The Great Teachers Movement Podcast

Episode 3 Beyond the Classroom: Insights from a Great Teachers Veteran with Sherry Woitte

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.
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Episode 2 Engaging Students through Relational Teaching and AI Integration with John Haney

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.
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Episode 1 Cultivating Mindfulness in the Classroom with Elaine Cruse

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.
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Introduction to the Great Teachers Movement Podcast

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.
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