The DIESOL Podcast | EdTech in ESL

Like a zombie infection, AI is showing up everywhere across every aspect of our lives. How do we know when to use it and when to run like hell? We're discussing 13 Scary Things to Avoid in AI on this Halloween episode of the DIESOL Podcast! Show Notes: https://www.DIESOL.org/144 

How do we deal with Artificial Intelligence, expertise, and pedagogy in English Language Teaching? We're looking for the answers in this interview with Joshua Paiz, author of Collaborative AI on this episode of the DIESOL podcast! Show Notes: https://diesol.org/episode/episode-143-collaborative-ai-with-joshua-paiz/ 

If you're searching for an easy way for you or your students to make videos, Google Vids or Clipchamp may be the solution you've been looking for. Both platforms have their own approaches to making videos you can use for lectures, tutorials, presentations, and more. Check it out as Brent & Ixchell break down how to use them, an overview of the main features, and why you might choose one over the other. Show notes: https://DIESOL.org/142 

Ever heard the term "vibecoding" and immediately assumed it wasn't for language teachers? Think again! In this episode of the DIESOL Podcast, Brent and Ixchell break down what vibecoding actually is, why it's less about computer science and more about clear communication, and how adult ESL educators can leverage it to create customized learning tools without knowing a thing about "coding". Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/141 

While we frequently focus on digital tools and EdTech, what about the physical items in your room that impact your students' focus, energy, and overall mood? In this episode, Brent and Ixchell get physical and discuss how to build a tangible "classroom kit" that can lower the affective filter and set your students up for success. Show Notes and Transcript: https://diesol.org/episode/episode-140-whats-in-the-box-building-a-classroom-kit/

How do we help students build genuine writing skills when AI tools can easily do the work for them? In this episode, Brent & Ixchell share practical strategies, low-tech solutions, and clever ways to use AI as a scaffold rather than a shortcut, ensuring students still do the hard work of learning. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/139 

How can you explore new ideas while still taking time to unwind from the school year? In this episode, Ixchell & Brent share practical tools, creative pedagogy, and accessible resources to keep your innovative juices flowing without leading to summer burnout. Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/138

Brent Warner and Ixchell Reyes are joined by internationally recognized consultant and former teacher, Sara Davila, to explore how creative thinking strategies can boost productive fluency in language learners. From practical techniques like the Idea Box and reverse brainstorming to the role of AI as a creative partner, Sara shares actionable ideas teachers can use right away, whether low-tech or no-tech environment. If you've ever wondered how to move students from knowing English to actually using it with confidence, this episode is for you! Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/137 

In today's episode, we're tackling a common challenge. Your students want to build their vocabulary, but your class isn't really focused on vocabulary learning. So what can you do? We're looking at simple, practical ways to weave vocabulary into any lesson, without needing to redesign your whole curriculum. From choosing the right words to helping students actually use them in real contexts, we'll share ideas you can start using right away. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/136  YouTube: www.YouTube.com/@DIESOLpod 

We're seeing many reports of schools banning the use of mobile devices during school hours. There are multiple articles sharing the impact that the use of mobile devices has on student academic achievement scores. Is the backlash against classroom tech justified, or are we missing something important? In this episode, Brent and Ixchell dig into the growing global movement to ban phones and devices from schools, and discuss ways for more thoughtful approach to EdTech without compromising student achievement. Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/135