Welcome back, teachers! In this special back-to-school episode of the Great Teachers Movement Podcast, we’ve gathered the best first-day-of-school tips from some of our favorite past guests. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, these tips will help set a positive tone, build relationships with students, and create an engaging learning environment from day one. Hosts: Pat Hendrickson and Steve Smith Guests: Elaine Cruse- Licensed pharmacist, pharmacy tech, and clinical instructor. John Haney - Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, MacEwen University, CanadaDirector, ThreeSixty Analysis Inc. Sherry Woitte - Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies at the University of Alberta, Canada David Wohl, Ph.D. - Professor and Dean Emeritus, Winthrop University Elizabeth Burton - Assistant Professor of English at Hopkinsville Community College Missi Patterson, Ph.D. - Professor Of Psychology, Austin Community College Carolyn Ives, M.A.- Coordinator, Learning and Faculty Development and co-chair of the Learning Design and Innovations Department at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). Paul Martin, Ph.D. -Director of Curriculum Development and Delivery, Open Learning, at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, British Columbia Mary Jo Westerfield, R.N. - Instructor, ASN, Somerset Community College, Kentucky, USA Megan Dotson, MAE- Professor, Developmental Studies, West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC)   Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast.   Resources About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost! 

Co-hosts Pat Hendrickson, Ed.D., Core Variable, and Steve Smith, M.A., C.P.P. 1st Person Seminar In this episode of the Great Teachers Movement podcast, Steve talks with Pat about her recent transition to a new school. Pat shares her experiences, discussing both the challenges and opportunities that come with starting fresh in a new environment. They explore the importance of building relationships with students and colleagues, adapting to a new school culture, and maintaining a positive mindset during the transition. Steve also reflects on his learning journey, reminding us that learning starts when we enter the world and continues throughout our lives. Together, they emphasize the value of being lifelong learners and how embracing new experiences can enhance both teaching and personal growth. Resources Biteable - online video maker and editor About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Guest Megan Dotson, MAE  Professor, Developmental Studies, West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. In this episode of the Great Teachers Movement podcast, Pat and Steve chat with Megan Dotson, a seasoned professor of developmental studies whose teaching journey spans from pre-K to college. Megan explores the “Jigsaw” strategy for group work, a dynamic approach that keeps students engaged and encourages diverse perspectives. She also shares insights into the innovative Accelerate You! The program integrated embedded tutors to help students struggling with General Education courses—guiding them toward earning their degrees. Megan then discusses the trend of rising tuition costs and affordability challenges. Our guest also reflects on what she wishes she had known before she started teaching and shares a book that is currently changing the way she thinks. Wrapping up, Megan offers a glimpse into one of her first-day activities and pays tribute to her favorite teacher. Resources: Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices for a World Gone Mad by John Eldredge Lucidspark About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Guest Mary Jo Westerfield, R.N. Instructor, ASN, Somerset Community College, Kentucky, USA Former Director of Obstetrics at Saint Joseph London, London, Kentucky   Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast.   In this episode, we sit down with Mary Jo, a dedicated nurse and nurse educator, to explore her journey from clinician to educator. Mary Jo shares her initial thoughts on teaching strategies and how she naturally gravitated towards methods used by her peers in the nursing discipline. She then discusses the value of exploring the methods in other disciplines. Mary Jo provides valuable insights on moving from hands-on clinical work to the world of education, discussing the challenges and rewards of this significant career shift. She also explains how she uses Kahoot to seamlessly transition students from one day's instruction to the next, highlighting the effectiveness of 5-10 question quizzes as a formative assessment tool. Addressing the debate on study guides, Mary Jo explores different approaches and shares the method that works best for her and her students. Her approach to teaching clinical skills emphasizes hands-on experience and practical application, ensuring competency-based learning. She underscores the significance of incorporating culturally relevant pedagogy in nursing education and discusses how ethics across different cultures play a crucial role in her teaching methods. A memorable moment in the interview is when Mary Jo shares the story behind what caused her to lie down on the floor of her office—a moment of vulnerability and learning. In a first for our podcast, host Steve challenges Mary Jo to respond to three emerging trends in education, and she provides her take on each trend and its potential impact on the future of nursing education. Tune in to this episode for valuable insights and practical strategies from a seasoned nurse educator. Whether you're a fellow educator or simply interested in the field of nursing, Mary Jo's experiences and advice are sure to inspire and inform.   Resources: Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning Hardcover – April 14, 2014 by Peter C. Brown (Author), Henry L. Roediger III (Author), Mark A. McDaniel (Author) Kahoot is a free game-based learning platform that makes it fun to learn – any subject, in any language, on any device About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Guests: Shari Thompson, Hopkinsville Community College, TNMursalata Muhammad, Grand Rapids Community College, MI  Maayan Ornath, Nashville State Community College; TNAshley Garrett,  Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC), KY Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. In this special episode, we bring a broadcast from the National Great Teachers Seminar! Four outstanding educators join us to share their first impressions and key takeaways from this transformative experience. From innovative teaching strategies to personal growth, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for educators everywhere. Resources About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost! 

Guests: Carolyn Ives, M.A., and Paul Martin, Ph.D. Carolyn Ives (she/her) is a Coordinator, Learning and Faculty Development and co-chair of the Learning Design and Innovations Department at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). She is a former faculty member in English at MacEwan University and at TRU, and she has also held previous roles as Academic Integrity Officer, Academic Quality Assurance Manager, Curriculum Planning and Development Coordinator, and Interim Director of the Centre for the Advancement of Faculty Excellence at MacEwan. Her current research focuses on evidencing value of educational development work, decolonizing academic integrity, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), open pedagogical practices, and humanizing science education. Recent work also includes open educational resources for faculty for course design and for students engaging in competency-based PLAR. As a Métis and neurodiverse faculty member, she cares deeply about making space for multiple perspectives in learning spaces.  Dr. Paul Martin is the Director of Curriculum Development and Delivery, Open Learning, at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, British Columbia. There, he oversees not only the design and development of Open Learning’s course offerings but also the delivery of their courses to nearly 30,000 students annually. Prior to joining TRU in 2019, he was the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Marquette University (2018-19), Faculty Development Coordinator at MacEwan University (2011-2018), and an Assistant Professor of English and Director of Canadian Studies at the University of Vermont (2003-2011). Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. Steve leads today's podcast by introducing two leaders of the Great Teachers Movement in Canada. He also shares some of his cultural norms with us and wonders if listeners know where he was raised because of his accent. Carolyn and Paul share that they are joining the podcast from one of the Thompson Rivers University campuses. Thompson Rivers University (TRU) campuses are on the traditional lands of the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc (Kamloops campus) and the T’exelc (Williams Lake campus) within Secwepemcúl’ecw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc. The TRU region also extends into the territories of the St’át’imc, Nlaka’pamux, Nuxalk, Tŝilhqot'in, Dakelh, and Syilx peoples. We explore active learning and gamification in this exciting second part of our interview with Carolyn and Paul. Both educators share their expertise and passion for innovative teaching methods that keep students engaged. We begin with a lively discussion on active learning, highlighting how it transforms the classroom experience. Carolyn and Paul offer insights into making learning more dynamic and interactive. Paul then explains a gamification model a colleague used in her course, detailing elements that make learning fun and engaging. He also discusses challenges with colleagues and administration when introducing new methods and shares strategies to overcome resistance. Paul shares his favorite app for tracking attendance, noting its user-friendly features. Carolyn contributes with apps she uses and some reliable old-school methods. Together, they provide a balanced view of high-tech and traditional gamification approaches. Steve shares one of his favorite games - The Crime Scene Wig. An interesting segment features Carolyn and Paul’s differing approaches to introducing the syllabus. Their contrasting styles offer valuable insights into influencing classroom dynamics. Carolyn and Paul’s enthusiasm and commitment to student success are evident throughout the episode. Their stories, tips, and advice provide a wealth of information for educators looking to innovate and inspire. This is part 2 of the interview with Carolyn and Paul. Resources: Impact of Generative Artificial IntelligenceI o

Guests: Carolyn Ives, M.A., and Paul Martin, Ph.D. Carolyn Ives (she/her) is a Coordinator, Learning and Faculty Development and co-chair of the Learning Design and Innovations Department at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). She is a former faculty member in English at MacEwan University and at TRU, and she has also held previous roles as Academic Integrity Officer, Academic Quality Assurance Manager, Curriculum Planning and Development Coordinator, and Interim Director of the Centre for the Advancement of Faculty Excellence at MacEwan. Her current research focuses on evidencing value of educational development work, decolonizing academic integrity, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), open pedagogical practices, and humanizing science education. Recent work also includes open educational resources for faculty for course design and for students engaging in competency-based PLAR. As a Métis and neurodiverse faculty member, she cares deeply about making space for multiple perspectives in learning spaces.  Dr. Paul Martin is the Director of Curriculum Development and Delivery, Open Learning, at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, British Columbia. There, he oversees not only the design and development of Open Learning’s course offerings but also the delivery of their courses to nearly 30,000 students annually. Prior to joining TRU in 2019, he was the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Marquette University (2018-19), Faculty Development Coordinator at MacEwan University (2011-2018), and an Assistant Professor of English and Director of Canadian Studies at the University of Vermont (2003-2011). Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. Steve leads today's podcast by introducing two leaders of the Great Teachers Movement in Canada. He also shares some of his cultural norms with us and wonders if listeners know where he was raised because of his accent. Carolyn and Paul share that they are joining the podcast from one of the Thompson Rivers University campuses. Thompson Rivers University (TRU) campuses are on the traditional lands of the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc (Kamloops campus) and the T’exelc (Williams Lake campus) within Secwepemcúl’ecw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc. The TRU region also extends into the territories of the St’át’imc, Nlaka’pamux, Nuxalk, Tŝilhqot'in, Dakelh, and Syilx peoples. This episode explores various teaching strategies, especially how reading can profoundly influence teaching practices. Our distinguished guests, Paul Martin and Carolyn Ives, share how powerful books reshaped their approach to education, fostering more engaging, inclusive, and effective classrooms. Carolyn shares the books inspired her to cultivate a hopeful and resilient classroom atmosphere, encouraging critical thinking and deep engagement among her students. She also explains how one guidebook prompted her to implement anti-racist strategies in her writing workshops, creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. Paul discusses how one book helped him connect physical activity and cognitive function, leading him to integrate movement into his teaching to enhance student engagement and learning. Yet another resource has the hosts and guests reflect on how understanding the underlying causes of cheating has influenced his approach to assessments and fostering academic integrity. Key Topics: Fostering hopeful and engaged learning environments Implementing anti-racist practices in education The impact of physical exercise on cognitive performance and student engagement Addressing and mitigating academic dishonesty in the classroom This episode is essential for educators, administrators, and anyone interested in the transformative power of reading on teaching practices. Our guests offer valuable insights, personal stories, and practical tips on creating more

Guest: Missi Patterson, Ph.D. Professor Of Psychology, Austin Community CollegePast President of Texas Community College Teachers AssociationPiper Award Nominee for Austin Community CollegeNISOD Excellence Award for Teaching Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. This episode features an educator who has led and facilitated a Great Teaching Retreat at her institution and participated as both facilitator and participant in the National Great Teachers Seminar. This week starts with discussing the distinction between seminars and retreats, emphasizing the rationale behind their nomenclature. Our guest introduces her innovative "collaborative curve" for exam scoring, encouraging group effort and collective problem-solving, leading to a deeper understanding of the subject matter through peer interaction. The discussion then moves to the importance of large group projects and effective grouping strategies, highlighting the use of group work surveys to optimize dynamics and focus on goals, grading, and timing. Missi shares her insights into gamification in classrooms, providing examples like using clickers in human sexuality courses to reduce discomfort and encourage participation. She discusses creative gamification techniques such as giant Jenga cubes and flyswatters for exam reviews, emphasizing the joy of making learning fun. The conversation also covers Missi's transition from punitive practices to a kindness-focused teaching approach, stressing the importance of a supportive classroom environment. Steve discusses how self-perception and cultural roots influence teaching styles and classroom management. This leads to a discussion on the value of the Great Teachers approach for adjuncts and veteran teachers, highlighting the importance of learning and listening to others. Missi concludes by pointing out that brilliance in teaching may be overrated, advocating for practical strategies and continuous improvement over innate intelligence. Join us as we engage in conversation with Missi. Resources: Student Engagement Techniques: A Handbook for College Faculty 2nd Editionby Elizabeth F. Barkley (Author), Claire H. Major (Author) About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!       

Guest: Elizabeth Burton Assistant Professor of English at Hopkinsville Community College Writer of (mostly) literary fiction Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of teaching with Elizabeth, an inspiring educator who shares her journey and methods that have left a lasting impact on her students. Elizabeth recounts the poignant story of her favorite teacher who instilled in her the confidence to pursue her dreams, demonstrating the profound influence a single teacher can have on a student's life. The discussion explores how positive reinforcement and personalized attention can change the trajectory of a student's life. Elizabeth describes her innovative method of incorporating life lessons alongside academic content, using object lessons to help students grasp and remember concepts more effectively. She emphasizes the importance of building community in the classroom, sharing, "I care about them as a human being, it offers community, and cuts down on students coming in late because they want to know what the life lesson is." Steve is amazed as he does the math on one of Elizabeth's lessons and sees its effectiveness in encouraging student mastery. The conversation shifts to the urgent need for mental health supports for students, both on campus and in online classrooms. Elizabeth stresses the importance of fostering a supportive environment and providing mental health resources. Host Pat adds her perspective, sharing her experience with outsourced mental health services and their impact on student support. Elizabeth also offers strategies to guide students to mental health resources and manage them in both online and seated courses. She addresses student reluctance towards group work and shares strategies for encouraging participation. Additionally, she introduces her favorite new platform that engages students by simulating a social media environment for discussions. The episode concludes with encouragement for listeners to reflect on how they can positively impact others' lives, whether in a teaching role or otherwise. Join us for an inspiring discussion on the power of great teaching and how it can shape the future, one student at a time. Tune in and be part of the movement! Resources: Motivating Students Who Don't Care: Proven Strategies to Engage All Learners, Second Edition (Proven Strategies to Motivate Struggling Students and Spark an Enthusiasm for Learning) Perusall - Transform nearly any type of course content into a social learning experience, driving meaningful engagement and deeper understanding. Murdle.com -  Daily Mystery Puzzles by  G. T. Karber About the National Great Teachers Movement Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Guest: David Wohl, Ph.D.Professor and Dean Emeritus, Winthrop UniversityFormerly, Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Winthrop University and Dean of Arts and Humanities at West Virginia State University Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. With an illustrious career in academia and the arts, David was the Artistic Director of the Charleston Stage Company in West Virginia. His scholarly contributions include publications in Theatre Journal, Southern Theatre, the Journal of the Association for Communication Administration, and ArtWorks. Notably, he helped create the Cultural Resources and Capitol Improvement grant, securing $8 million for arts organizations in West Virginia. Our guest has received accolades such as the Mayor's Award for Artist of the Year from Charleston, WV, and a Lifetime Achievement Arts award from WV Governor Joe Manchin. As a co-producer, he has worked on films like "Chillers" and "Paradise Park." His directing credits include notable productions such as "Hamlet," "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and "Sweeney Todd." He has also taken on significant acting roles in "The Tempest," "The Elephant Man," and "Angels in America." In this episode, David shares insights on current trends in education, ranging from the impact of student demonstrations and protests to the innovative use of AI for improving student feedback in his teaching practice. He also offers his thoughts on the importance of teaching students to develop a tolerance for ambiguity, preparing them for the complexities of the modern world.  Co-host Steve shares his insights on a crushing episode in his educational early life that haunted him for decades. Tune in and find out what that's all about. Join us as we dive into an enlightening conversation with David. Resources: ChatGPT About the National Great Teachers Movement West Virginia Great Teachers Seminar Reports Other Great Teachers Resources Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Guest: Sherry WoitteFaculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies at the University of Alberta, Canada Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. In this episode of the Great Teachers Movement podcast, we delve into the enriching journey of Sherry Woitte, a seasoned post-secondary early childhood educator, and her evolution from participant to facilitator within the Great Teachers' community. Sherry shares her professional growth and the profound impact that Canadian seminars held in the picturesque Banff National Park have had on her teaching career. With over 20 years of experience as a "Great Teachers veteran," she provides deeper insights into the process behind the scenes and the richness of the seminar experience, characterized by a rigid minimal structure with abundant opportunities for learning and sharing. As we explore Sherry's journey, we uncover the essence of the Great Teachers Movement – fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration. Sherry discusses the transition from participant to facilitator, highlighting the importance of embracing new perspectives and sharing knowledge with fellow educators. Throughout the episode, Sherry reflects on current trends in education, including the integration of AI-friendly assignments and effective strategies for group work. She emphasizes the foundational role of relationships in the learning process and shares David Gottshall's innovative activities that have become synonymous with the movement. Join us as Sherry Woitte provides valuable insights into overcoming teaching challenges, fostering positive learning environments, and embracing the ever-evolving landscape of education. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your journey, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom to elevate your teaching practice. Recommended Resources: The Hundred Languages of Children Loris Malaguzzi Reggio Emilia https://www.reggiochildren.it/en/rc/exhibitions/the-hundred-languages-of-children/   https://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Languages-Children-Experience-Transformation-dp-0313359814/dp/0313359814/ref=dp_ob_title_bk ChatGPT https://chatgpt.com/?oai-dm=1 Information and resources about the Great Teachers Movement. Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Guest: John HaneyRetired Senior Executive, Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceAssistant Professor of Criminal Justice, MacEwen UniversityDirector, ThreeSixty Analysis Inc. Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. In this episode, we are joined by John Haney, a seasoned educator and former senior executive with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Canada's federal police force. In his role there, he participated directly in a summit involving Bill Clinton and his staff. John brings a unique perspective on relational teaching and the integration of artificial intelligence to create dynamic learning experiences. With his wealth of experience, he shares insights on fostering connections in the classroom and overcoming challenges, especially in the current educational landscape.  John emphasizes the significance of connecting with students on a personal level to enhance the learning experience. He discusses his instructional strategy, advocating for small, impactful changes that make students feel safe and valued. John explores the use of tools like Padlet to engage introverted students and create an inclusive learning environment. How can a three-hour class become an engaging session that students eagerly anticipate? Our guest delves into the power of interaction and active participation, sharing strategies to revitalize the classroom dynamic. By leveraging AI, John illustrates how educators can create a culture of engagement and foster meaningful connections. Fostering student engagement has become increasingly challenging in the era of COVID-19. John shares practical strategies for encouraging participation and empowering all students to contribute, regardless of their background or disposition. By creating a supportive atmosphere and embracing vulnerability, he demonstrates how educators can nurture critical thinking skills and facilitate meaningful interactions. Co-host Steve shares about MacEwen University's role in spearheading The Great Teachers Movement in Canada. Recommended Resources: Teaching by Heart: One Professor's Journey to Inspire by Thomas J. DeLong https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=57680 Padlet (https://padlet.com/) ChatGPT https://chatgpt.com/?oai-dm=1 Information and resources about the Great Teachers Movement. Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. In this episode, we explore the practice of mindfulness in educational settings. Our guest, Elaine Cruse, a licensed pharmacist, pharmacy tech and clinical instructor, shares her expertise and experiences, offering valuable insights into integrating mindfulness practices into the classroom environment. Elaine is a seasoned educator and mindfulness advocate who is passionate about bringing mindfulness into classrooms. Her work is informed by years of teaching experience and a commitment to fostering holistic learning environments. She provides practical advice for educators on how to approach the pivotal first day of class, setting the stage for a mindful and welcoming learning atmosphere. Elaine highlights the impactful work of the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults, emphasizing its resources and support for educators seeking to incorporate mindfulness into their teaching practices. Drawing from her rich experience, Elaine discusses incorporating mindfulness practices into the classroom, referencing initiatives such as Brianna M. Hudak's Mindfulness in the Classroom elective at the University of Illinois Chicago. Elaine shares effective strategies for teachers to address challenges of student disengagement with course material, offering practical approaches to reinvigorate student interest and participation. Elaine recommends essential reading materials for educators interested in deepening their understanding of mindfulness in education. Among her recommended titles are: The Mindful Twentysomething by Holly B. Rodgers Mindfulness for the Next Generation by Holly B. Rodgers The Holy Man by Susan Trott Elaine introduces innovative tech tools such as Poll Everywhere's "Gizmos and Gadgets," providing educators with dynamic methods to enhance student engagement and interaction in the classroom. Our conversation with Elaine Cruse underscores the transformative potential of mindfulness in education. By integrating mindfulness practices, educators can create nurturing learning environments that support students' holistic development. Resources Mentioned: Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults: Website The Mindful Twentysomething by Holly B. Rodgers: Amazon Mindfulness for the Next Generation: Amazon The Holy Man by Susan Trott: Amazon Gizmos and Gadgets - Poll Everywhere: Website Information and resources about the Great Teachers Movement. Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay Visit our sponsor, The Roost Laptop Stand, and subscribe to the podcast to be entered into a drawing for your very own Roost!   

Welcome to The Great Teachers Movement Podcast! Hosts Pat and Steve embark on an exhilarating journey into the world of teaching, blending seminar experiences with thought-provoking conversations. Each week, they feature guests who have participated in, facilitated, or hosted seminars, exploring the essence of being a great teacher. This podcast is a personal odyssey, inviting listeners to uncover profound insights about themselves through the exploration of teaching's heart. Join them on this adventure to delve deep into the mysteries of teaching and celebrate the transformative power of education. Whether you're a seminar veteran,  newcomer, or never attended a seminar, you're in for a great conversation! Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and entertained as you experience the intellectual buzz of a seminar firsthand on The Great Teachers Movement Podcast. Listen and subscribe on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts Podbean App Spotify Amazon Music iHeartRadio PlayerFM Samsung Podchaser BoomPlay