Dr. Catlin Tucker is a bestselling author, international trainer, and keynote speaker. She was named Teacher of the Year in 2010 in Sonoma County, where she taught for 16 years. Catlin earned her doctorate in learning technologies from Pepperdine University. Currently, Catlin is working as a blended learning coach, education consultant, and professor in a Masters of Arts in Teaching program. Catlin has published several books on blended learning, including The Shift to Student-led, The Compl ...
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Classroom Management | Student Engagement | Educator Lifestyle & Entrepreneurship
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Leading AI Implementation: Building an Inclusive, Integrated Approach to Emerging Tech in Schools with Dr. Brandee Ramirez
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1:03:26In 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. Dr. Ramirez unpacks the difference between an ed…
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From Distraction to Transformation: 3 Ways to Use Tech to Truly Personalize Learning
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22:55In 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 you've ever felt frustrated or overwhelmed by tech…
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End-of-Year Engagement: Student-Led Learning with the 5Es Model
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17:12End-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, encourages deep exploration, and meets their need …
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Heart, Mind, and Action: How Concept-Based Inquiry Positions Students to Make Meaning with Ruba Abi Saab
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41:30In 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 purposeful action. We talk about her passion for integr…
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Asset-Based Language in Feedback and Rubrics
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24:14Feedback 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 have a big impact on student motivation and self-eff…
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Revisited: The Modern Classrooms Project with Kareem Farah
50:08
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50:08We 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 CourseBy catlinthebalance
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Revisited: Antiracism and Universal Design for Learning with Andratesha Fritzgerald
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52:13What 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 clarity around these themes and questions. Learn M…
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Revisited: Sparking Engagement in Urban and Culturally Diverse Classrooms with Dr. Shaun Woodly
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54:37Catlin 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. Listen to Shaun and Catlin as they discuss the four…
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AI with Intention: Dr. Tony Frontier on Leading, Teaching, and Learning in the Age of AI
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1:00:50In 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 opportunities of AI in education, the role of acade…
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From Insight to Action: Using Tier 1 Data to Drive Intervention & Enrichment
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29:42In 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 and using informal data to guide these decisions.…
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Why EdTech Isn’t Transforming Learning—And How to Fix It
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14:12
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14:12Despite 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 and reciprocal teaching, to ensure technology enha…
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Three High-Impact Strategies for Effective Tier 1 Instruction
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28:20Delivering 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 instruction—that can make lessons more engaging and…
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SchoolAI: Helping Every Student Feel Seen and Heard with Caleb Hicks
1:01:36
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1:01:36In 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 responsive to their needs. Caleb shares his vision …
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Three Tips to Prepare for Strong Tier 1 Instruction
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20:20Great 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 thought partner—we can create more inclusive and equi…
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Increasing Accessibility with AI: How NotebookLM Supports Inclusive Learning
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17:54How 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 videos into interactive study guides, FAQs, and even po…
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Mini-episode: Making Time for Tier 2 Support and Enrichment
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22:42In 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 monitoring tools help educators identify students' needs an…
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Meeting Every Learner's Needs with Robert Barnett
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47:46In 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 can free teachers to focus on deeper connections with …
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Designing for Inclusion: Strategies to Support Every Learner
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21:02In 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 differentiated Tier 1 instruction and the power of the MT…
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Breaking Through Barriers: The Immunity to Change Model in Education
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19:40In 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, you can read Dr. Tucker’s blog titled, "Why Teach…
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Preview of Elevating Educational Design with AI
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17:48In 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 hope it will help educators design learning experien…
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Human Intelligence in an AI World: Cultivating Essential Skills for the Future with Dr. Michelle Ament
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46:08In 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 advancing AI-driven world.…
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Designing for Equity and Engagement: A Preview of Elevating Educational Design with AI
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13:34In 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 for, this book is for you. I’ll show you how to desi…
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Elevate Tier 1 Instruction–The Equity Advantage of Small Groups
15:54
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15:54In 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 teachers provide instruction on a foundational co…
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Sticky Notes and Viral Stories: Matt Eicheldinger Shows How Small Moments Have a Big Impact
41:48
41:48
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41:48In 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, offering insights into how these seemingly simple exp…
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Concept Maps: A Powerful Meaning-Making Tool
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24:00In 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 to maximize the impact of concept mapping. For mor…
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Helping Young People Navigate an Increasingly Complex Digital Landscape with Sue Thotz
51:25
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51:25In 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 social media, artificial intelligence, and 24/7 c…
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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 support special needs students and English langua…
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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 direct instruction with student-led activities, mix …
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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 shifting their instructional practices, putting student…
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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.By catlinthebalance
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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 challenge students to think critically, collaborate mean…
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In this special episode, I share my audio diaries, reflecting on daily experiences and insights from working with schools in Cairo and Ghana.By catlinthebalance
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Overcoming Fear & Leaning into Change: The Power of Self-paced Learning
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54:33In 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 innovation, the limitations of conventional teaching…
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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. Educators have a lot of fears about releasing control…
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Tech Talk: Data Visualization, The Digital Divide & Artificial Intelligence
38:59
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38:59In 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 technology. You can connect with Jose on X @JRGonzalezS…
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Ask Catlin & Noelle: Creating Inclusive Classrooms with Station Rotation Model and Co-teaching
21:53
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21:53In 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. To read more about these strategies and see examp…
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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 talk on Teachable!…
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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.By catlinthebalance
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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.By catlinthebalance
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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 Blog - Reciprocal Teaching with Multimedia Resource…
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Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners
53:20
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53:20In 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 Nicki share their experiences and advice about how to…
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Katie Novak Dishes About Her New Podcast, The Education Table
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19:57In 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!By catlinthebalance
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What Blended Learning Is and What It Is Not
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14:11In 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 their classes.…
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Rethinking Writing Instruction in the Age of AI
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51:54In 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 to discover and amplify their individual voices as …
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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.By catlinthebalance
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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’ preferences, needs, and interests, making their learning ex…
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Letting Students Lead the Learning with Spider Web Discussions with Alexis Wiggins
1:00:26
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1:00:26In 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 collaborative inquiry and meaning-making. You can conne…
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In this Ask Catlin episode, Catlin and Noelle answer your questions about grading practices and how to make grading more manageable.By catlinthebalance
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3 Reasons Teachers Should Use the Playlist Model
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16:24In 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/By catlinthebalance
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AI and Teacher Productivity with Angela Watson
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41:12In 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 effective and self-aware learners. You can check ou…
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