The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker

Technology has the potential to connect students, foster collaboration, and support richer learning experiences, but those benefits exist alongside real concerns about AI, screen time, and the role technology should play in schools. In this episode of The Balance, I talk with educator and Scriblit f…

How can teachers help students become more strategic, confident, and independent readers? In this deep dive episode, Dr. Catlin Tucker explores reciprocal teaching, a guided, inclusive strategy that engages students in collaboratively making meaning from texts through four comprehension lenses: summ…

In August 2026, MIT released a report examining how generative AI is affecting teaching, learning, assessment, and the human relationships at the heart of education. In this deep dive, I explore why the report carries particular significance coming from an institution so closely associated with tech…

In this Ask Catlin episode, I respond to three questions educators have recently shared with me on social media about active processing, note-taking, and the Station Rotation Model. I explore how teachers can build meaningful processing opportunities into whole-group instruction without creating ela…

In this episode, I chat with Gerardo Martinez, Executive Director of Educational Technology for Westminster School District, about what educators can learn from the field of architecture when designing meaningful learning experiences. Gerardo shares how his journey from architecture to education sha…

Student-led learning doesn’t happen simply because we give students more control. Students need to be intentionally onboarded to the roles, routines, and skills that allow them to lead their learning successfully. In this episode of The Balance, I break down a practical process for onboarding studen…

Ask Catlin is back! In this monthly Q&A series, I answer questions I've been getting from teachers through my website and social media, sharing practical, research-informed strategies you can put into practice right away. Over the last few weeks, teachers have been asking thoughtful questions about …

As you prepare for a new school year, it's easy to focus on lesson plans, supplies, and classroom décor. But before students experience your instruction, they experience the environment you've created. In this episode, I explore how thoughtful classroom design can reduce friction, support student in…

AI isn't just changing the tools people use at work; it's reshaping the tasks, decisions, and skills required across nearly every industry. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Cameron Sublett, co-author of Applied Co-Intelligence: Preparing Career and Technical Education Learners for an AI-Driven Workf…

A new school year offers more than a fresh classroom and a new group of students; it offers a fresh start for us as educators. In this episode, I share the reflection routines and goal-setting strategies I use to learn from the previous year before jumping into planning. We'll explore simple ways to…

Can kindergarten, first grade, and second grade students really thrive in student-centered learning environments? In this episode, I explore how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the Station Rotation model can help teachers proactively design learning experiences that support learner variabili…

Ask Catlin is back! In response to the thoughtful questions I've been getting through my website and on social media, I'm bringing back this monthly Q&A series to tackle real classroom challenges with practical strategies you can use right away. In this episode, I answer three of the most common que…

In this episode, I chat with Jay McTighe about Stage 3 of Understanding by Design and what it really means to create learning experiences that move beyond content coverage toward understanding and transfer. We unpack the different types of learning goals related to acquisition, understanding, and tr…

In this episode, I explore how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can help us strengthen Tier 1 instruction and redesign whole-group lessons to work for more learners. Using a simple Hook → Chunk → Pause → Process framework, I connect UDL, MTSS, and cognitive science to share practical strategies f…

In this episode, I explore the jigsaw strategy, a powerful cooperative learning structure that positions students as active participants in the learning process. I break down why the strategy is so effective for increasing engagement, deepening understanding, and helping students develop communicati…

In this episode, I chat with Matt Miller about his new book, AI Literacy in Any Class, and what it means to prepare students for a future shaped by artificial intelligence. We explore practical ways teachers can integrate AI literacy into everyday lessons without losing focus on meaningful learning,…

In this episode, I explore how a simple 360 feedback protocol can increase accountability and reflection during collaborative learning experiences. Inspired by feedback systems used in corporate settings, this strategy gives students structured opportunities to assess their own contributions and pro…

In this episode of The Balance, I unpack a classroom trend I’ve been noticing across middle and high school classrooms: teachers using what they call “guided notes” that are actually closer to cloze notes. I explore the difference between guided notes, cloze notes, and completed notes, and why those…

In this episode, Robert Mayfield and I continue our conversation about deep work in education by exploring specific AI tools that can help teachers reclaim time and focus on more meaningful instructional work. We discuss how AI can streamline tasks like creating slide decks, writing student-facing d…

In this episode, I chat with Robert Mayfield about a growing tension in education: teachers aren’t necessarily resistant to AI, they’re resistant to more fragmentation. We explore how the structure of teaching leaves little room for the deep thinking required to design meaningful learning experience…

In this episode, I unpack the instructional shifts that make Tier 2 more targeted, responsive, and effective. Too often, Tier 2 turns into a smaller version of whole-group instruction, repeating the same explanations and tasks that didn’t work the first time. I walk through what needs to change, fro…

In this episode, I take a closer look at the growing conversation around technology in education. With rising concerns about screen time, student attention, and mental health, many schools are starting to question their use of devices. But what does the research actually say? I unpack key insights f…

In this episode, I reflect on a recent keynote I delivered in Singapore, exploring the shared challenges impacting teacher and student engagement. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, I unpack the three psychological needs that drive motivation—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—and explain how …

In this episode, I tackle one of the most common questions teachers ask when using the station rotation model: What do you do with students who finish early? Instead of treating fast finishers as a problem, I reframe pacing differences as one of the biggest benefits of blended learning and self-pace…

In this episode, I sit down with Jay McTighe to revisit the core principles of backward design and why they matter more than ever in today’s classrooms. We unpack the ongoing tension between content coverage and deep learning, and what it really means to design for understanding and transfer. Our co…

Block schedules offer the promise of more time, but without intentional design, that time doesn’t always translate into deeper learning. In this episode, I unpack common missteps like stacking and stretching traditional lessons and why they often lead to cognitive overload, disengagement, and fatigu…

In this episode, I unpack one of the most common challenges teachers face when transitioning from linear, whole-group lessons to the station rotation model, designing for a circular flow when students don’t all start with the teacher. I introduce the Empty Station Strategy, a simple but powerful var…

In this episode, I sit down with bestselling author and educator John Spencer to talk about the power of deep learning in today’s classrooms. We discuss insights from his book The Depth Advantage and explore why meaningful, relevant work is key to engaging students and helping them sustain focus and…

In this episode, I wrap up my Skills Before Tools series by exploring how the five throughline skills work together to shift students from simply using AI to truly leading their own learning. I walk through three concrete classroom strategies, Jigsaw with NotebookLM, formative feedback cycles, and a…

In this episode, I explore the final skill in my AI implementation guide: ethical awareness and accountability. As AI becomes more integrated into our classrooms, we have to move beyond teaching students how to use the tools and focus on helping them use them responsibly. I break down what ethical a…

In this episode of The Balance, I continue the Skills Before Tools series with a focus on revision and improvement, the skill that keeps AI from replacing student thinking. I explore how iterative cycles of draft, feedback, and intentional revision strengthen motivation, reinforce growth mindset, an…

In this episode of The Balance, I chat with George Couros about his new book, Forward Together: Moving Schools from Conflict to Community in Contentious Times . We start with the origin story, why he decided to write another book. George shares how this book is structured around principles and persp…

As AI spits out confident-sounding information, students’ ability to evaluate information and exercise sound judgment matters more than ever. In this episode of The Balance, I explore why evaluation and judgment are foundational skills for responsible AI use and student-led learning. I unpack what i…

As AI becomes more common in classrooms, students’ ability to communicate clearly matters more than ever. In this episode of The Balance, I explore why clarity in communication is a foundational skill for student-led learning and responsible AI use. I unpack what clarity really means, why it goes fa…

In this episode, I unpack why questioning and purpose setting are foundational skills for student-led learning, especially in classrooms where AI is becoming more common. I explore the difference between students looking busy and students actually thinking, and why AI makes that distinction impossib…

In this episode, I introduce my Skills Before Tools: K–12 AI Implementation Guide and what we can learn from past EdTech rollouts that missed the mark. Too often, schools rush to adopt new tools without first building the skills students and teachers need to use them well, and AI raises the stakes e…

In this conversation, I chat with Peter Liljedahl to unpack the research behind Building Thinking Classrooms and what it really means to design classrooms where students think deeply. We explore the conditions that support thinking, from how tasks are introduced and timed to the surprisingly powerfu…

As the year winds down, many teachers find themselves thinking about what they want to change and why it’s been so hard to change it. In this episode, I guide listeners through a practical reflection process that helps explain why meaningful change often feels elusive, even when the desire is there.…

Transitions can make or break a station rotation, especially when time is tight and energy is high. In this episode, I respond to a teacher’s question about transitions and logistics by unpacking practical strategies for creating clear, consistent routines that students can actually manage. I share …

High-quality instructional materials are designed to strengthen Tier 1 instruction, but what happens when fidelity turns into rigidity? In this episode, I explore how HQIM can function as a strong foundation rather than a script teachers are expected to follow. I unpack when whole-group instruction …

In this episode, I chat with Suzy Evans and Dr. Shane Saeed about how learner agency, metacognition, and assessment can work together rather than be siloed or disconnected. We explored what the science of learning tells us about helping students take more ownership of their thinking and how teachers…

In this episode, I dig into one of the most common challenges teachers face when using the Station Rotation Model: managing noise while maintaining meaningful collaboration. I walk through six quiet, high-engagement collaborative routines—from virtual scavenger hunts to shared visual artifacts—that …

In this episode, I talk about using video strategically for explanations or models that we plan to present the same way for all students, and that they often need to revisit. I dig into the common concerns teachers raise about video and explain why it can actually remove barriers that live instructi…

In this episode, I talk with Matt Graham, an award-winning educator and the digital media specialist for Chesapeake Public Schools. Matt shares how he first used podcasting with middle school students, then expanded that work and eventually led efforts to create a districtwide podcast focused on cle…

In this episode, I explore how we can make Tier 1 whole group instruction more intentional, engaging, and effective for every learner. I share how chunking content into manageable segments prevents cognitive overload and keeps students engaged in their learning, rather than passive listeners. I shar…

In this episode, I share how a simple seating chart can transform the Station Rotation Model into a more focused and productive learning experience. I talk about how intentional grouping can minimize distractions, strengthen collaboration, and make it easier to assign a facilitator or group leader a…

In this episode, I chat with Christine Feenstra, Executive Director of the California Association for Leading Innovation in Education (CALIE)—formerly known as CUE—about the organization’s evolution and rebrand. Christine shares the why behind the shift, how her team engaged educators and stakeholde…

In this episode, I explore how AI can make differentiation not only doable but sustainable. I share how I use AI tools to support differentiation across content, process, product, and learning environment—helping teachers meet diverse learner needs without doubling their workload. From creating leve…

Differentiation doesn’t have to mean creating 30 different versions of a lesson. In this episode, I unpack what differentiation really looks like in practice and why it’s essential in today’s diverse classrooms. I share examples from elementary, middle, and high school to show how teachers can adjus…

In this episode of The Balance, Jessica Vance joins me to discuss her new book, Evidence of Inquiry: Exploring, Questioning, and Documenting with Learning Walls . We explore what it means to “follow your learners” and how inquiry shifts the way teachers engage students around the topics and concepts…

In this episode of The Balance, I tackle one of the biggest concerns teachers raise about the Station Rotation Model: can I really trust students to work independently while I’m at the teacher-led station? I share strategies for setting the stage for success, including co-creating class agreements, …

In this episode of The Balance, I dig into why the teacher-led station is the heart of the Station Rotation Model. I share how I use this time with small groups for differentiated direct instruction, modeling sessions, and need-based instruction driven by real-time data. I also discuss how I facilit…

In this episode of The Balance, I talk with Shira Woolf Cohen, co-founder of Innovageous and author of Leading Future-Focused Schools: Engaging and Preparing Students for Career Success. With nearly three decades in education and workforce development, Shira shares why the gap between what students …

In this episode, I’m digging into a challenge I hear about a lot: the tension between fidelity to an adopted curriculum and the need for teacher creativity. Too often, teachers feel pressured to follow lessons lockstep, leaving little room to respond to their students’ needs or bring their own exper…

AI is transforming education, but I believe strong prompts are the key to unlocking its potential. In this episode, I share the REFINE acronym I developed to give educators a structured approach to writing effective AI prompts. I walk through each step—assigning AI a role, setting clear expectations…

In this episode of The Balance, I chat with Sunil Gunderia, Chief Innovation Officer at Age of Learning, the company behind ABCmouse. Sunil is driving efforts to design AI-powered tools that personalize learning for young children while keeping safety and effectiveness at the center. We discuss how …

Strong classroom communities don’t happen by accident—they’re built through intentional, daily practices that prioritize connection. In this second episode of the Starting Strong series, Dr. Catlin Tucker explores how getting to know your students and creating a culture of belonging can transform yo…

Before diving into lesson planning, classroom setup, and organizing all the things, there’s one essential step too many teachers skip—reflection. In this first episode of the Starting Strong series, Dr. Catlin Tucker explores why thoughtful reflection on last year’s wins, challenges, and habits can …

I discovered Evalaurene Jean-Charles on Instagram and was instantly drawn to her joyful, honest, and unfiltered reflections on life as an educator. Her posts tackle hard truths about teaching and school systems, but always with a sense of hope, purpose, and joy. In the second episode of our conversa…

I discovered Evalaurene Jean-Charles on Instagram and was instantly drawn to her joyful, honest, and unfiltered reflections on life as an educator. Her posts tackle hard truths about teaching and school systems, but always with a sense of hope, purpose, and joy. In this first part of our two-part co…

In this final episode of the four-part series, I explore how the Station Rotation Model can nurture self-regulation, metacognition, and agency in multilingual learners. I share practical routines—like weekly goal setting, thinking routines, and strategy choice boards—that help students reflect, moni…

In this episode, I explore how intentional design can help multilingual learners thrive at the online and offline stations in a rotation model. I share seven practical strategies—from using visuals and sentence frames to building predictable routines and peer supports—that build student confidence a…

Why are so many teens tuned out, stressed out, or just going through the motions at school? In this episode, I talk with journalist Jenny Anderson and education expert Rebecca Winthrop about their new book The Disengaged Teen, which breaks down four student engagement modes—Resister, Passenger, Achi…

In this episode, I explore how small group instruction can transform learning experiences for multilingual learners. You'll learn why the teacher-led station in a station rotation model is the ideal space to differentiate support, build confidence, and offer real-time feedback. I break down three hi…

In this first episode of my new series, I explore how the station rotation model can be a game-changer for multilingual learners. I break down the barriers these students often face in whole-group instruction and explain how small-group, differentiated stations create more equitable learning experie…

In this episode of The Balance, I chat with educator and author Trevor MacKenzie about how inquiry-based learning creates accessible entry points and personalized pathways that build student agency, curiosity, and deeper engagement. Trevor shares practical strategies, unpacks the phases of the inqui…

In this episode, I dive into a powerful variation of the station rotation model designed to maximize personalization and student agency. By using data to assign must-do stations and allowing students to choose from may-do options, teachers can tailor learning while giving students meaningful control…

The Station Rotation Model + UDL = Stronger Tier I Instruction In this episode, I’m announcing the release of my new book, The Station Rotation Model and Universal Design for Learning: Elevating Tier 1 Instruction and Cultivating Learner Agency . I wrote it to help educators tackle a challenge I hea…

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Brandee Ramirez about what it takes to lead AI implementation across a school district. She shares how her work focuses on supporting all stakeholders—teachers, students, families, and staff—in building confidence with AI tools and understanding their practical value…

In this episode, I unpack three guiding principles for using technology to personalize and improve learning. From designing tech-enhanced instructional models to using tools to remove barriers and collect better data, this conversation will help you shift from simply using tech to using it well. If …

End-of-Year Engagement Made Easy As the school year winds down, it can be tough to keep students focused and motivated. In this episode, I share a strategy that uses the 5Es instructional model to guide students through a self-directed inquiry project. This approach gives learners voice and choice, …

In this episode of The Balance, I sit down with Ruba Abi Saab, Instructional Coach and Teaching and Learning Coordinator at Al Rayan International School in Accra, Ghana. Ruba shares how concept-based inquiry shapes her work with teachers and students, encouraging deeper thinking, empathy, and purpo…

Feedback and rubrics are powerful tools. In this episode, I explore how shifting from deficit-based to asset-based language can transform both your feedback and your rubrics. Drawing from my recent blog, I share why this shift matters, how it aligns with UDL, and how small changes in language can ha…

We revisit an earlier episode when Dr. Catlin Tucker spoke with Kareem Farah about maximizing teacher time, boosting student engagement, and reimagining workflows through his Modern Classrooms Project. About Modern Classrooms Project Modern Classrooms Project Free Course

What do we mean when we say Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? How can UDL support an antiracist learning environment? In this episode of Dr. Catlin Tucker’s podcast, The Balance, she invites Andratesha Fritzgerald, an inclusive practices implementation consultant and life-long educator, to offer …

Catlin talks with Dr. Shaun Woodly about his personal experience teaching in urban schools with culturally diverse students. Catlin and Shaun discuss the need to consider, “What learning really looks like?” and whether teachers are creating spaces to foster authentic learning experiences for kids. L…

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tony Frontier, author of AI with Intention: Principles and Action Steps for School Leaders and Teachers , to explore how educators and school leaders can navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI with purpose. We discuss intentional leadership, the risks and …

In this episode, I explore how teachers can use what they learn about students during Tier 1 instruction to make informed decisions about what comes next. I discuss how to identify who needs targeted support and who’s ready for enrichment or extension. You'll hear practical strategies for collecting…

Despite massive investments in educational technology, many classrooms still look and feel the same. Why? Because technology alone doesn’t drive transformation—how we use it does. In this episode, I break down why EdTech often falls short and share practical strategies, like blended learning models …

Delivering strong Tier 1 instruction is essential for ensuring all students have access to high-quality learning experiences. In this episode, I share three high-impact strategies—video instruction, whole-group instruction paired with a cooperative learning strategy, and small-group differentiated i…

In this episode, I chat with Caleb Hicks , CEO of Schoolai , to explore how AI can be a powerful tool for personalizing learning pathways and fostering meaningful connections in the classroom. We discuss how Schoolai spaces can help teachers see and hear students in real time, making it easier to be…

Great instruction starts before the lesson begins. In this episode, I review three critical steps teachers can take to prepare for effective Tier 1 instruction, ensuring all students have access to meaningful, engaging learning experiences. By designing with intentionality—and leveraging AI as a tho…

How can AI make learning more accessible and equitable for all students? In this episode, I explore NotebookLM, Google's AI-powered research assistant, and its potential to support inclusive learning. Discover how this tool transforms lecture notes, articles, slide decks, websites, and YouTube video…

In this mini-episode, I explore strategies like the station rotation model, playlists, choice boards, and inquiry cycles that help educators design self-directed, meaningful learning experiences while creating time to address Tier 2 needs. I’ll discuss how formative assessment and progress monitorin…

In this episode, I chat with Robert Barnett , co-founder of The Modern Classrooms Project and author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs: Redesigning Instruction So All Learners Can Succeed . We dive into the power of self-paced learning—even for young students—explore how digitizing direct instruction ca…

In this episode, I explore the shift toward inclusive classrooms, where students with diverse needs, including IEPs and unique learning profiles, learn side-by-side with their peers. What does it take to create equitable and effective learning environments? I discuss the foundational role of differe…

In this mini-episode, Dr. Catlin Tucker explores the Immunity to Change model and its potential to transform education. Discover how this powerful framework can help educators and leaders identify hidden barriers, confront competing commitments, and unlock personal and professional growth. For more,…

In this mini-episode, Dr. Tucker reads the introduction of her newest book with Dr. Katie Novak, Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable . Find out what inspired the book, who the book is for, how it is structured, and how Dr. Tucker and Dr. Novak h…

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Michelle Ament, the co-founder of the Human Intelligence Movement . We discuss why it’s essential to move beyond content coverage and standardized testing to prioritize creativity, empathy, and critical thinking—skills that empower students to succeed in a rapidly ad…

In this mini-episode, I provide a peak into my new book Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable . If you’re a teacher feeling frustrated because your lessons aren’t meeting students’ diverse needs or leading to the engagement and progress you hope f…

In this mini-episode, I explore the benefits of presenting Tier 1 instruction in small group, differentiated instructional sessions. Small groups are not just beneficial for targeted support and intervention; they can elevate Tier 1 instruction, reducing the need for Tier 2 and 3 interventions. When…

In our 100th episode of The Balance, I sit down with educator and bestselling author Matt Eicheldinger, whose heartwarming and relatable stories about small, everyday moments as a teacher have gone viral on Instagram and TikTok. Matt shares his journey from classroom teacher to published author, off…

In this mini-episode, I explore the power of concept maps as a dynamic tool for helping students make meaning and deepen their understanding. I discuss the benefits of concept mapping, review various formats for organizing and visually representing new information, and a few steps teachers can take …

In this episode, I chat with Sue Thotz, the Director of Outreach for Common Sense Education and co-founder of Equity in Action California. We discuss resources and strategies educators, parents, and families can lean on to help guide young people in navigating the complexities of living in an age of…

In this episode of Ask Catlin, I’m diving into your questions about AI in the classroom! From practical ways to use AI with students to strategies for fostering critical thinking and balancing AI use, I’ll cover it all. I also tackle the tricky issue of AI-generated student work and share how AI can…

In this mini-episode, I explore strategies for designing effective block periods. Transitioning from a traditional 6- or 7-period day to longer blocks can feel overwhelming, but with intentional planning and the use of content blocks, you can create dynamic, engaging lessons. Learn how to balance di…

In this episode, I chat with Colton Monti, the principal at Selah High School, about his leadership journey. Colton shares how he has cultivated a school culture that encourages teachers to embrace lifelong learning and adapt to change. We discuss the strategies he uses to support educators in shift…

In this episode, I’m answering all your questions about choice boards! Wondering how many options to offer or how to differentiate effectively? I’ve got you covered. Plus, I share a ridiculous Halloween memory involving me, a golf cart, and a wild chase—while dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West.

In this mini-episode, I share five tips teachers can use to design tasks and assignments that are AI-resistant. These tips seek to capitalize on some of the limitations of AI right now. Designing AI-resistant tasks isn’t about avoiding technology; rather, it’s about designing assignments that challe…

In this special episode, I share my audio diaries, reflecting on daily experiences and insights from working with schools in Cairo and Ghana.

In this episode, I chat with Toni Rose Deanon about their journey as an educator and the transition from traditional, teacher-led lessons to a more student-driven, self-paced learning model with the Modern Classroom Project. We explore our shared work supporting teachers, the ways fear can stifle in…

In this mini-episode, I explore the questions: Why don’t we trust our students? What is it that we really fear? As someone who regularly works with teachers on topics like blended learning, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and student-led learning, one recurring theme I encounter is control. Edu…

In this episode, I chat with Jose Gonzolas, the Chief Technology Officer for the Los Angeles County Office of Education. He was recently named one of the top 100 influencers in education. We chat about data visualization, artificial intelligence, and supporting student and teacher success with techn…

In this episode, Noelle and I discuss five strategies designed to maximize co-teaching using the Station Rotation Model. As schools focus on creating inclusive classrooms and least restrictive learning environments, co-teaching offers an exciting pathway to meet all learners' needs in the classroom.…

In this mini-episode, I share my journey to the TEDx stage and provide a sneak peek into my talk. You can watch Education Reimagined: Student-led Learning on YouTube , download the free interactive workbook on my website , and dive into my self-paced course that extends on the ideas presented in my …

In this mini-episode, I explain why I've never liked the term "classroom management" and prefer to focus on building a strong classroom culture and partnering with students to establish class agreements and a clear path of consequences.

In this episode, I chat with Avery Pan, an education enthusiast, former writing tutor, and cofounder of Class Companion – an AI platform, designed in partnership with teachers. Class Companion provides instant coaching and feedback for students in a way that teachers can control.

In this mini-episode, I delve into the reciprocal teaching strategy, highlighting its power to foster critical thinking and deep engagement with media among students. I walk you through the strategy step-by-step and offer practical tips on how to onboard your students effectively. Episode Resource B…

In this episode, I chat with Eric Sheninger and Nicki Slaugh about their new book Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners . We clarify what personalized learning is and talk about how data, using technology strategically, and focusing on human connection and relationships are key. Eric and Ni…

In this mini-episode, Dr. Katie Novak tells us all about her new podcast, The Education Table . She shares her inspiration, describes the microformat, and discusses a few of the topics she has already covered!

In this mini-episode, I dispell some of the misconceptions about what blended learning is and is not. I highlight the benefits of this combination for positioning students to become active agents in the learning experience while freeing teachers to more effectively meet the diverse needs of students…

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Randy Laist, Dr. Cynthia Murphy, and Dr. Nicole Brewer about their book Rethinking Writing Instruction in the Age of AI . Discover how the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) form the bedrock of their innovative strategies, aimed at empowering students …

In this Ask Catlin episode, Catlin and Noelle answer your questions about differentiation and what it looks like to differentiate content, process, and products. Plus, you'll find out what song Catlin says is currently reflecting her frame of mind.

Choice boards are a fantastic tool for honoring learner variability and providing students with meaningful choices. Not every student enjoys the same task, so giving them options is critical to maximizing their motivation and focus in a lesson. Choice boards allow us to honor our students’ preferenc…

In this episode, I chat with Alexis Wiggins, 20-year teacher and author of, The Best Class You Never Taught: How Spider Web Discussion Can Turn Students into Learning Leaders . Alexis explains the purpose, process, and incredible outcomes of using the spider web discussion to engage students in coll…

In this Ask Catlin episode, Catlin and Noelle answer your questions about grading practices and how to make grading more manageable.

In this episode, I share three reasons teachers should consider using the playlist model to provide students with more control over the pace and path of their learning. https://catlintucker.com/2024/03/3-reasons-playlist-model/

In this episode, I talk with Angela Watson about her most recent work integrating AI into her 40-Hour Work Week Course for teachers interested in leveraging AI to create more work-life balance. Angela also shares a new project called Finding Flow Solutions that is designed to help students be more e…

In this Ask Catlin episode, Catlin answers your questions about assessment.

In this mini-episode, I explore the role of pre-assessment data in designing with a high-level of intention. Incorporating pre-assessment strategies isn't just about collecting data; it’s about creating a responsive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.

In this episode, I chat with Ben and Jenn about their new book, Eduprotocol Field Guide: Elementary Edition . We explore how these lesson frames empower young learners to build confidence and skills, while also providing educators with strategies to achieve balance in their professional lives.

In this Ask Catlin episode, I answer your questions about the playlist model. So, if you have ever wondered how a playlist is different from a choice board, how long students should work on a playlist, or how to track student progress through a playlist if they are self-pacing, this episode is for y…

In this mini-episode, I share some exciting professional and personal updates and describe a simple yet effective strategy for keeping students on-task during a station rotation lesson. Instead of assigning a "deliverable" at every station that teachers feel they need to grade, let's explore a check…

In this episode, I chat with Pablo Muñoz about his career and book, The Leader's Algorithm . He has 30 years of public education experience as a teacher, administrator, and superintendent of schools. He shares his insights on leading complex educational systems. You can connect with Pablo Muñoz and …

In this mini-episode, I explore the value and process of cultivating meaning-making in classrooms. Meaning-making is the process by which students interpret, understand, and make sense of the information, experiences, and world around them. In this episode, I share strategies teachers can use to hel…

[ReAir] In this episode, Dr. Katie Novak and I discuss our newest book, The Shift to Student-led . In it, we identify ten teacher-led, time-consuming, often frustratingly ineffective workflows and reimagine them from a sustainable, student-led perspective using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) an…

In this mini-episode, I share a strategy I call "going horizontal with your agenda." The purpose of this strategy is to help teachers conceptualize how they can shift from a linear whole-group lesson to a station rotation. The goal is to reimagine the individual learning activities in their linear a…

In this mini-episode, I read excerpts from the introduction of my new book, Shift Writing into the Classroom with UDL and Blended Learning. In this excerpt, I explain why Dr. Novak and I wrote it, who the book is for, and how it is structured so you know what to expect. I hope this sneak peek into t…

In this episode, I talk with James Anderson about his new book, Learnership . James coined the word "learnership" to bring together the idea of craftsmanship and learning. He makes the point that learning is not simply a product of good teaching; learning is the result of what learners do. In this c…

I answer your questions about student agency in this Ask Catlin episode. You'll also hear about my favorite and least favorite holiday. If you want to learn more about the student agency, check out my collection of blogs on student agency . If you have questions about education, blended learning, or…

In this mini-episode, I introduce a strategy called Keep, Start, Stop for collecting student feedback at the mid-point of the school year. The goal is to identify what is working and what might need to be reimagined to ensure the rest of the school year is as positive and productive as possible. Tea…

In this episode, I chat with Henry Turner, an award-winning principal, about his work leading change at his school. We discuss his work fostering an inclusive school culture on his campus and his book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School. You can connect with Hen…

In this mini-episode, I discuss the value of writing across the curriculum. Writing deepens learning, positively impacts academic performance, improves students’ ability to establish and maintain relationships, and helps students manage their complex emotions. In our third book, Shift Writing into t…

I'm excited to announce that Dr. Katie Novak and I have written a third book titled Shift Writing into the Classroom with UDL and Blended Learning , coming out on January 9, 2024! In this mini-episode, I talk about why we wrote the book and how we hope it will support teachers across disciplines to …

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Cassondra Corbin-Thaddies about her research on high-achieving black male students. Dr. Corbin-Thaddies shares insights from her research and how it can help teachers support black male students in their classrooms. You can learn more about Dr. Corbin-Thaddies's work…

In this mini-episode, I discuss the buzz around AI-powered education tools. Instead of focusing on the tools themselves, I want to focus on how we use them to support strong pedagogical practices. These AI education tools can be utilized to meet students' diverse needs, transforming how we design an…

In this mini-episode, I troubleshoot a common problem teachers face when using the flipped classroom model. What do they do if students come to class unprepared? In this episode, I discuss the value of this blended learning model and share strategies teachers can use if students regularly come to cl…

I answer your questions about the whole group rotation in this Ask Catlin episode with special guest Noelle Gutierrez. You'll also hear about my favorite movie as a kid. If you have questions about teaching, education, blended learning, or work-life balance, please send them to me via Twitter @Catli…

In this episode, I chat with Paul France about his new book Making Teaching Sustainable . Paul shares how his research helped him to identify six mindset shifts that are critical to making this work more rewarding and sustainable.

In this minisode, I explore the tension between the time-saving nature of traditional teaching models and our desire to design equitable learning experiences. Designing equitable learning experiences requires more time and intentionality, but teachers can leverage AI technology to significantly redu…

I answer your questions about classroom management in this Ask Catlin episode with special guest Noelle Gutierrez. You'll also hear about the superpower I wish I had. If you have questions about teaching, education, blended learning, or work-life balance, please send them to me via Twitter @Catlin_T…

In this minisode, I encourage teachers to get creative with their adopted curriculum. Just because a curriculum is written for a whole group, teacher-led model doesn't mean that is the only way we can use it! Teachers who want to experiment with blended learning models just need to be creative in th…

In this episode, I chat with Eric Dahlberg , CEO of eSpark Learning, about the future of AI in classrooms. We discuss the role of AI in personalizing learning, the potential benefits and dangers of AI in education, and explore how AI may disrupt the status quo in classrooms.

The end of the year is the perfect time to pause and take stock of what worked well and what needs reimagining for the next school year. Before going on a much-deserved summer break, take a moment to pause and be a reflective practitioner. That way, you have those notes to return to when you are rea…

I answer your questions about the flipped classroom model in this Ask Catlin episode. You'll also hear about the famous person I would most like to meet for coffee and conversation. If you want to learn more about the flipped classroom model, check out my mini-course . If you have questions about ed…

In this episode, Alice Keeler and I chat about student engagement. It's easy to spot but hard to design for. We discuss the power of leveraging technology, incorporating interactive tools, and embracing student-centered learning practices to increase engagement. We explore strategies teachers can us…

In this mini-episode of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how teachers can weave social-emotional learning skills into their work with students using the core competencies in the CASEL Framework as a guide. This episode focuses on the first competency: social awareness. CASEL Framework Social…

In this mini-episode of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how teachers can weave social-emotional learning skills into their work with students using the core competencies in the CASEL Framework as a guide. This episode focuses on the first competency: relationship skills. CASEL Framework Soc…

I answer your questions about the station rotation model in this Ask Catlin episode. You'll also hear about my most embarrassing moment from grade school. If you're interested in learning more about the station rotation model, check out my mini-course . If you have questions about education, blended…

In this mini-episode of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how teachers can weave social-emotional learning skills into their work with students using the core competencies in the CASEL Framework as a guide. This episode focuses on the first competency: responsible decision-making. CASEL Frame…

On episode 27 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker invites Dr. Tim Shanahan, educator, researcher, and education policy-maker focused on literacy education, to discuss literacy across all subjects, student agency, and finding balance in education. Tim Shanahan's Website

In this Ask Catlin episode, Catlin answers teachers' questions about technology tools and tech integration. Check out this episode if you've ever wondered when to use technology or which technology tools to use in a lesson. Check out Catlin's Education Technology Tools for a Blended Learning Environ…

In mini-episode 10 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how teachers can weave social-emotional learning skills into their work with students using the core competencies in the CASEL Framework as a guide. This episode focuses on the first competency: self-management. CASEL Framework Social-em…

Education circles are buzzing with the implications of ChatGPT, a new AI technology. In this episode, I discuss the implications of this disruptive technology in education and how teachers can approach this work in a rapidly changing world.

In mini-episode 9 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how teachers can weave social-emotional learning skills into their work with students using the core competencies in the CASEL Framework as a guide. This episode focuses on the first competency: self-awareness. CASEL Framework Social-Emot…

On episode 26 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with Dr. Sunita Gandhi about her experiences studying a different approach to education, opening schools around the world, and The Global Dream project.

On mini-episode 8 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses using video instruction to make more time for human connection in a classroom. To learn more about The Flipped Classroom Model, check out Dr. Tucker’s mini-course.

On episode 25 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with Kareem Farah about maximizing teacher time, boosting student engagement, and reimagining workflows through his Modern Classrooms Project. About Modern Classrooms Project Modern Classrooms Project Free Course

On mini-episode 7 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how to prioritize student agency, differentiation, and facilitate learning with the station rotation model. The Station Rotation Model: Prioritize Differentiation, Student Agency + 4Cs 21st-Century Learning The Station Rotation Model: Get…

On episode 24 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with Joe and Carina, two students from her courses at Pepperdine University in the Masters in the Arts of Teaching Program, to discuss their first year of teaching. Start Class with Community Building Conversations

On mini-episode 6 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses making student agency sustainable in the classroom by identifying three points in learning: the what, how, and why. 3 Ways to Build Student Agency into Your Lessons Would You Rather: Designing with Choice in Mind

On episode 23 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker invites A.J. Juliani, bestselling author, experienced educator, and current faculty for the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, to discuss enhancing adaptability in education to improve student engagement.

On mini-episode 5 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker discusses how she was able to reevaluate her approach to grading by asking one straightforward question: what is the purpose of this work? Grading Flowchart

On this episode of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker invites Scott McLeod, J.D., Ph.D, Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, to discuss cultivating leaders as builders, working on mindsets, and supporting self-care for educators. Leadership for Deeper Learning Print…

On episode 22 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker invites Ken Shelton, Apple Distinguished Educator, Google Certified Innovator, keynote speaker and consultant, to discuss dismantling stereotypes, cultural intelligence, and challenges facing educational institutions.

On episode 21 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker invites Matt Miller, blogger, author, speaker, and educator to discuss rethinking the approach to instruction, assessment, and creating a work-life balance to retain great teachers.

On episode 20 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker invites Paul France to share ideas from his book, Reclaiming Personalized Learning. They discuss personalized learning as a pedagogy for restoring equity and promoting humanity in the classroom. Listen now.

What do we mean when we say Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? How can UDL support an antiracist learning environment? In this episode of Dr. Catlin Tucker’s podcast, The Balance, she invites Andratesha Fritzgerald, an inclusive practices implementation consultant and life-long educator, to offer …

What is innovation? How can we empower teachers to drive their own innovation? Dr. Catlin Tucker and her guest, George Couros , an Innovative Teaching, Learning, and Leadership Consultant, tackle these questions with laughs and insights along the way. Listen now.

What steps can you take to minimize stress and manage your workload to avoid burnout? What do we mean when we say human-centered teaching? On this episode of Dr. Catlin Tucker’s podcast, The Balance, she invites Angela Watson , a productivity and mindset specialist with 11 years of classroom experie…

How do we understand and engage with the overwhelming emotions we experience as educators—as humans? “I saw an incredible number of beautiful, passionate, committed teachers burn out and leave the profession,” says Elena Aguilar . So, she wrote a guidebook for teachers called Onward to help them bui…

How can you create inclusive classrooms, design for learner variability, and remove barriers to learning? Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with Dr. Katie Novak, author and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, about Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a solution to the wide variety of student needs…

Educators are often overwhelmed by the pressure to “cover it all” when it comes to content and curriculum. In this episode, Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with Jay McTighe about designing learning experiences for transfer—focusing on how students will apply their learning instead. By reframing and choosing…

How can we reimagine project-based learning (PBL) for this moment in time? In this episode of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with PBL international expert and founder of CraftED Curriculum , Dr. Jennifer Pieratt about how project-based learning can increase student agency and engagement in onl…

The pandemic is changing education. How will teacher preparation programs need to shift in response? How can administrators lead their communities at this time? Why doesn't society value the important work educators do? Dr. Ivy Ewell-Eldridge, current school site administrator in Southern California…

The global pandemic and reckoning around racial justice are creating immediate and sometimes overwhelming changes to the education system. As a result, the daily lives of teachers and educators across the nation look drastically different today than they did last year. Dr. Catlin Tucker invited Linw…

As educators prepare for an uncertain back-to-school, Dr. Catlin Tucker encourages teachers to take control of what they CAN: the design of their courses. The teacher’s role as a designer of an online or blended learning course is a critical part of the teaching presence in an online or blended comm…

In episode 12 of The Balance, Dr. Catlin Tucker talks with Jon Corippo , Chief Learning Officer at CUE (Computer Using Educators), where he directs CUE’s onsite, online, social media, and conference planning. Jon and Catlin discuss reprioritizing students and putting them at the center of learning. …

Teachers are often asked to incorporate social and emotional learning into their instruction, but what about their own well-being? In episode 11 of The Balance, Catlin Tucker talks with Dr. Maria Hersey, founder and CEO of Global Education Advisors, about how educators can prioritize their own self-…

What a whirl-wind the last few months have been for educators. Teachers and students can finally see the light at the end of an emotionally exhausting year. “So many kids,” says Catlin Tucker, “aren’t getting that closure… that celebratory ending that they really crave at the end of the school year.…

In this episode, Catlin Tucker talks with Rachelle Dene Poth, an emerging technology presenter, Spanish/STEAM teacher, author, and lawyer, about the power of relationships in education. They discuss solutions designed to help teachers build stronger connections with students, maximize their time whe…

We all have so many questions in our heads—How can I teach effectively given this new situation? How can I build relationships with all of my students via online conferencing platforms? How will distance learning and screen-time impact my students in the long run? In this mini-episode, Catlin Tucker…

How do you balance the needs of family members, working from a new space, and still teach the way you want to teach? Recognizing that most of us are feeling totally off-balance, Catlin acknowledges that navigating this shift from teaching face-to-face to teaching entirely online is a new challenge t…

Catlin talks with Dr. Shaun Woodly about his personal experience teaching in urban schools with culturally diverse students. Catlin and Shaun discuss the need to consider, “What learning really looks like?” and whether teachers are creating spaces to foster authentic learning experiences for kids. L…

Catlin Tucker talks with Jason Green, a School Transformation Expert and Co-founder of LINC (Learning Innovation Catalyst), about leading innovative change that is scalable, building culture on school campuses, and shifting from performing to being present in the classroom. When looking at a school …

Catlin Tucker talks with Travis Lape (@travislape) an Innovative Programs Director entering his 7th year with the Harrisburg School District in Pennsylvania. Travis is passionate about creating learning environments that leverage the best instructional practices that get the largest effect on learni…

Catlin Tucker talks with Lisa Highfill ( @lhighfill) , a technology integration coach and a classroom teacher for over twenty years, about balance in the classroom and beyond! Lisa weighs in on how teachers can shift their roles from being the disseminator of information to true architects of learni…

Catlin Tucker converses with Adam Welcome, a former educator, principal, and director of innovation, now EdTech consultant about balance in the classroom! Adam advises teachers to focus on what is sustainable for their classroom and to consider letting students be the experts on a variety of topics.…

In this episode of The Balance, I talk with Tiffany Wycoff, a mother, an educator, and an entrepreneur. We explore issues related to the balance or, more accurately, the imbalance of power and responsibility in classrooms. We question the current role many students occupy as passive consumers. We di…