Best McGill’s Teaching And Learning Services Podcasts (2025)

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Engaging students using Mural Online Collaboration 22:53

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5M ago22:53

22:53

Want to learn about how to engage students using an online teaching tool with a dynamic visual component? Tune in to hear how Prof. Mette Bendixen uses Mural to encourage her students to connect with the course material, engage in peer-to-peer learning, and share how they are faring in a large classroom setting. View the transcript.…

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Sustainability in action: Teaching health geography and learning course design 29:06

5M ago29:06

29:06

How can sustainability transform not only what we teach but also how we go about our teaching? In this episode, Prof. Mylène Riva and PhD student Laurianne Debanné share their journey—including challenges and triumphs—redesigning a Health Geography course to incorporate sustainability principles. Along the way, they learned principles of sustainabl…

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Sustainable approaches to course design: Balancing workload and well-being 30:44

5M ago30:44

30:44

Join us for a conversation with Management Prof. Tatiana Lamoureux Gauvin as we delve into sustainable approaches to course design, focusing on social sustainability, workload management, and efficiency. Discover practical strategies for evergreening your course content, and ensuring it remains relevant and engaging for students. View the transcrip…

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Sustainability meets literature: A fresh take on Hispanic studies 29:23

6M ago29:23

29:23

How can sustainability be integrated into a Hispanic literature course to offer students a modern twist on classic texts? Prof. Cristina Carnemolla and PhD student Daniel Salas describe how they designed a course to engage students with historical texts and contemporary issues through diverse formats like recipes and conduct books, making these tex…

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“Concrete” ideas: Embedding sustainability in an engineering course 26:43

6M ago26:43

26:43

How can sustainability be seamlessly integrated into an engineering course? Prof. Daniele Malomo and PhD student Anna Wang discuss their redesign of a concrete structures course. They share pedagogically sound strategies for embedding sustainability into the curriculum, engaging students with real-world examples, and fostering ethical design practi…

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Integrating sustainability across disciplines 27:15

7M ago27:15

27:15

How can we transform our world through education? To change everything, we need everyone. Prof. Blane Harvey and PhD candidate Stephanie Leite describe the critical role of a holistic approach to sustainability education. Discover insights from McGill’s Sustainability Education Fellows program and learn how innovative course design has the potentia…

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The Secret to Effective Change Leadership in Schools with Anne Sena 46:25

9M ago46:25

46:25

How do you lead change in schools while keeping people at the center? In this episode, we explore how technology, change management, and human connection all come together in modern education. Anne Sena, Director of Technology at St. David's School, shares her unique insights from a career that spans corporate America and independent schools. We di…

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Engaged in learning? Two undergraduate students weigh in 33:26

9M ago33:26

33:26

Have students’ perceptions of engagement changed after the Covid-19 pandemic? Is it harder to focus on lectures in the “attention economy” with overwhelming amounts of information designed to engage us to click and scroll? Are students engaging with learning in ways that are more autonomous—such as watching recorded lectures? In this episode, we sp…

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EdTech Success Through Inclusive Change with Alex Inman 53:17

9M ago53:17

53:17

In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we’re thrilled to welcome Alex Inman, a leader in EdTech and change management, to explore the transformative journey of educational technology—from the first one-to-one programs to the latest AI innovations in schools. Join us as we dive deep into the lessons that past tech shifts can teach us about i…

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A Masterclass on Service Learning with Raj Mundra 40:15

10M ago40:15

40:15

How do we raise young leaders who see the world as their classroom and service as their responsibility? In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we sit down with Raj Mundra, an expert in education and civic engagement with over three decades of experience in shaping independent school students into compassionate, community-focused leaders. Ra…

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Understanding and embracing neurodiversity with Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman, and Barry Prizant [FBF] 20:00

11M ago20:00

20:00

How might the unique minds of Nikola Tesla, Andy Warhol, and Albert Einstein reveal the untapped potential in neurodiversity? Join autism experts Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman, and Barry Prizant in a groundbreaking discussion that dives deep into the heart of neurodiversity. This conversation not only challenges conventional deficit models but al…

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What is memory in the context of teaching and learning? With Ross McGill [FBF] 15:40

11M ago15:40

15:40

Dive into the fascinating world of memory and cognitive science with Ross McGill, also known as @TeacherToolkit , on this insightful episode of the SLP podcast. Sparked by his experience as a blogger facing critiques for evidence-based claims, Ross embarked on a deep dive into cognitive science, a journey that led him to explore the intricacies of …

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Why is strategic planning important? Lessons from Diane Tavenner [FBF] 17:43

11M ago17:43

17:43

Join us in this enlightening conversation with Diane Tavenner, an acclaimed leader in education, as we dive into the world of innovative school design and strategic planning in education. In this video, Diane shares her insights on creating schools that are responsive to the needs of current students, communities, and the evolving world. Discover t…

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How to Build Metacognition and Self-Regulation in Your School with Dr. Shyamm Barr 49:34

11M ago49:34

49:34

In this episode, we dive into the world of self-regulated learning with Dr. Shyam Barr, a thought leader in Australia specializing in student-centered learning and metacognition. Self-regulated learning is all about equipping students with the skills and capacity to understand how they learn best, when they learn best, and how to curate an environm…

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Bonus: Two-stage exams strategy exchange 29:46

11M ago29:46

29:46

Interested in learning about different ways to implement two-stage exams? In this episode, McGill instructors Lawrence Chen, Alice Cherestes, Laura Pavelka, and David Titley-Peloquin join Jasmine and Margo for an exchange about how they use two-stage exams to assess their students’ learning. Listen in to hear them compare their practices and offer …

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How to navigate national educational standards in the UAE? [FBF] 22:08

11M ago22:08

22:08

Dive into a thought-provoking episode with David Gerber, a pioneering educator in the UAE, as we explore how progressive schools can thrive within the constraints of national requirements. Recorded against the backdrop of the innovative Fairgreen school located in the Sustainable City of Dubai, this conversation uncovers the strategies and mindset …

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What makes a school sustainable? Lessons from Green School Bali [FBF] 14:47

12M ago14:47

14:47

Dive into an inspiring episode of the School Leaders Project podcast featuring Sal Gordon, the visionary head of teaching and learning at Green School Bali. Set in the lush jungles of Indonesia, this episode explores the groundbreaking educational approach that sets Green School apart as a beacon of the global education revolution. Sal shares his j…

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How to Lead an Independent School with Peter Baron 34:44

12M ago34:44

34:44

Join us as we dive deep into the world of independent school leadership with Peter Baron, an expert in the field with years of experience and innovative solutions. We explore several crucial themes: 1. The Evolution of Independent Schools: Discover how independent schools have adapted over the years and the pressing need for innovation in their bus…

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Bonus: Obstacles to promoting student well-being, with Kira Smith 29:58

12M ago29:58

29:58

In our inaugural season, we spoke to members of the McGill community about how to leverage learning-focused assessment practices with the aim of improving student well-being. Among our guests was Kira Smith, who spoke to her research on post-secondary instructors’ engagement in supporting student mental health by means of their assessment strategie…

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What is visible thinking? | Insights from Dr. Ron Ritchhart [FBF] 38:55

12M ago38:55

38:55

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ron Ritchhart, a renowned researcher from Harvard and a pioneer in transforming schools into cultures of thinking. In this episode, Dr. Ritchhart shares his insights on how we can develop our students into powerful learners and thinkers by fostering a culture where thinking is made visible. Discover…

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What is Competency-Based Education: Tips and Strategies for Leaders with Rose Colby 1:00:10

12M ago1:00:10

1:00:10

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Rose Colby, a pioneering leader in the field. Over the last 17 years, Rose has guided schools across the nation in shifting from traditional education models to more innovative, personalized approaches that prioritize mastery and deeper learning. We explore the ev…

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How to get students to ask better questions? [FBF] 40:44

12M ago40:44

40:44

In this episode, we dive into an insightful conversation with Trevor McKenzie about his latest book, which introduces 10 high-impact question routines designed to help students become more proficient and curious questioners. Trevor shares the inspiration behind his new book and discusses how these routines can transform classrooms by fostering deep…

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How to Increase Enrollment in Independent Schools with Brendan Schneider 49:09

12M ago49:09

49:09

In this insightful episode, join us as we explore effective marketing techniques for independent schools aiming to increase enrollment. We'll dive into how demographic shifts, COVID-19 impacts, and tuition costs influence prospective families' decisions. Learn about integrating marketing communications, leveraging digital marketing, and the importa…

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How Future Schools Embrace Humanity and Belonging [FBF] 40:13

1y ago40:13

40:13

Listen in as Louka Parry brings a fresh perspective on building a 'fully human' education ecosystem. In this episode, he explores the crucial role of purpose-driven learning, social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies, and cognitive agility in empowering students. Louka shares how to honor diverse cultural practices while cultivating the essential …

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What’s next with AI in Education? With Dan Fitzpatrick 53:10

1y ago53:10

53:10

Welcome to an exciting episode of School Leaders Project! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Dan Fitzpatrick, a leading expert in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation. Dan shares his invaluable insights on several key themes: 1. Always Have an Out: Discover the concept of "always having an out" and how this approach promotes innovative …

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Storytelling and the Future of Education [FBF] 37:55

1y ago37:55

37:55

In today's fast-paced world driven by AI and rapid change, it can feel challenging to keep up. But what if the answers to education's purpose lie in stories- in the continuity of our past and present? In this episode, we chat with historian and futurist Phil Cummins to uncover how we can build future-focused schools while staying true to our core m…

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Explain it in three minutes: Using micro lectures to help students develop communication skills 32:43

1+ y ago32:43

32:43

Many undergraduate students may go on to be policy-makers. Why not have them practice the skill of translating complex concepts and issues into a “pitch” that shows students’ engagement with the course content? This idea became Dr. Tari Ajadi’s three-minute micro lecture assessment, a strategy that he first tried when asked to prepare one himself f…

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Using authentic assessments and flexible grading schemes in a large science course 29:03

1+ y ago29:03

29:03

In her introductory computer science class, Dr. Giulia Alberini asks her approximately 600 students whether they want to be “code crafters” or “problem solvers.” The first group will write two midterms and a final coding project. Instead of the final project, “problem solvers” prepare a technical interview that simulates an authentic real-world exp…

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Leveraging assessments to help students learn to recognize bias 26:29

1+ y ago26:29

26:29

Low or no-stakes assessment tasks give students the opportunity to focus their practice on what they aim to learn and allow them to try their hand at failing. When what they’re learning means recognizing implicit biases in themselves and others, it’s key that students have multiple opportunities to practice developing this skill. In this episode, D…

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Flexible formative assessments: How to keep exam preparation focused on learning 29:27

1+ y ago29:27

29:27

Quizzes are a tried-and-true way to prepare students for higher-stakes exams, but do they allow you to assess the progress of students’ learning? To ensure her students’ learning is on track, which in this case means thinking critically about the immune system, Dr. Jasmin Chahal has her students design concept maps, draw cartoon diagrams, and write…

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A different take on two-stage exams: How collaboration can further assessment for learning 33:07

1+ y ago33:07

33:07

In this episode, we learn about a two-staged mid-term exam where students do a collaborative version of the exam before trying their hand at an individual exam. For Dr. Laura Pavelka, having students work collaboratively and ask questions in an introductory science course were key in helping students understand how science works, so she designed th…

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Welcome back! More conversations reshaping assessment for learning coming your way 1:16

1+ y ago1:16

1:16

Welcome back to Teach.Learn.Share’s exciting new miniseries! Join us over the next five episodes as we delve into creative, concrete, and transferable assessment strategies centered around assessment for learning. In each episode, we sit down with instructors from various Faculties at McGill University to explore a new strategy, discussing its desi…

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Integrating principles of well-being and assessment, with Professor Andrea Creech 32:07

1+ y ago32:07

32:07

Do the assessment choices instructors make support students’ learning and their well-being? To close our five-part miniseries, we wanted to hear an instructor’s perspective. In this episode, we’ve invited Dr. Andrea Creech, Professor of Music Pedagogy at the Schulich School of Music, McGill University, to join the conversation. Andrea shares insigh…

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Striking the right balance on assessment and well-being, with grad students Sakina Rizvi and Connor Sin-Chan 32:44

1+ y ago32:44

32:44

Getting assessment right—being fair, consistent, equitable, and conscientious of students’ and instructors’ well-being—leads to healthier learning environments in university settings but is a difficult balance to strike. In this episode, we talk to two graduate students who share their experiences with the assessment and well-being connection in th…

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Assessment, learning, and student well-being, with undergraduates Jordan Leeson and Hyeonwoo Park 34:59

2y ago34:59

34:59

Interested in knowing what students think about sharing the responsibility of improving assessment practices in higher ed? In this episode of our miniseries on assessment and well-being, we ask Jordan and Woo to explain their perspectives on the emotions bound up with assessment and their potential impact on learning. Listen to Woo and Jordan descr…

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Inclusive assessment practices for healthier learning environments, with Char Lewis-Sutherland 34:11

2y ago34:11

34:11

Assessment can often stir up negative emotions. But what if we can reframe the way we think about it? Assessment has long been equated with what’s wrong, what needs to be “fixed” or “bettered.” In this episode, Char Lewis-Sutherland, a Senior Advisor in McGill’s Equity Team, will challenge us to think, dialogue, and act creatively on assessment. Th…

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Promoting student mental health through assessment practices, with Kira Smith 32:42

2y ago32:42

32:42

This first episode of a miniseries on assessment and well-being sets the stage for our exploration into ways in which to build an inclusive culture of learning and healthier learning environments by focusing on assessment practices. In this episode, Kira Smith, Student Engagement Officer at the Office of Science Education at McGill University, help…

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Welcome to Teach.Learn.Share! 1:30

2y ago1:30

1:30

Teach.Learn.Share’s first miniseries centers on assessment and well-being. Over five episodes, we ask different members of our university community whether we can view learning and student well-being as connected when looking at the way student learning is assessed. We also delve into specific ways in which to build an inclusive culture of learning…

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Moving from Curriculum Maps to Curriculum Storyboards 1:04:54

2y ago1:04:54

1:04:54

Join us for an eye-opening episode with education expert @heidihayesjacobs Discover the power of assessing student connections and the importance of rethinking curriculum layouts. Gain insights into making strategic choices in curriculum design and understanding the true purpose of standards. Learn how to ignite student motivation through tailored …

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Shaping Minds: A Journey to Lifelong Learning 1:32:34

2y ago1:32:34

1:32:34

In this podcast episode with Guy Claxton, the focus is on transforming education to teach children how to learn effectively. Claxton stresses the significance of cultivating learning dispositions, such as curiosity and critical-mindedness, which can be applied across various subjects and real-life situations. He advocates for inspiring intrinsic mo…

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Student Voice: It's Not Nice, It's Necessary 1:05:04

2y ago1:05:04

1:05:04

In this podcast episode, voice experts Lisa Lande and Russ Quaglia discuss the importance of embracing student voices in education. They share insights on understanding why students speak up and the benefits of creating an environment where their opinions matter. They share actionable practices like "Sit With Wisdom," spotlighting the value of genu…

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The Blueprint for High-Achieving Schools: Power Standards and Fair Assessment 1:09:23

2y ago1:09:23

1:09:23

In this episode, we engage with the insights of Douglas Reeves on the transformative role of non-fiction writing and accurate assessment in education. Reeves discusses the shift from average-based to performance-based learning, underlining the importance of formative assessment and power standards. He also sheds light on the practical application o…

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Beginning with the end in mind: Rethinking Assessment 53:20

2y ago53:20

53:20

What began as weekly conversations about their shared interests have evolved into the final piece of the CGC puzzle, assessment. Jay and Kevin talk about their balanced assessment model. (00:00) Introduction(3:07) A dream come true, welcome Jay McTighe! (4:08) Jay and Kevin, the ultimate education bromance (12:00) What the guys are working on (15:4…

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Rethinking education: cultivating curiosity and collaboration in schools 44:09

2y ago44:09

44:09

In this podcast episode, Kevin Bartlett discusses the flaws in traditional school systems and the need for a more effective approach to education. He argues that schools are highly efficient, but they prioritize conformity and hinder curiosity and meaningful conversations. Kevin shares his journey of developing a new learning system driven by colla…

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The Paradigm Shift: Exploring the Learner-Centered Revolution 56:58

2y ago56:58

56:58

What's the difference between a student-centered and learner-centered model? What's really standing in the way of schools making changes? We answer these questions and more in this engaging episode with the creators of the Learner-Centered Framework, Devin Vodicka and Katie Martin. The framework centers on designing schools that meet the needs of o…

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From Factory to Freedom: Customizing Education for Every Student 1:03:41

2y ago1:03:41

1:03:41

In this episode, we dive deep into the flaws of the traditional education system and explore an innovative alternative with Matt Kramer, creator of Wildflower Schools. We discuss the pressing need for personalized learning environments that cater to students’ individual needs, interests, and aspirations. Matt challenges the assembly-line approach o…

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Incorporating Passion, Philosophy, and Inquiry into Education 44:12

2y ago44:12

44:12

Discover the profound impact of philosophy in education with educator and advocate Kimberly Mitchell. Learn practical strategies to incorporate philosophical thinking into your leadership and empower students, teachers, and school communities in navigating a changing world. Access valuable resources like the Plato toolkit and The Liberating Structu…

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Growing Resilient Leaders: Empowering Conversations & Collective Efficacy 1:02:48

2y ago1:02:48

1:02:48

Explore practical strategies for navigating challenges, fostering trust, and setting a positive tone with the world-renowned expert in interpersonal relationships, Jennifer Abrams. Embrace growth and unlock your full potential in creating an empowering learning environment as a leader!---------------------------------------------------------For mor…

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Building a Future-Ready Generation: Nurturing Passions and Expertise 48:25

2y ago48:25

48:25

Join renowned education expert Yong Zhao as he challenges traditional notions of learning to better prepare students for an AI-enabled future. Yong believes in the power of just-in-time learning over the outdated just-in-case approach. He encourages us to understand what makes each student unique and what truly motivates them, rather than focusing …

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Permission to Inquire: Taking Ownership of your Curriculum 1:06:48

2y ago1:06:48

1:06:48

This week at School Leaders Project, we speak to Kath Murdoch. We discover how inquiry is much more than a teaching practice, it is a mindset and a culture. Tune in to get notes on how to use inquiry to take control of your curriculum. Kath also spills the beans on how leaders (unintentionally) use the curriculum to control and limit teacher creati…