Episodes

  • Embracing Universal Design for Learning (UDL): A Pathway to Inclusive Education E256

    Embracing Universal Design for Learning (UDL): A Pathway to Inclusive Education E256
    Nov 8 2024
    Ready to transform your teaching? In this episode of EduMagic, host Dr. Sam Fecich dives into Universal Design for Learning (UDL) with UDL expert Sarah Grossi! This episode is packed with practical tips and real-world examples to help you make your classroom more inclusive, engaging, and supportive of all learners.

    From boosting student choice and voice to designing lessons that allow every student to thrive, Sarah shares her go-to UDL strategies to create a learning environment where students feel empowered to succeed.Join us as we break down the three core UDL principles—engagement, representation, and expression—and discover how to apply them effectively in your daily teaching. Plus, find out how you can earn your Associate UDL Credential to level up your skills and stand out as an inclusive educator!Tune in for:
    • Engagement Tips: Strategies to keep every student engaged and motivated.
    • Representation Insights: How to present information in diverse, accessible ways.
    • Expression Tools: Creative ways for students to demonstrate their knowledge.
    Whether you're new to UDL or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode will inspire you to take action and make every lesson more meaningful. Perfect for educators seeking to create a classroom where all students can shine!🎧 Listen now and start your journey to a UDL-focused classroom!

    Connect with host on Instagram Dr. Samantha Fecich https://www.instagram.com/sfecich/

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    20 mins
  • ClassroomScreen: 10 Features for a Positive and Welcoming Classroom Environment E255

    ClassroomScreen: 10 Features for a Positive and Welcoming Classroom Environment E255
    Oct 28 2024
    Welcome back, EduMagicians! In this episode, Dr. Sam Fecich explores Classroom Screen— a tool designed to create a warm, welcoming, and positive learning environment. Whether you're greeting your students at the door or managing activities throughout the day, Classroom Screen offers practical and engaging ways to set a positive tone and build a safe space for learning.

    Join Dr. Sam as she dives into the customizable features of Classroom Screen, from creating fun and calming backgrounds to setting up quick polls to check in with students. She highlights powerful tools, including:
    • Backgrounds
    • Polls
    • Timers
    • Random Name Picker
    • Educational Games
    With practical tips on using Classroom Screen to foster a supportive, inclusive, and engaging environment, Dr. Sam shares strategies for creating a class culture where every student feels seen and valued.

    Classroom Screen blog post in 2018 - https://www.sfecich.com/post/classroom-screen-the-screen-to-rule-them-all


    Share your own Classroom Screen ideas and designs on Instagram at @SFecich. Tune in and discover how to infuse your classroom with #EduMagic, making every student feel at home!

    Let's connect on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sfecich/
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    12 mins
  • Empowering Future Black Educators Through the Center for Black Educator Development E254

    Empowering Future Black Educators Through the Center for Black Educator Development E254
    Oct 22 2024
    In this episode of the EduMagic Podcast, I sit down with Mimi McKee and Ansharaye Hines from the Center for Black Educator Development to discuss their incredible work in rebuilding the Black teacher pipeline. We dive into why representation in education matters, the profound impact Black educators can have on students, and how the Center is making waves with programs like the Freedom School Literacy Academy and the Black Teacher Pipeline Fellowship.

    We also explore the history behind the decline of Black educators, their advocacy for policy changes, and ways you can support their mission to create a more diverse and equitable education system.

    Tune in to learn how this vital work is transforming the future of education!
    Be sure to visit the Center for Black Educator Development at thecenterblacked.org and follow them on social media to find out how you can get involved.

    This podcast is part of the Teach Better Podcast Network.
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    33 mins
  • Let's create a "Meet the Teacher Candidate" letter E253

    Let's create a "Meet the Teacher Candidate" letter E253
    Oct 11 2024
    In this week's episode of the EduMagic Podcast, we're discussing something practical and fun: creating your "Meet the Teacher Candidate" letter. Whether you're about to start field placements or student teaching, this letter is a must-have for introducing yourself to your cooperating teachers and families.

    For more tips and ideas, check out the full episode and get ready to create a letter that truly reflects you as a future educator!

    Check out https://www.sfecich.com/post/let-s-create-a-meet-the-teacher-candidate-letter for more tips!

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    6 mins
  • AI & UDL: The Dream Team for Learning E252

    AI & UDL: The Dream Team for Learning E252
    Sep 28 2024
    In this episode of the EduMagic Podcast, Dr. Sam Fecich looks into the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Discover how AI tools like DiffIt, Padlet, and Magic School can help create an inclusive and engaging learning environment for all students.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Understand UDL principles and how they support student-centered learning.
    • Learn how to integrate AI tools to create more engaging and personalized learning experiences.
    • Find out best practices and considerations for using AI responsibly in the classroom.


    Dr. Fecich provides a detailed overview of the three UDL principles—engagement, representation, and action and expression—and emphasizes the role of AI in supporting diverse learners, and differentiating instruction.
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    20 mins
  • Padlet Tips and Tricks: Enhancing Collaboration in Your Classroom E251

    Padlet Tips and Tricks: Enhancing Collaboration in Your Classroom E251
    Sep 15 2024
    In the latest episode of the EduMagic Podcast, Dr. Sam Fecich explores Padlet, which is a virtual bulletin board ideal for interactive learning. Whether you're teaching in person or online, Padlet's latest AI-powered features make it easier than ever to create engaging activities and enhance student collaboration.

    Discover innovative ways to incorporate Padlet into your classroom, such as setting up interactive exit tickets and entrance activities, utilizing Padlet's new AI Recipes to generate rubrics, lesson plans, and assessments, and using fun sandbox templates like Jeopardy and spelling games to make learning more engaging.

    Tune in to get actionable tips and strategies to use with your students using Padlet. Let's make learning more fun, collaborative, and creative!
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    9 mins
  • Writing a professional email signature as a student E250

    Writing a professional email signature as a student E250
    Sep 8 2024
    In this episode of EduMagic, Dr. Sam breaks down the essentials of creating a professional yet approachable email signature for aspiring teachers. Whether you're reaching out to educators for field placements, coursework, student teaching, or potential job opportunities, a well-crafted signature can make a lasting impression.

    Dr. Sam shares the key elements every teacher candidate should include, such as full name, title, school, degree, and contact info, along with optional additions like a portfolio link or social media handles. Plus, she provides tips on formatting, using professional fonts, and ensuring your signature is error-free and clickable. Want more email tips?

    Tune in and learn how to set yourself apart with a polished, professional email signature!
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    8 mins
  • Classroom Management Tips: Strengthening Student Relationships for Success E249

    Classroom Management Tips: Strengthening Student Relationships for Success E249
    Aug 31 2024
    In this episode of the EduMagic Podcast, Dr. Sam explores the crucial link between strong student relationships and effective classroom management. You'll learn practical strategies for creating a positive classroom environment, building trust, and engaging students in meaningful ways. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned educator, these tips will help you improve student connections and enhance your classroom management skills. Tune in to discover how a relationship-centered approach can lead to a more harmonious and productive learning experience.
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    20 mins