Why is Adolescence a Powerful Time for Growth, Agency, and Mattering? | Ronald Dahl

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Ronald Dahl, a distinguished pediatrician and developmental scientist from UC Berkeley, to explore the transformative potential of adolescence. Together, they discuss why adolescence is not just a period of vulnerability but also a dynamic window of opportunity for learning, growth, and authentic contribution. Dr. Dahl highlights the importance of fostering agency, mattering, and experiential learning environments that allow young people to feel valued and empowered. From the neuroscience of brain plasticity to the actionable steps educators and leaders can take to create supportive systems, this conversation dives deep into how we can rethink adolescent development and learning. Tune in for insights on building authentic connections, navigating challenges, and creating spaces where young people can thrive and make meaningful contributions. Outline (06:53) The Science of Adolescent Development (13:19) The Importance of Mattering and Contribution (19:48) Agency, Autonomy, and the Adolescent Experience (26:02) Technology, Learning, and Agency in Youth (33:09) Work, Civic Engagement, and Experiential Learning (39:31) Wisdom, Policy, and Closing Reflections Links Read the full blog here LinkedIn UC Berkeley  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Jon Alfuth and Julianna Charles Brown from KnowledgeWorks to explore the "how" behind transforming education systems. The conversation dives deep into the importance of state policy frameworks, personalized learning, and competency-based education to create future-ready systems. They discuss the role of a shared vision, like a Portrait of a Graduate, in driving systemic change and aligning policy with practice. With examples from states like Montana and Washington, this episode highlights how flexible learning pathways and transferable skills can prepare students for an uncertain future. Tune in to learn about the intersection of policy, practice, and innovation, and discover how systems can be reimagined to better serve learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Vision for Education (13:16) Policy Framework Overview (19:32) Implementing Policy Changes (26:06) Flexible Learning Pathways (32:33) State Examples and Success Stories (35:04) Lightning Round Q&A Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn | Jon Alfuth LinkedIn | Charlie Brown Jon Alfuth | KnowldegeWorks Charlie Brown | KnowledgeWorks KowledgeWorks  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jeanine Collins, co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of the Center for the Future of Learning joins to share how Nevada is transforming its education system through bold partnerships, learner-centered design, and the arts. This episode dives into her journey from classroom teaching to leading statewide initiatives that redefine success for students through the Portrait of a Learner. Jeanine discusses the power of arts in education, how intermediary organizations can bridge policy and practice, and the importance of building collective action to drive systemic change. Tune in to explore how Nevada is fostering meaningful, interactive learning experiences that empower students to thrive in their communities and beyond. Outline (00:00) Early Career and Education (04:14) Transition to Education Policy (06:54) Founding the Center for the Future of Learning (12:22) Youth Engagement and Innovation (14:53) Values-Driven Leadership (20:08) Building Networks and Future Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Nevada Portrait of a Learner Jeanine Collins Linkedin Previous podcast with Jeanine on Nevada Succeeds Center for the Future of Learning  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Tony Wagner and Dr. Ulrik Christensen to dive into their new book, Mastery: Why Deeper Learning is Essential in the Age of Distraction. Together, they unpack the concept of mastery learning, why it matters in today's rapidly changing world, and how it connects to deeper learning and student agency. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to education, real-world examples from schools like Red Bridge and Olin College, and the critical need to foster intrinsic motivation and lifelong learning skills. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or passionate about the future of learning, this is a must-listen episode! Outline (00:00) Introduction to Mastery Learning (11:10) The Changing Nature of Work and Learning (16:33) Assessment and Curriculum Changes (21:27) Early Education and Student Agency (26:58) Team-Based Learning and Real-World Applications (31:54) Scaling and Implementation Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here Ulrik Christensen LinkedIn Tony Wagner LinkedIn Podcast: Virginia Superintendent James Lane on Unleashing Innovation How to Prepare Learners for an Uncertain Future: A Conversation with Dr. Tony Wagner Book Review: Creating Innovators  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen sits down with Matt Bowman, co-founder of Open Ed, to explore how unbundled learning and personalized education are transforming the future of learning. They discuss Open Ed's innovative approach to blending public and private education systems, the role of competency-based learning, and how families can become education designers for their children. The conversation also dives into the impact of AI on education and how it's driving demand for flexible, learner-centered ecosystems. Whether you're a parent, educator, or policymaker, this episode offers actionable insights into creating personalized pathways for every learner. Outline (00:00) Rethinking the System (03:39) Creative Learning Experiences (13:57) Open Ed's Model (20:36) Accountability and Competency (27:07) Who Is Open Ed For? (33:41) The Future: AI, Community, and Connection Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Matt Bowman's Books OpenEd  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Dr. Isaac Agbeshie-Noye, Program Director for Widening Pathways at the SHRM Foundation. They discuss the concept of a skills-first future and how it can unlock potential and economic mobility through inclusive hiring practices. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning skills with workforce needs, the role of AI in shaping employment, and the value of collaboration between employers, schools, and training providers. Tune in to learn about the strategies and tools driving a more equitable and skills-focused workforce. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Skills First Future (05:36) Understanding the Skills First Approach (09:59) Barriers to Skills-Based Hiring (14:38) Digital Infrastructure and Ecosystem Solutions (19:27) Impact of AI on the Future of Work (27:46) Next Steps and Future Initiatives Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn SHRM Skills First Future

In this episode of Catching Up, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into the latest innovations shaping the future of learning. From Alpha School's groundbreaking two-hour AI-driven learning model to the rise of ambient AI that integrates seamlessly into our everyday lives, this conversation explores the intersection of technology, education, and human connection. They also reflect on the importance of relational intelligence in schools, the role of real-world learning during the remaining six hours of a student's day, and the growing significance of personalized and competency-based education. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and actionable ideas to reimagine education for a future-ready world. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview (05:46) Discussion on AI Companionship and Connection (11:38) Updates on Educational Initiatives (17:25) Alpha School and Two-Hour Learning Day (29:44) Ambient AI and Learning Assessment (35:30) Day in the Life of an Educator 2040 (42:51) Uniquely Human Experiences and Closing (48:12) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here What happens when AI chatbots replace real human connection? American Friendship Project Boosties Tylenol, Autism and the Perils of Basic-Level Literacy 7 insights about Chronic Absenteeism Transcend: The Relationship Between Student Experiences and Outcomes COVID Worsened Long Decline in 12th-Graders' Reading, Math Skills A Day in the Life of an Educator 2040 USC Rossier Master of Education  

In this podcast episode, leaders Virgel Hammonds and Beth Rabbitt discuss how FullScale is accelerating competency-based and personalized learning by aligning practice, policy, people, and progress. By adopting a Co-CEO leadership model, they emphasize the power of collaboration, distributed leadership, and bold accountability to drive systemic change. This episode dives into the importance of coherence across education systems and the role of Full Scale in creating tools, evidence, and partnerships to empower learners and educators. Tune in to explore how this unification aims to reimagine education at scale! Outline (00:00) Introduction and Personal Interests (04:32) The Vision Behind the Merger (08:37) Full Scale's Ambitious Goals (11:52) Co-CEO Leadership Model (20:09) Accelerating Growth in Competency-Based Learning (25:22) The Future of the Annual Symposium (34:13) Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Beth Rabbitt LinkedIn Virgel Hammonds LinkedIn FullScale FullScale Symposium

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia sits down with David McCullough III, co-founder of the American Exchange Project, to explore how domestic student exchanges can foster empathy, bridge cultural divides, and build lifelong curiosity. Learn how this innovative program connects high school students across the U.S., encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new perspectives, and contribute to their communities. Tune in to hear about the transformative power of travel, the origins of the program, and its vision for creating a more united and empathetic future Outline (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:31) Origins of the American Exchange Project (08:35) History of Exchange Programs (16:41) Current State of American Exchange Project (21:58) Program Structure and Activities (34:12) Future Growth and Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here American Exchange Project LinkedIn

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Dr. Bill Nicely, Educator in Residence at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, to explore how cross-state, cross-sector collaboration in Kansas City is transforming education. They discuss the Real World Learning Initiative, the importance of market value assets for students, and how partnerships between urban, suburban, and rural districts are creating equitable opportunities. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach is preparing students for the future of work and fostering systemic change in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (03:39) Collaboration During the Pandemic (07:12) Challenges and Successes in Cross-State Collaboration (11:38) The Role of Business Partnerships (18:54) Measuring Success and Quality (25:44) Future Trends in Education Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation