self-esteem within just ten weeks. Esports provides a sense of community and inclusivity for students who may feel marginalized.
00:22:12 - Leadership Skills and Career Opportunities
The guest emphasizes that esports develops leadership skills and opens up career opportunities in a rapidly growing industry. She mentions the diverse range of professions related to gaming, such as chiropractors, accountants, and lawyers. Esports prepares students for the future and helps them become successful adults.
00:25:50 - Getting Started with Esports
The guest encourages educators to reach out for support in getting started with esports. She assures that starting is not as difficult as it may seem and that they can provide guidance and solutions for challenges related to attendance, grades, student engagement, and mental health.
00:30:25 - Combatting Pushback
Dr. Craft discusses the importance of being prepared to combat pushback when championing initiatives for students, such as Esports. Leaders in education may face resistance, but pushing past it can make a tremendous difference in the lives of students.
00:31:16 - Creating a Welcoming Culture
Dr. Craft emphasizes that adding initiatives like Esports can create an inclusive and welcoming culture in schools. It is essential for educational leaders to see and fight for all students, rather than discounting or shaming them.
00:31:52 - The Role of Educational Leaders
Dr. Craft reminds leaders that their focus should be on the students, not themselves. Turning a blind eye to the needs of students is not who educational leaders should be. They should actively advocate for and support all students.
00:32:15 - Ending on a Powerful Note
Tricia thanks Dr. Craft for sharing her expertise and passion. The conversation serves as a reminder that it is ultimately about the kids and their well-being. Dr. Kraft's insights provide inspiration for educational leaders to prioritize the needs of students.