The "What Is Smart?" Podcast: A Journey of Discovery and Dialogue in Education
When we launched the "What Is Smart?" podcast, our aim was ambitious but clear: to ignite a broader conversation about the future of learning. We envisioned a platform that would challenge traditional notions of intelligence and education, delving into what it truly means to be 'smart' in the 21st century. What we didn't anticipate, however, was the incredible journey of learning and inspiration that awaited us, fueled by conversations with some of the most groundbreaking and visionary minds in education today.
One of our earliest conversations was with Dr. Damian Bebell, a pioneer in educational research who led the first comprehensive study on the impact of iPads on child literacy. His insights into technology’s role in education not only shed light on its benefits but also on its complexities and the need for balanced integration. Dr. Bebell’s work exemplifies the meticulous research needed to understand and harness technology's potential in enhancing learning experiences.
Then, we spoke with Chad Ostrowski, the CEO of Teach Better. Chad brought a dynamic perspective on the evolution of teaching, emphasizing the need for educators to elevate their methodologies to meet the demands of the future. His optimism for the future of education, paired with a candid call for educators to "step their game up," resonated deeply with our listeners. His message underscored the importance of continuous improvement and innovation in teaching practices.
Perhaps one of the most profound moments in our series came from Dr. Thomas Hoerr, an esteemed educational leader whose contributions to the field of social-emotional learning have been monumental. His statement, "Who you are is more important than what you know," has become a mantra for our podcast and a guiding principle for The Gardens Foundation. This powerful idea encapsulates our belief in the importance of developing well-rounded individuals who are not only intellectually capable but also emotionally intelligent, empathetic, and adaptable.
Through these dialogues and many others, "What Is Smart?" has become more than just a podcast; it's a growing community of educators, parents, policymakers, and students who are eager to redefine the boundaries of education. Each episode serves as a reminder of the diverse perspectives and innovative ideas that are driving the future of learning.
As we continue on this journey, we are ever grateful for the insights shared by our incredible guests and the enthusiastic engagement of our listeners. The road ahead is promising, and we are committed to exploring it with open minds and a relentless pursuit of understanding what it truly means to be smart in an ever-changing world.
Join us on this exciting journey at The Gardens Foundation as we continue to push the boundaries of educational thought and practice, one conversation at a time.