A new experience leads to a reflective "aha" moment about student perspective.

Bridges, Brains, & Beats podcast

Episode 10- Audio Blog- "How I Gained a Student's Perspective Through Knitting"

Our final days in Chicago give time for reflection and time to reenergize. Thinking about the growth mindset characteristic of flexibility, trying out a new kind of latte, and being stumped by a seemingly random gathering of people. 

Episode 9- Audio Blog- "West Loop Wonderings" - Chicago Pt. 3

A trip to Chicago opened our eyes to all the ways that the arts are on display and celebrated.  From the subtleties of the city to the concrete examples in the museums, art abounds in Chicago. Hear about the second part of our trip here!

Episode 8 - Audio Blog- "Another Slice of Chicago's Artistic Pie"- Chicago Pt. 2

A trip to Chicago opened our eyes to all the ways that the arts are on display and celebrated.  From the subtleties of the city to the concrete examples in the museums, art abounds in Chicago. Hear about the first part of our trip here!

Episode 7- Audio Blog- "An Artful Experience in the Second City"- Chicago Pt. 1

First interview of the podcast! Listen in as I ask a Nationally Board Certified (NBCT) middle school special education teacher, (who has spent two decades in the classroom) about her experience in Finland (she was on my trip!), her observations of our U.S. education over the past 20 years, and how her school year has been since returning from Finland!  BONUS: We end with two questions that are ALWAYS on my mind! 

Episode 6- Chicago Teacher Interview with Camille Baum- NBCT Middle School Special Education Teacher

Collaborative versus competitive schools, more observations on our second comprehensive school tour and reflections on "What Now?" with my Finland trip complete.

Episode 5- Audio Blog- Finland- Days 5 & 6 "Finland Finale Leads to Brainstorming Beginnings"

An eye-opening tour of a comprehensive 1st-9th-grade Finnish school. A United States teacher's reflection on the blend of traditional and innovative curriculum witnessed on the tour.

Episode 4- Audio Blog- Finland- Day 4 "Modernity in Antiquity"

The day that I have been anticipating... the early childhood education center tour! A glimpse into the early childhood education practices and goals of the Finnish school system.

Episode 3- Audio Blog- Finland- Day 3 "Simplicity, Play, & Learning in a Child-centered Way"

Reflections from my second day as a United States teacher visiting a Finnish vocational school and learning about the history and progression of the Finnish school system, overall.

Episode 2- Audio Blog- Finland- Day 2 "Finland 101: Learning Through Experience"

First Bridges, Beats, & Brains episode. A glimpse into my time in Finland. The first day brought a wide range of emotions and revelations. Did I make a mistake coming all the way to Finland?

Bridges, Beats, & Brains: Episode 1- Audio Blog- Finland- Day 1 "Solo and So Not Fluent"

Exploration of education, travel, music, and ways they intertwine in a global learning community.