The Learning Curve ECSD

🎙️ Welcome back to Episode 8, Season 2 of The Learning Curve Podcast with Edmonton Catholic Schools! 🍎 Excited to have you back or welcome you for the first time today! 🌟 🔦 Spotlight: In this episode, we shine a light on Dr. Tim Cusack, the Dean of Concordia University, co-author of "Leader Ready." 📚 Today's interview delves into leadership in education, teacher efficacy, and the vital role of assessment literate schools. 🙏 Moment of Reflection: 🌈 Pause for a moment of wisdom and guidance. May our words inspire empathy in classrooms. Bless us with patience and resilience as we create positive learning environments. 🙏 Amen. 🌍 Land Acknowledgment: 🌲 Recognizing the traditional land of Treaty 6, paying tribute to the Métis Nation of Alberta. 🤝 Honoring the wisdom and resilience of Indigenous communities. Let's engage positively, celebrating Indigenous cultures and working towards reconciliation. 🌺 📋 Agenda: 🧠 Jennifer's Learning Lab: Explore Mental Rehearsal and Visualization to enhance student performance. 🎓 Main Guest - Dr. Tim Cusack: Dive deep into leadership principles, teacher efficacy, and assessment literate schools. 📖 Alyson's Lit Literature: Featuring "Grading for Equity" by Joe Feldman, offering insights into equitable grading practices. Let's dive in! 🙌 Gratitude: A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Tim Cusack for sharing expertise and to our dedicated listeners! 🎧 Stay connected on Instagram @ecsdlearning and subscribe for future updates. 🌟 Closing: May today's episode inspire meaningful connections and a thoughtful approach to assessment practices in education. As you continue growing, may you find fulfillment and impactful connections. Thank you for tuning in to The Learning Curve ECSD Podcast! 🎉 Guest Dr. Tim Cusack, Dean of Education for Concordia University & Author of “Leader Ready” for Corwin Links Corwin Press https://us.corwin.com/books/leader-ready-281684 Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

🎙️ Welcome Back to Episode 7, Season 2! 🎉 Thank you for joining us on The Learning Curve Podcast ECSD! Whether you're a returning listener or a newcomer, we're thrilled to have you with us today. 🙌 👨‍🏫 Meet Our Guest: Matthew Johnson, an English teacher from Ann Arbor, Michigan. 📘 His book, "Flash Feedback," offers time-saving strategies for educators to combat burnout and enhance relationships, motivation, and student ownership of learning. 🤔 Today's Focus: Grading & Assessment challenges. Let's dive into some meaningful learning! 🤝 Acknowledgment: We honor Treaty 6 land and recognize the contributions of Indigenous peoples. Let's engage positively, celebrating diversity and working towards reconciliation with respect and empathy. 🌍 📋 Agenda Highlights: Jennifer explores "The Myth of Learning Styles." Matthew shares practical strategies from his book. Tracy's "Mindset Matters" on Stereotype Threat. Alyson delves into "Digital Portfolios in the Classroom" by Matt Renwick. 🎤 Special Thanks: Gratitude to Matthew Johnson and our dedicated listeners. Connect with us on Instagram @ecsdlearning, and don't forget to subscribe for future updates. 🌱 Closing Thoughts: We hope today's episode sparks inspiration and encourages thoughtful assessment practices in education. As you continue your growth journey, may you find fulfillment and impactful connections. 👋 Thank You for Listening! 🎧 Guest Matthew Johnson, Author, Teacher, & Consultant Links  Corwin Press https://us.corwin.com/books/flash-feedback-grades-6-12-266175 Website https://matthewmjohnson.com/2019/09/27/feedback-2-0-using-digital-resources-to-give-better-feedback-faster/ Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

🎙️ Introduction: Welcome back to episode five, season two of The Learning Curve Podcast ECSD!  🌟 We're excited to bring you another episode filled with insightful discussions. Today's focus is on the intersecting Paths of Outcomes-Based Assessment & Universal Design for Learning, featuring our special guest, Dr. Shelley Moore. 🌐 Background on Dr. Shelley Moore: Dr. Shelley Moore, an expert in inclusive education, guides us through the intersection of Universal Design for Learning and Outcomes-Based Assessment, sharing her depth of knowledge and expertise. 🙏 Prayer: In a moment of reflection, let's seek guidance for our discussions on outcomes-based assessment and universal design for learning. May these conversations foster understanding, empathy, and a commitment to inclusive education. 🌍 Treaty 6 Acknowledgment: We acknowledge that we are recording on the traditional land of Treaty 6. We honor the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 4, and express gratitude to Indigenous communities for their stewardship of this land. 📋 Agenda: Let's take a quick look at what's in store in our agenda today: Jennifer's Learning Lab: Explore the concept of Chunking to support scaffolding of outcomes for student understanding and retention of concepts. Interview with Dr. Shelley Moore: A deep dive into the intersection of Universal Design for Learning and Outcomes-Based Assessment. Tracy's Mindset Matters: Tackle the crucial topic of Stereotype Threat and strategies teachers can employ to create safe and caring classrooms. Alyson's Lit Literature: Featuring the book Mathematical Mindsets by Jo Boaler. 🔚 Closing: As we wrap up this insightful episode, our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Shelley Moore for sharing her wisdom with us. Connect with us on Instagram @ecsdlearning and subscribe for more engaging episodes. Thank you for being part of The Learning Curve ECSD Podcast, where we explore the diverse paths that intersect in the world of outcomes-based assessment.  Links Dr. Shelley Moore’s website https://www.drshelleymoore.com/about 5 Moore Minutes YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@FiveMooreMinutes Guest Dr. Shelley Moore  Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

🎙️ Welcome back to episode 4 of Season 2 of The Learning Curve Podcast ECSD! We're thrilled to have you join us today for an enlightening conversation with our featured guest, Ken O'Connor. A renowned education consultant, Ken is a leading expert in student achievement communication, specializing in grading and reporting practices. 🌟 🙏 Before we delve into the insightful discussion, let's pause for reflection and prayer. We seek wisdom to prioritize the humanity of our students over grades, fostering an environment where each student feels valued. May the words in this podcast inspire fellow educators to approach their classrooms with empathy and understanding. 🌿 We acknowledge the traditional land of Treaty 6, honoring Indigenous peoples and the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 4, and their enduring contributions to this land. With gratitude, we recognize their wisdom and resilience.  🎙️ The agenda for today's episode is packed with valuable insights: 🧠 Jennifer’s Learning Lab: Explore the world of neuroscience as Jennifer unravels the power of Metacognition. 🗣️ Ken O'Connor Interview: Gain insights into assessment practices within an outcomes-based framework. Ken will discuss the moderation of standards in collaboration with colleagues to better understand proficiency and curriculum outcomes. 🤔 Mindset Matters: Tracy leads a thoughtful discussion on goal-setting with students, bringing them into the assessment process. 📚 Lit Literature: Alyson guides us through an exploration of "The Art of Coaching" by Elena Aguilar, providing insights on supporting all educators in their work. As we conclude today's agenda, we extend gratitude to Ken O'Connor for his valuable insights and to you, our listeners. Connect with us on Instagram @ecsdlearning, and subscribe for updates on future episodes. 🌟 We trust that today's episode will inspire you to connect with your colleagues in the practice of moderation and engage students in metacognition through goal-setting. As you continue on your journey of growth, may you find fulfillment and meaningful connections. Thank you for being a part of The Learning Curve ECSD Podcast. 🚀 Links Ken’s website https://www.oconnorgrading.com/ Publications https://www.oconnorgrading.com/copy-of-services New York Times Article https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/20/opinion/culture/timed-tests-biased-kids Guest Ken O’Connor, Educational Consultant Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

🎙️ Welcome back to episode three of Season 2 of The Learning Curve Podcast ECSD! We're excited to have you with us today for a deep dive into the transformative power of positive reinforcement in learning environments. 🌱 In this episode, we'll share a personal story that illustrates how positive reinforcement can create a more positive and growth-oriented atmosphere in the classroom. 🌟 💭 Imagine a classroom where a challenging student's behavior was reshaped by shifting the focus from grades to feedback and one-on-one conferencing. Discover the profound impact this approach had on the student's learning journey and emotional regulation. 🙏 Join us in a moment of reflection and prayer as we seek guidance to explore the influence of positive reinforcement in our classrooms and foster meaningful connections with our students. 🌿 We also acknowledge Treaty 6, the traditional land of the Indigenous peoples and the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 4, and their enduring contributions to this land. With gratitude, we honor their wisdom and resilience. 🎙️ In today's episode, we embark on a journey through the neuroscience of Positive Learning Environments with Jennifer Espejo-Harasimiuk. 🧠 🗣️ Our special guest, Vince Bustamante, an instructional coach and curriculum content developer, offers valuable insights on assessment practices within a standards-based/outcomes-based framework. 🤔 In our "Mindset Matters" segment, Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw leads a discussion on the powerful role of positive reinforcement in nurturing relationships, empathy, and self-awareness in our students. 📚 Alyson Gabucci takes us on a literary exploration of "Seen, Heard, Valued" by Lee Ann Jung, emphasizing the importance of supportive learning environments in our "Lit Literature" segment. 🌟 We hope today's episode inspires you to embrace positive reinforcement and create supportive learning environments for your students. Connect with us on Instagram @ecsdlearning and subscribe to the podcast to stay informed about upcoming episodes. 🚀 Thank you for being a part of The Learning Curve ECSD Podcast. As you continue your journey of growth and learning, may you find fulfillment, positivity, and meaningful connections. 🌟 Links  Contact Vince https://us.corwin.com/professional-learning-services/consultants?page=1&take=12 Great Teaching by Design https://www.amazon.ca/Great-Teaching-Design-Intention-Implementation/dp/1071818333 The Assessment Playbook https://www.amazon.com/Assessment-Playbook-Distance-Blended-Learning/dp/1071845365 Leader Ready https://www.amazon.ca/Leader-Ready-Pathways-Prepare-Aspiring/dp/1071916793 Guest Vince Bustamante, Author and Consultant with Corwin  Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

🎙️ Welcome back to episode 2 of Season 2 of The Learning Curve Podcast ECSD! Join us for a deep dive into the realm of emotional intelligence. 🧠 In this episode, we'll explore the significance of emotional intelligence in both personal and professional contexts. 🌟 💭 Reflect on moments in your own life where emotional intelligence played a pivotal role, as we share personal stories and insights that highlight the power of empathy and understanding. 🙏 Join us in a moment of reflection and gratitude as we acknowledge the traditional land of Treaty 6 and the rich contributions of Indigenous communities. We commit to embodying the principles of emotional intelligence on our journey towards reconciliation. 🌿 Discover how emotional intelligence can foster positive relationships, empathy, and self-awareness during our "Mindset Matters" segment. 📚 Alyson Gabucci reviews the book "Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain" by Zaretta Hammond in our "Lit. Literature" segment, offering valuable insights for professional learning. 🧠 Dive into the fascinating world of neuroscience with Jennifer Espejo-Harasimiuk as we explore "Dual Coding." 🎙️ Our special guest, Alicia Burdess, Numeracy Lead, shares her journey in creating thinking classrooms and shifting assessment practices in the context of math education. As we wrap up, we encourage you to apply the principles of emotional intelligence in your own life, fostering stronger relationships and resilience. 🌟 Links: https://www.aliciaburdess.com/teacher-resources Guest Alicia Burdess, Numeracy Lead for Grand Prairie & District Catholic Schools Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

📚 Welcome back to Season 2 of The Learning Curve Podcast ECSD! Join us as we explore the fascinating world of growth mindset and learning communities. 🌱 In this episode, we reflect on our own journeys of growth, highlighting the importance of embracing change and learning from our experiences. 🌟 💡 Discover the Neuroscience of the Brain with Jennifer Espejo-Harasimiuk in “The Learning Lab”, as we delve into the intricate workings of the brain and its connection to learning and mindset. 🗣️ Elana Simington, Division Principal with Leadership Support Services, shares her career experiences and insights into building inclusive learning communities for the betterment of society. 🧠 Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw discusses the significance of a growth mindset in teachers, students, and schools during our "Mindset Matters" segment. 📖 Alyson Gabucci reviews the book "Unmistakable Impact" by Jim Knight in our "Lit. Literature" segment, providing valuable insights into assessment practices. As we wrap up, we encourage you to reflect on the power of a growth mindset and how it can transform challenges into opportunities for personal and academic growth. 🚀 🙏 Join us in a moment of reflection and gratitude as we acknowledge the traditional land of Treaty 6 and the contributions of Indigenous communities. We commit to embracing humility, compassion, and collaboration on our collective journey towards growth and reconciliation. 🎧 Dive into this episode filled with knowledge and inspiration. Like, subscribe, and stay connected on social media (@ecsdlearning) to explore more topics that empower educators. Let the power of a growth mindset guide you on your journey of continuous learning! 🌿 Thank you for joining us on The Learning Curve ECSD Podcast. Wishing you a journey filled with growth, discovery, and limitless possibilities! 🌟 Guest Elana Simington, Division Principal  Segments by Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, High School Biology Consultant  Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Producer  Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant  Music by Conor McLeod  Produced with Canva, Riverside, Spotify for Podcasters, Veed, & Clipchamp

In this episode of the Learning Curve Podcast, we sit down with Tracy, an assessment & reporting consultant, to explore her inspiring journey of transformation in education. Tracy discusses how a Narrative Inquiry course fundamentally reshaped her teaching practices and assessment strategies. Tracy shares her early teaching experiences and the moment she stumbled upon the Narrative Inquiry course that ignited her passion for storytelling in education. She reveals how this newfound perspective has allowed her to create more holistic and impactful assessment techniques, ultimately benefiting both educators and students. Join us for Tracy's insightful conversation as she provides practical insights and strategies for educators looking to enhance their assessment approaches. Whether you're a teacher seeking innovative methods or intrigued by the power of narrative inquiry, this episode promises a wealth of inspiration and valuable takeaways for all educators. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Tracy Hlus-Ewaskiw, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Host Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod

In this episode of The Learning Curve, we delve into the world of junior high math education. Our guest is a math teacher who works collaboratively with her team. By emphasizing formative assessment and deliberate practice, they create a pathway for students to achieve mastery of learning outcomes. Join us as we explore the power of collaboration, formative assessment, and intentional practice in fostering mathematical proficiency. Central to their approach is the integration of formative assessment practices. Our guest teacher discusses how regular and ongoing assessment allows her team to identify students' strengths and areas for improvement, providing timely feedback and targeted support. By focusing on formative assessment, students are empowered to track their own progress and take ownership of their learning journey. The episode also delves into the concept of deliberate practice, where students engage in purposeful, targeted practice to build a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Our guest teacher shares strategies and techniques she employs in her classroom to foster this practice and support students in their quest for mastery. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Lise Hartzell, Junior High Teacher  Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Host Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod 

In this episode of The Learning Curve, we have the pleasure of hosting Brett, our physical education and wellness consultant. Brett brings his expertise to the forefront as we delve into the crucial topic of well-being in education and its impact on our daily lives. Join us as we explore the importance of taking care of our mental health. Brett discusses the integral role of physical education and wellness in promoting overall well-being. He shares insights on how educators can create inclusive and supportive environments that prioritize the mental health of students. Throughout the episode, Brett emphasizes the significance of self-care for both educators and students. He delves into the various aspects of mental health, shedding light on the importance of managing stress, building resilience, and developing healthy coping mechanisms.  Whether you're an educator seeking ways to prioritize well-being in the classroom or an individual looking to enhance your own mental health, this episode offers invaluable insights. Join us on The Learning Curve as we engage with Brett and explore the multifaceted world of well-being in education and daily life. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Brett Barron, Physical Education, Health & Wellness Consultant Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Host Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod

In this episode of The Learning Curve ECSD, titled "A School Wide Approach to Assessment," we dive into a transformative learning journey undertaken by a school that has embraced Teacher Clarity, specifically Learning Intentions and Success Criteria, as a school-wide assessment approach. In Part 1, we begin with the principal, Nicole Thomlinson, who takes us behind the scenes of leading this initiative. Nicole discusses the motivations and vision behind implementing Teacher Clarity school-wide, and how it aligns with the school's commitment to student-centered education. Throughout this enlightening conversation, Nicole highlights the importance of strong leadership and effective communication in driving change and fostering a collaborative learning culture among staff. She touches upon the strategies employed to engage and support teachers, ensuring that everyone is on board and equipped with the necessary tools to implement Learning Intentions and Success Criteria effectively. If you're a school leader, educator, or simply interested in transformative assessment practices, this episode provides valuable insights into the process of implementing Teacher Clarity at a school-wide level. Join us for Part 1 of "A School Wide Approach to Assessment" as we explore the challenges, successes, and leadership behind this initiative. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Nicole Thomlison, Principal Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Host Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod

In Part 2 of "A School Wide Approach to Assessment" on The Learning Curve ECSD podcast, we continue our exploration of Teacher Clarity, specifically Learning Intentions and Success Criteria, with a focus on the impact it has had on classroom practice and student growth. In this episode, we hear from a dedicated grade 6 teacher, Maria Gresik who shares her personal journey and the transformation she has witnessed in her students. Maria opens up about how her teaching practice has evolved since implementing Teacher Clarity in her classroom. She reflects on the initial challenges she faced and the adjustments she made to align her instructional strategies with clear Learning Intentions and Success Criteria. She also shares the specific techniques she used to effectively communicate these goals to her students, fostering a deeper understanding of the learning process and empowering them to take ownership of their education. Through heartfelt anecdotes and concrete examples, Maria describes the remarkable growth she has witnessed in her students as a direct result of embracing Teacher Clarity. She highlights the positive changes in student engagement, motivation, and overall academic performance. The episode delves into the role of formative assessment, feedback, and student reflection in nurturing this growth mindset. Further Learning  See Maria in action:  Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Maria Gresik, Elementary Teacher Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Host Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Alyson Gabucci, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod 

In this episode of The Learning Curve, junior high teacher Angelica Tan shares her personal and professional experience with language learning. She discusses how to use learning intentions and success criteria in the classroom to provide clarity on what students need to learn, why they are learning it, and how they can achieve their learning goals.  In her interview, Angelica emphasizes co-constructing success criteria, communication with students and families, and timely and specific feedback. The episode provides practical advice for teachers looking to engage in this assessment practice. Whether you're a language teacher or working on Teacher Clarity, this episode is packed with insights to engage students and foster a love of learning. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Angelica Tan, Junior High Teacher & EAL Designate Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Host Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod

In this episode of The Learning Curve, IB coordinator Meaghan Jenny shares insights on how the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) approach assessment with students at the forefront. Meaghan explains how teachers collaborate within the IB framework to provide a student-centered education. The episode highlights various assessment methods used by the IB, such as self-reflection and peer assessment, allowing students to take ownership of their learning. Meaghan emphasizes the importance of meaningful feedback and how the IB encourages students to become global citizens. Whether you're a teacher or parent, this episode is packed with insights on how the IB fosters a love of learning and empowers students to become lifelong learners. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Meaghan Jenny, PYP & MYP IB Coordinator Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Hosts Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod

In this episode of the Learning Curve Podcast ECSD, Susanna Kaup our Secondary Catholic Education Consultant shares her expertise on developing religion courses that follow outcomes-based assessment philosophies. The discussion focuses on how inquiry-based learning supports the development of the whole person and their relationship to the world through religion. Listeners will learn about the principles of outcomes-based assessment and how they can be applied to religion courses to ensure that students acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. Additionally, the benefits of inquiry-based learning are explored, including how it fosters a more meaningful and personal understanding of religious concepts. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in religion education, providing valuable insights into how religion courses can support students' growth as individuals and their understanding of their place in the world. Guests Nicole Lafrenière, Director of Curriculum & Assessment Susanna Kaup, Secondary Catholic Education Consultant Tim Cusack, Deputy Superintendent Hosts Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Jennifer Espejo Harasimiuk, Assessment & Reporting Consultant Music by Conor McLeod