Innovations in Education with David Adams

Host David Adams interviews Charles Fadel, an education futurist and artificial intelligence expert. They discuss how Fadel transitioned from engineering to education, believing technology should be used to solve real-world problems. Fadel explains how AI works through probability and pattern recognition to mimic human cognition, though true intelligence requires wisdom beyond tasks or tests. Adams and Fadel explore the hype versus reality of AI's current abilities, noting it exceeds humans at some cognitive and affective skills but falls short on critical reflection. Regarding education's purpose, they agree it must develop the whole person, balancing psychosocial, ethical, and economic goals. Fadel argues the system needs an "S-curve" change, from outdated content to teaching modern disciplines, competencies, and character. He advocates blended learning, with more engaging projects and less rote instruction. Adams and Fadel consider how AI prompts rethinking ossified practices and could help scale excellent, customized learning.

Bestselling author Doug Lemov joins host David Adams to discuss his influential work compiling effective teaching techniques in Teach Like a Champion. Lemov reflects on 13 years of refining the book, aiming to provide teachers with a toolbox to solve problems and become more successful. We explore Lemov's emphasis on shared vocabulary, video observation, concrete feedback, and modeling productive struggle. Doug shares how parenting informed his approach, valuing structure and giving the why behind the decision. He describes his hope to positively impact teachers and create radically better schools, particularly for underserved students.

Former principal Dr. Annette Thompson joins host David Adams to discuss implementing innovative student-centered education models focused on student agency and teacher leadership. Inspired by visiting innovative schools in New Zealand, Dr. Thompson led change using strategies like making mistakes visible, productive struggle, and teacher collaboration. She reflects on overcoming challenges and leaving a legacy of student-centered learning.

David Adams and John B. King Jr. discuss John's experience as a student in the New York City Public Schools system, the innovations that are underway in the State University of New York (SUNY) system under John's leadership, and the things that John is most proud of as a lifelong educator.

David Adams and Tre' Gammage discuss how to successfully integrate social-emotional learning into academics and school culture.

David Adams and Dr. Nelms discuss the turnaround of East High School in Rochester and creating a replicable school reform model for urban cities throughout the United States.

David Adams and Dr. Samuel discuss the importance of social-emotional development in young people and the 4th Annual SEL Day on March 10th.

David Adams sits down with Abby Jo Sigal, Executive Director of the NYC Mayor's Office of Talent and Workforce Development to discuss how the importance of work-based learning and career-connected education in high schools.

David Adams and Ron Berger, best-selling author and Senior Advisor at EL Education, discuss the role of schools in building character in young people, and the importance of social-emotional learning and the concept of “crew” in helping children succeed in school and beyond.

David Adams sits down with Dr. Meisha Porter, former Chancellor of NYC schools to discuss how she successfully reopened the nation’s largest public school system during the pandemic, and how she’s continuing to improve public education as the president of the newly formed Bronx Community Foundation.

An introduction to Innovations in Education with David Adams. Producer Michael Palmer sits down with David Adams to discuss improving public education, and upcoming episodes with Dr. Meisha Porter, former Chancellor of New York City Schools, and Ron Berger, Senior Advisor at EL Education.