House of #EdTech

House of #EdTech shares stories from teachers and creators about education technology, recommends the valuable tools, tips, and resources to integrate technology into your classroom and instruction and explores how technology is changing the way teachers teach along with the impact that technology is having in education.

[houseofedtech]

Canva Create 2025 - What's New for Educators? - HoET261

In this exciting crossover episode, Chris Nesi teams up with Leena Marie Saleh (The EdTech Guru) for a detailed look into Canva’s latest educational innovations unveiled during Canva Create 2025. Whether you’re a teacher, instructional coach, or tech integrator, this episode is packed with transformative features and real classroom applications.

Featured Topic: Canva Create 2025

Key Themes and Highlights:

Canva Sheets: The Spreadsheet Reimagined

A powerful new addition to the Canva suite—Canva Sheets brings AI-infused, visually pleasing spreadsheets to the classroom.

Bulk Background Remover: Easily remove backgrounds from dozens of student photos at once.

Bulk Create with Images: Mass-produce certificates, report cards, or newsletters by integrating images directly into your sheet.

Magic AI Prompts: Skip the formulas—just describe your needs and let AI do the rest (e.g., calculating budgets, charting grades).

Magic Insights: Auto-generate graphs, summaries, or positive student comments—great for data storytelling or end-of-year celebrations.

Student Access: Available to students in districts where Canva’s Magic tools are enabled.

The All-in-One Visual Suite

Create multi-modal projects within a single file: combine slides, spreadsheets, videos, documents, and websites.

Use Case: Teachers can build unit plans with rubrics, grading sheets, lesson videos, and linked resources—all in one shareable design.

Student Application: Portfolios that blend writing, multimedia, assessments, and visual elements in a single file.

Canva Code

No coding experience needed! Generate interactive HTML-based tools like:

Flashcard games

Vocabulary matching activities

Countdown timers

Use Cases:

Do-Nows & Exit Tickets

Interactive experiences (e.g., virtual art exhibits)

Includes real-time code editing via voice or chat and seamless integration into other Canva designs.

Voiceover and Text-to-Speech Enhancements

Record true voiceovers directly in Canva—no more video workarounds.

Use AI-generated voices to read text aloud in different accents and languages (e.g., Spanish voice packs Alejandra and Sofia).

Ideal for student presentations, podcasts, and accessibility support.

AI-Powered Speaker Notes

Auto-generate speaking points from your presentation slides.

Great for prepping lessons, webinars, or class presentations on the fly.

Assignments Hub

Instantly generate quizzes from highlighted text in a lesson or document.

New classwork dashboard allows for real-time monitoring of student progress (especially for educators without an LMS like Google Classroom).

Scrollables (a.k.a. Scrollytelling)

Create animated, interactive timelines or diagrams that engage students through scroll-triggered movement and transitions.

🎯 Example: A digestive system walkthrough or a historical timeline using scroll-based animations.

Additional Features Mentioned

Superscript & Subscript support (finally!)

Rich text highlighting in Docs

Caption animations

Volume balancing for videos

Banner placement across all pages

Enhanced collaboration (up to 50 collaborators per design)

Check out this episode!

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Empowering Young Minds: AI in the Elementary Classroom - HoET260

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education, but when we think about AI in the classroom, we often picture high school or college students using it for research, coding, or content creation. But what about elementary school? Can AI be a valuable tool for our youngest learners?

In Episode 260 of House of #EdTech, I sit down with Dan Gallagher, an experienced ed tech coach, to explore how AI can be integrated into elementary education. We dive into the best tools, practical applications, and strategies to ensure AI enhances learning while keeping students safe and engaged.

Why AI Belongs in the Elementary Classroom

Many educators hesitate to introduce AI to young students, concerned about privacy, ethics, and age-appropriate usage. But as Dan explains, AI isn’t about replacing teachers—it’s about enhancing personalized learning and supporting creativity.

AI can act as a creative brainstorming partner, a writing assistant, and even a storytelling coach, helping students generate ideas and refine their work in ways that keep them engaged and excited about learning.

And the best part? When used correctly, AI doesn’t replace human interaction—it amplifies a teacher’s ability to provide personalized feedback.

Real-World AI Applications for Young Learners

So, how does this work in a real classroom setting? Dan shares some inspiring examples:

1. AI-Powered Creative Writing & Storytelling

Using AI chatbots like “Waffles” (a controlled, kid-friendly chatbot), students can interact with a virtual writing partner that helps them develop their storytelling skills. The AI can ask them engaging questions, suggest details, and even provide feedback on their writing.

Example Activity: A student writing a story about a time traveler can ask the AI for historical facts, unique setting ideas, or character inspiration. The AI generates possibilities, but the student makes all the creative decisions!

2. Visual Learning & Digital Art with AI Tools

AI-powered platforms like Canva’s text-to-image generator allow young students to turn their ideas into visual representations.

Example Activity: A class studying idioms might create posters using AI-generated images. If a student picks "It's raining cats and dogs," AI can generate an imaginative illustration, sparking discussion about figurative language.

3. Personalized Learning & AI Tutors

AI can function as a virtual tutor, adapting to each student’s needs. Platforms like Magic School AI provide instant feedback on writing assignments, while School AI can assist with generating lesson plans tailored to students’ learning levels.

Example Activity: A teacher might use AI to provide instant feedback on students’ sentence structures, guiding them to refine their writing step by step instead of waiting for the teacher to get to each student individually.

Addressing Safety & Ethical Concerns

Of course, introducing AI in elementary education requires a responsible approach. Privacy, misinformation, and ethical use are all valid concerns. Dan and I discuss some best practices to keep AI use safe and effective:

Use AI platforms with built-in content moderation (e.g., School AI, which ensures safe interactions). Set up AI usage in a controlled, “walled garden” environment where students can explore safely. Teach students critical thinking skills to evaluate AI-generated content—just because AI provides an answer doesn’t mean it’s always correct! Engage parents and school administrators by explaining how AI is being used responsibly in the classroom.

Parents, in particular, may be hesitant, so educators should communicate the benefits while addressing concerns about safety. Tools like Common Sense Media can be great resources for helping families navigate AI responsibly.

How Teachers Can Get Started with AI in Elementary Classrooms

If you’re an educator wondering how to introduce AI to younger students, here are some practical first steps:

Start with simple AI tools like Google AutoDraw, which turns students’ rough sketches into polished images. Use AI for brainstorming, not answers—help students see AI as a tool for sparking ideas, not just getting solutions. Model AI usage during lessons—demonstrate how you use AI to generate ideas or enhance lesson materials. Encourage creativity—have students work in groups to refine AI-generated content rather than taking it at face value.

Final Thoughts: AI as a Partner in Education

This episode is a reminder that AI is not just for older students or tech-savvy classrooms—it has the potential to unlock creativity, enhance engagement, and support personalized learning for young learners as well.

AI won’t replace teachers, but it can help them provide better support to more students—a true game-changer in today’s classrooms.

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Leveling Up Learning: Gamification in Education - HoET259

In this episode of House of #EdTech, I discuss the what, why, and how of gamification in education! By incorporating game design elements into your teaching, you can boost student motivation, engagement, and learning outcomes—all while making lessons more interactive and fun!

Segment 1: What is Gamification in Education?

Definition of gamification and how it differs from game-based learning

The psychology behind gamification: motivation, engagement, and dopamine

Why gamification works in both K-12 and higher education settings

Segment 2: Why Gamification Works

Teachers and schools successfully implementing gamification

How gamified learning platforms like Classcraft, Kahoot!, and Quizizz enhance the classroom experience

The impact of leaderboards, challenges, and achievements on student motivation

Segment 3: Practical Gamification Strategies for Educators

Points, Badges, and Leaderboards (PBL): Reward students for progress and effort

Quests and Challenges: Break down lessons into missions and problem-solving activities

Choice and Autonomy: Let students pick their learning paths through differentiated tasks

Storytelling & Themes: Create immersive experiences (e.g., a classroom space mission or historical adventure)

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Classcraft – Gamify classroom management

Kahoot! – Interactive quizzes

Quizizz – Fun game-based assessments

Minecraft: Education Edition – Learning through creativity

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

AI-Driven Personalized Learning: The Future of Education - HoET258

In this episode of House of #EdTech, we take a deep dive into the world of AI-driven personalized learning. From how AI adapts to individual student needs to addressing concerns about environmental impact and ethical use, we cover it all. This episode is perfect for educators, school administrators, and tech enthusiasts who want to understand the benefits, challenges, and best practices for incorporating AI into education.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

AI has incredible potential to personalize learning, making education more inclusive and engaging.

Challenges like equity, ethics, and privacy must be addressed proactively.

Educators play a crucial role in guiding students to use AI responsibly.

Companies and institutions must consider environmental sustainability in AI adoption.

Understanding AI-Driven Personalized Learning

We kick off the episode by defining what AI-driven personalized learning is and how it’s transforming education. Key points include:

AI’s ability to analyze data and tailor learning experiences for individual students.

Examples of how AI can identify gaps in knowledge, recommend learning paths, and provide targeted feedback.

The potential for AI to support students with diverse learning needs and styles.

Why educators should view AI as a partner, not a replacement, in the classroom.

Overcoming Challenges and Barriers

This segment explores the practical and ethical challenges of implementing AI in education. Topics include:

The digital divide and how to ensure equitable access to AI-powered tools.

Concerns around data privacy, security, and student information.

Addressing ethical concerns, such as avoiding biases in AI algorithms.

Strategies for administrators to support educators in adopting and integrating AI tools effectively.

Real-World Applications and Success Stories

We highlight how schools and educators are successfully using AI to enhance learning experiences:

Stories of educators leveraging AI for differentiated instruction and intervention.

How AI is being used for formative assessments, real-time feedback, and curriculum planning.

Tips for educators to experiment with AI tools in small, impactful ways.

The importance of professional development to ensure educators are confident in using AI.

Addressing Listener Questions and Concerns

In this listener-driven segment, we address two thoughtful questions from our community:

Stephanie Howell:

What is the environmental impact of using AI?

We explore whether small AI-related tasks contribute significantly to carbon footprints and discuss how companies can offset their environmental impact.

AJ Bianco:

What’s appropriate for younger students when it comes to AI?

Best practices for introducing AI tools to younger grades, including when and how to teach students to use them effectively.

Emphasizing the importance of teaching students the how and why behind AI use, not just introducing tools.

Download the Responsible Implementation Checklist

  Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

2024 House of #EdTech Smackdown - HoET257

Welcome to the House of #EdTech! In this special episode, I celebrate the 11th annual #EdTech Smackdown. Prepare for a jam-packed showcase of the best edtech tips, tools, and insights from incredible educators in our community. Let’s get into the 2024 edition!

Guest Contributions:

Noah King (Math Club Podcast): NotebookLM—a transformative tool for organizing and connecting your ideas.

Stephanie Howell: Putting Out Fires: A Framework for Solving Problems in Your Classroom or School by Kaylah Holland—an essential read for tackling challenges in education.

Matt Smith:

SchoolAI—innovative AI solutions for educators.

Adobe Podcast—audio editing made easy and professional.

Martin Byford-Rew:

Microsoft Copilot—an AI assistant integrated with Microsoft tools.

Microsoft To-Do—an intuitive task management app.

Joe: Flippity.net—turning spreadsheets into engaging activities and tools.

Nicole Naditz: Generative AI Tip—encourage students to ask 3-4 clarifying questions before starting tasks to foster deeper understanding.

Bryon Carpenter:

Adobe Express—creative projects made simple.

Microsoft Teams—collaboration at its best.

Tony Vincent: Shapegrams—engaging activities for creativity and problem-solving.

Trish Hinchman: Speaker Spotlight in Google Slides—enhance your presentations with dynamic speaker cues.

Derek Larson:

AppSmackdown.com

LastPass

Toggl Track

Timery

WaterMinder

Google Voice

Chris Nesi: Poe.com - Poe lets you ask questions, get instant answers, and have back-and-forth conversations with AI. Gives access to GPT-4, gpt-3.5-turbo, Claude from Anthropic, and more!

You can view all previous recommendations on older editions of the smackdown here.

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 9: Conclusions, Recaps, and Next Steps - HoET256

I wrap up the podcasting journey outlined in my book with a comprehensive recap of the essential steps to launch, grow, and sustain your podcast. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you refine your craft and achieve your podcasting goals.

Key Takeaways:

Recap of Podcasting Fundamentals: A summary of the critical steps covered in the book, including choosing a topic, planning, recording, editing, promotion, and monetization.

Overcoming Challenges: Troubleshooting common podcasting hurdles like technical issues and low engagement while staying motivated.

Next Steps for Growth: Practical advice on audience engagement, brand building, and continuous improvement.

Leveraging Resources: How to tap into podcasting forums, conferences, courses, and other learning opportunities to sharpen your skills and connect with the community.

Why Listen to This Episode?

Discover how to set actionable goals for your podcast, maintain momentum, and take your content to the next level. Whether your aim is growing your audience, increasing revenue, or refining your production quality, this episode provides the tools and motivation you need to keep evolving as a podcaster.

Episode Resources:

Get the Book: https://chrisnesi.com/iliketopodcast

Join the HOET Discord Community

Explore Equipment Recommendations: https://chrisnesi.com/schoolpodcast

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 8: Troubleshooting Common Podcasting Challenges - HoET255

I discuss the most common challenges podcasters face and how to troubleshoot them effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, mastering these solutions can elevate your podcasting game and ensure your show runs smoothly.

PURCHASE  "I LIKE TO PODCAST AND YOU WILL TOO!: A HOUSE OF #EDTECH GUIDE TO PODCASTING!"

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to improve poor audio quality and avoid technical hiccups.

Best practices for editing and post-production, including software tips.

Strategies for dealing with negative feedback and turning it into growth opportunities.

Tips for staying motivated and consistent with your podcasting schedule.

Key Takeaways:

For Current Podcasters:

Regularly maintain your recording equipment to prevent audio issues.

Develop a consistent workflow to save time and streamline production.

Handle listener feedback with professionalism to build trust and credibility.

For Aspiring Podcasters:

Start with basic equipment and learn essential recording techniques.

Practice editing with beginner-friendly tools before launching your podcast.

Plan your content and schedule for a smooth and successful start.

Resources Mentioned:

Editing Tools: Audacity, Descript, Adobe Audition.

Hosting Platforms: Buzzsprout, Podbean, Anchor.

Social Media Tips: Promoting your podcast on Instagram, TwiX, BlueSky, and Facebook.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL MY PODCAST RESOURCES

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 7: Growing Your Podcast Audience & Building Your Brand - HoET254

In this episode, we dive deep into strategies for growing your podcast audience and building a strong brand. Learn how to define your target audience, create engaging content, and develop a cohesive brand identity that resonates with listeners. We'll explore the importance of networking, leveraging social media, and creating consistent, high-quality episodes to not only attract an audience but keep them coming back for more. Plus, discover tips to monetize your growing platform and turn your podcast into a sustainable success.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The benefits of having a successful podcast, including increased exposure, revenue opportunities, and community building.

How to identify your target audience through market research, niche selection, and engagement analysis.

Steps to develop a compelling and consistent podcast brand, from visuals to audience interaction.

Tips for producing high-quality, engaging episodes that keep your audience coming back for more.

Effective promotion strategies, including social media, collaborations, SEO, and paid advertising.

How to leverage your growing audience to monetize your podcast and establish influence in your niche.

Episode Highlights:

Target Audience Tips: Discover why understanding your audience is key to creating resonant content and effective promotion strategies.

Building a Strong Brand: Learn how to craft a professional, cohesive identity for your podcast that fosters trust and loyalty.

Marketing and Promotion Tactics: Explore ways to maximize visibility through social media, guest appearances, and email marketing.

Consistency is Key: Hear why regularly delivering engaging and well-produced episodes is crucial to your podcast’s success.

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 6: Monetizing Your Podcast - HoET253

In today’s episode, we dive into Chapter 6 of I Like to Podcast and You Will Too!—all about monetizing your podcast. We’ll explore the essential steps for transforming your passion project into a profitable venture. From traditional advertising and sponsorships to innovative methods like selling merchandise and offering consulting services, we cover the top strategies to help you decide what works best for you. Plus, we discuss the vital role of building a loyal audience and delivering high-quality content to maximize income potential and keep listeners engaged. Whether you’re podcasting for fun or aiming to build a sustainable income, these insights will guide you on the path to podcasting success.

Episode Highlights:

Do You Need to Monetize Your Podcast?

Monetization isn’t essential for every podcaster, but if your goals include generating income or promoting a business, it’s worth considering. For some, monetization is a natural progression that can fund growth and increase quality, while for others, podcasting might simply be a creative outlet.

Why Monetize Your Podcast?

Monetizing allows you to make a living, support your content creation, and enhance the quality of your episodes. Plus, a revenue stream can give you the resources to invest back into your podcast.

Top Strategies for Podcast Monetization:

Advertising & Sponsorships: Partner with advertisers or find sponsors who align with your audience’s interests.

Crowdfunding: Platforms like Patreon let listeners contribute financially in exchange for exclusive perks.

Merchandise Sales: Capitalize on a loyal audience by offering branded merchandise.

Courses & Workshops: Leverage expertise by offering paid educational content.

Consulting & Coaching: Use your podcasting experience to guide others on their journeys.

Setting Up a Payment System:

Selecting the right payment processor is key. Platforms like PayPal, Stripe, and Patreon can facilitate transactions and help you streamline support options for your listeners.

Building a Loyal Audience:

High-quality content, consistent engagement, exclusive perks, and regular episode schedules can help you build and maintain a dedicated audience, ensuring long-term support and increasing revenue potential.

Profiting Beyond Money:

Even if you don’t monetize directly, podcasting can still boost your brand, expand your network, and provide personal growth opportunities. Consider how podcasting may enhance your overall professional and personal journey.

Key Takeaways: Monetizing a podcast can offer more than just financial benefits; it can open doors to new opportunities and enhance your personal brand. Start by considering your goals, experiment with strategies, and focus on audience-building for sustainable success.

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 5: Hosting, Promoting, and Distributing Your Podcast - HoET252

Welcome to House of #EdTech! Today, we're diving into Chapter 5 from my book I Like to Podcast and You Will Too!: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting. This chapter is all about what comes after you hit record – hosting, promoting, and distributing your podcast to ensure it reaches as many ears as possible. We'll cover essential strategies to help you expand your audience and engage listeners effectively.

Key Takeaways:

1. What is a Podcast Media Host?

A media host stores and distributes your podcast's audio files, allowing listeners to access episodes through platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Choose a media host that fits your needs, offering options such as analytics, website hosting, and RSS feed management. Popular hosting platforms include:

Spotify for Podcasters, Blubrry, Buzzsprout, Captivate, Castos, Libsyn (promo code NESI), Podbean, Simplecast, Spreaker, and Transistor.

Research hosting options carefully to find a plan that best suits your podcast's goals and budget.

2. Submitting to Directories

Get your podcast listed on major directories, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, so it can be discovered by a wider audience. Submission involves creating an account, entering your podcast’s RSS feed URL, and waiting for verification.

Once your podcast is approved, these platforms offer features such as subscriber stats, reviews, and categorization options to improve your show’s visibility.

3. Social Media Promotion Strategies

Share Regular Updates: Consistently promote new episodes on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and questions.

Collaborate for Growth: Partner with other podcasters or influencers in your niche to reach new listeners and build credibility.

Platform-Specific Tips:

Twitter/X: Post real-time updates, engage in conversations, and use trending hashtags.

Threads: Instagram's answer to the decline of Twitter/X

Instagram: Share behind-the-scenes content and episode snippets. Stories can showcase your creative process.

Facebook: Leverage groups and pages to engage with targeted audiences.

LinkedIn: Share articles or insights on topics related to your podcast to connect with a professional audience.

Consider Paid Advertising: Facebook and Instagram ads can effectively broaden your reach, especially when targeted toward specific interests or demographics.

4. Building an Email List

An email list allows you to maintain a direct line to your audience, even when they’re not actively listening. Send out episode announcements, exclusive offers, or bonus content to keep your listeners engaged.

Incentivize sign-ups by offering exclusive content, early episode releases, or other perks. Check out services like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or HubSpot to get started with list management.

Feedback:

Martin Byford-Rew has launched the #EdTech Stuff Podcast! He shared a voicemail with me about a recording he did that didn't turn out great and what he did. Check out his podcast!

  Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 4: Recording and Editing Your Podcast - HoET251

In this episode, we're diving into the essentials of recording and editing a podcast -- Chapter 4 of my book --to help you produce high-quality episodes that captivate your audience. Whether you're new to podcasting or looking to refine your skills, we’ll cover everything from selecting the right equipment to key editing techniques that ensure professional results.

Key Topics Covered:

Recording Your Podcast:

Essential Equipment: Learn about the importance of investing in a good microphone, pop filter, and headphones to achieve crystal-clear audio. We’ll guide you through the best choices for both budget and professional setups.

Choosing the Right Recording Space: Tips for finding a quiet, distraction-free environment, and how to test your recording setup to minimize background noise.

Monitoring While Recording: Discover why wearing headphones during recording is crucial for consistency and how to catch mistakes in real-time.

Taking Breaks and Re-recording: The value of pausing and redoing sections to ensure your final product is flawless.

Editing Your Podcast:

Basic Editing Techniques: Master key editing processes like trimming unwanted sections, splitting audio tracks, fading transitions, and using normalization and compression to balance your audio.

Advanced Tools: Learn about equalization for refining sound quality and how these techniques can make your podcast more pleasant for listeners.

Software Recommendations: Explore free and paid options for editing software that are accessible and effective.

Adding Music and Sound Effects:

Choosing Music Wisely: How to select music that fits your podcast’s style and tone, and avoid letting it overshadow your content.

Podsafe Music: Understanding the importance of using royalty-free or Creative Commons-licensed music and how to find safe audio sources like Free Music Archive and Incompetech.

Do’s and Don’ts for Music Integration: Ensure that your music enhances your content rather than distracts from it.

Check out my podcasting resources here.

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 3: Planning and Preparing for Your Podcast - HoET250

In this milestone episode, we dive into Chapter 3 of my book, which focuses on the essential steps for planning and preparing your podcast. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your existing show, this episode provides actionable tips to help you build a strong foundation for success.

Key Points:

The Importance of a Content Plan and Schedule

A content plan helps organize ideas and ensure your podcast maintains a smooth flow.

A schedule helps you stay consistent, keep your audience engaged, and track your progress.

Goals are easier to set and monitor when you plan your episodes in advance.

Pick up a copy of the Pod Journal

Creating a Consistent and Engaging Flow

Start each episode with a hook to capture attention.

Follow a structure: overview, main segments, and closing call-to-action.

Use storytelling techniques and vary content to keep things fresh while maintaining a central theme.

Naming and Branding Your Podcast

Your podcast name should be memorable, unique, and reflective of the content.

Branding includes developing a visual identity (logo/artwork) and defining a consistent tone.

Ensure consistency across platforms, from your website to social media, to establish a professional image.

Setting Up Recording Equipment and Software

Essentials include a quality microphone, an audio interface (if needed), recording software (like Audacity or Adobe Audition), and headphones.

Check out ALL the podcast gear I recommend!

Choose a quiet recording space and adjust your settings for the best sound quality.

Action Steps:

Develop a Content Plan

Map out your first 5-10 episodes with topic ideas and target release dates.

Set a Consistent Schedule

Decide how frequently you’ll release episodes (e.g., weekly, biweekly) and stick to it.

Choose a Podcast Name

Brainstorm names that reflect your show's content and check availability across social media platforms and podcast directories.

Create Your Brand

Design a logo, select a color scheme, and define your podcast’s tone. Ensure consistency across all materials.

Set Up Your Equipment

Invest in a microphone and headphones, choose your recording software, and test your setup before recording.

By the end of this episode, you'll have the tools and knowledge to create a well-structured, engaging podcast that stands out.

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 2: Choosing a Topic and Format for Your Podcast - HoET249

In this episode, I share the crucial first steps of starting a podcast: choosing a topic and format. Drawing from Chapter 2 of my book, I share the importance of understanding your target audience and selecting a niche that resonates with them.

Key Points Covered:

Identifying Your Target Audience:

Define the purpose and content of your podcast to attract the right listeners.

Analyze demographic factors (age, gender, location) and psychographics (interests, values) to develop a clearer audience profile.

Use competitor analysis to gather insights on what engages listeners in your niche.

Create listener personas to visualize your audience's needs and interests.

Finding Your Niche:

Balance specificity with broad appeal to make your topic interesting and relevant.

Research current trends and identify gaps in the market that your podcast could fill.

Select a topic you are passionate about and knowledgeable in, ensuring an authentic and engaging experience.

Exploring Podcast Types:

We highlight various podcast genres, including Interview, News and Politics, True Crime, Education, Storytelling, Health and Wellness, and Comedy, each catering to different audience interests.

Choosing Your Format:

Align your podcast format with your content and strengths, considering audience expectations and available resources.

Experiment with different formats to see what works best for you and your audience.

Maintain consistency to build listener loyalty.

Developing Your Hook:

Focus on a unique angle or niche within your topic to stand out in a crowded market.

Consider innovative perspectives, storytelling elements, or interactive features to engage your audience.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to effectively choose a topic and format that resonate with your audience, setting you on the path to creating an engaging podcast.

Resources Mentioned:

WTF with Marc Maron

Fresh Air

The Daily

Serial

Stuff You Should Know

TED Talks Daily

The Happiness Lab

Sleepy

Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend

The Education Podcast Network

If you're considering starting your own podcast or just want to understand how podcasting works, this series of episodes and my book are your go-to resource.

Click here to purchase "I Like To Podcast and You Will Too!: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting"

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Chapter 1: Introduction to Podcasting - HoET248

In this episode of House of #EdTech, I share my book, "I Like to Podcast and You Will Too!" starting with Chapter 1, "Introduction to Podcasting," to give you an essential primer on podcasting and why it's such an impactful medium.

What You’ll Learn:

What is a Podcast? – Discover the basics of podcasting, from its definition to how it's consumed. Learn about the versatility of podcasts and why this digital medium has become so popular.

The History of Podcasting – I take you on a journey through the origins of podcasting, from the early 2000s development of RSS feeds by Dave Winer and Adam Curry to the rise of major platforms like Apple Podcasts and breakout shows like Serial.

Benefits of Hosting a Podcast – Whether you want to establish authority, build a personal brand, or simply share your passions with the world, podcasting offers numerous personal and professional benefits. I’ll explain how hosting a podcast can improve your communication skills, expand your network, and even provide monetization opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

Establishing Authority: Hosting a podcast in your field can position you as an expert, building credibility and attracting a loyal audience.

Flexibility and Creativity: From format to production, podcasting is a medium that allows for great creative freedom, providing endless opportunities to express your unique voice.

Monetization Potential: While building a large audience takes time, sponsorships, crowdfunding, and selling products or services can offer lucrative rewards.

If you're considering starting your own podcast or just want to understand how podcasting works, this series of episodes and my book are your go-to resource.

Click here to purchase "I Like To Podcast and You Will Too!: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting"

  Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

House of #EdTech Reset - HoET247

In episode 247 of House of #EdTech, I explore the evolving role of generative AI in education. Following a reflective conversation with Tom Mullaney on episode 246, I discuss the opportunities and challenges of AI in the classroom, emphasizing the need for thoughtful integration. I also introduce new edtech recommendations and share some exciting changes coming to the podcast.

Full show notes: https://chrisnesi.com/247

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

The Harms of Generative AI with Tom Mullaney - HoET246

Welcome back to another insightful episode of House of #EdTech! In Episode 246, we dive deep into the potential harms of generative AI with the knowledgeable Tom Mullaney. This episode promises to shed light on the complexities and ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in education.

#EdTech Thought

Khan Academy and Microsoft Partnership: A Game-Changer for Education

Khan Academy and Microsoft have recently partnered to revolutionize education with advanced AI tools. Here are the key highlights of this significant collaboration:

Khanmigo for Teachers: Microsoft's donation of Azure AI infrastructure supports this AI-powered teaching assistant. It aims to save teachers time by aiding in lesson planning and personalizing education for students.

Enhanced AI Tutoring: The partnership focuses on developing new small language models to improve AI tutoring capabilities, especially in math, making learning more efficient and tailored to individual needs.

Integration with Microsoft Platforms: Khan Academy’s resources will become more accessible through Microsoft’s platforms such as Copilot and Teams for Education, expanding the reach and impact of these educational tools.

Focus on Engagement: By making lesson plans more engaging, these tools aim to keep students interested and motivated in their learning journey.

This initiative underscores a significant step towards leveraging AI to support educators and enhance student learning experiences, particularly in K-12 education. For a deeper dive into the details, you can read the full article here.

Featured Content: Interview with Tom Mullaney

Tom Mullaney brings a wealth of experience from his background in Special Education and Instructional Design to help teachers create inclusive and engaging lessons. He has spoken at national conferences like SXSW EDU, the National Council for the Social Studies, and ISTE. Tom shares his educational technology insights on his YouTube channel and SubStack.

In our conversation, we cover several topics:

Ethical Concerns and Pedagogical Impact

The Eliza Effect in Classroom Dynamics

Addressing and Overcoming AI Biases

Promoting Critical Thinking Through AI Integration

Future of AI and Teacher Preparedness

Resources:

Week of AI - Harms of AI: What the Hype Doesn't Tell You

Emily Bender

Timnit Gebru

Margaret Mitchell

Joy Buolamwini

Gary Marcus

Check out this episode!

[houseofedtech]

Become a Ruthless #EdTech Evaluator - HoET245

In this episode of House of #EdTech, host Chris Nesi discusses the importance of critically evaluating educational technology in classrooms. He shares insights from Jessica Grose's NYT article about ensuring tech tools serve educational purposes and protect student privacy. The episode features the announcement of MagicSchool.ai as the 2024 HOET Final Four Winner and an EdTech recommendation for Vocabulary Quest, a gamified vocabulary learning platform. Additionally, Chris bids farewell to SatChat, reflecting on its impact on the education community.

Resources Mentioned:

MagicSchool.ai - 2024 HOET Final Four Winner

Vocabulary Quest - EdTech Recommendation

Every Tech Tool in the Classroom Should Be Ruthlessly Evaluated - Article by Jessica Grose

SatChat - Discussion on SatChat ending

2024 HOET Final Four Winner: MagicSchool.ai

We're excited to announce MagicSchool.ai as the 2024 HOET Final Four Winner! MagicSchool.ai stands out for its innovative approach to personalized learning and real-time performance assessment. This AI-based tool is transforming how students engage with educational content, making learning more interactive and effective. Congratulations to MagicSchool.ai for this well-deserved recognition.

EdTech Thought: The End of an Era? Goodbye SatChat

We begin with a reflective EdTech Thought segment, marking the end of an era with the conclusion of SatChat. For years, SatChat has been a cornerstone of the education community, providing a platform for educators to connect, share insights, and grow together. Hosts Billy Krakower, Scott Rocco, and Brad Currie have created a lasting legacy, and we take a moment to honor their contributions and discuss the future of such initiatives in the education space.

EdTech Recommendation: Vocabulary Quest

Our EdTech Recommendation for this episode is Vocabulary Quest, an innovative platform that gamifies vocabulary learning. Whether you're a student, professional, or language enthusiast, Vocabulary Quest transforms the often tedious task of memorizing new words into an engaging adventure. With gamified levels, interactive stories, puzzles, and personalized learning paths, this tool not only makes learning fun but also significantly boosts retention rates.

Here's why Vocabulary Quest stands out:

Gamified Learning: Turn vocabulary acquisition into an exciting game with progressive challenges.

Personalized Stories and Puzzles: Engage with content tailored to your interests, enhancing learning efficiency.

Advanced AI Memory Aids: Benefit from mnemonic devices, imagery, and associations designed to make words stick.

Comprehensive Exam Preparation: Ideal for students preparing for exams like the SAT, ACT, or SSAT.

Professional Communication: Elevate your career by mastering the right words for effective communication.

Featured Content: Ruthlessly Evaluating EdTech Tools

In our featured content, we dive into Jessica Grose's compelling article, "Every Tech Tool in the Classroom Should Be Ruthlessly Evaluated," published in The New York Times on April 24, 2024. Grose highlights the complex and often problematic landscape of educational technology, urging educators to take control of tech integration in their classrooms. Key takeaways from the article include:

Educator-Driven Tech Use: Technology should be selected based on data and teacher experience, not dictated by tech companies.

Commercial Origins of EdTech: Many tools were initially created for commercial purposes, which may not align with educational outcomes.

Necessity and Good Standard: Schools should assess whether a tech tool is essential and beneficial from ethical and pedagogical perspectives.

Privacy Concerns: Protecting student data is paramount. Solutions include destroying data after use and establishing an independent body to oversee digital product quality.

Centralized Tech-Vetting: Post-pandemic, there is a need for standardized evaluation of tech tools at the district level.

Classroom-Level Audits: Regularly audit tech tools to ensure they serve their intended purpose without creating additional problems.

Authentic Connections: Beyond academics, technology should foster human relationships and community building in schools.

Check out this episode!