LEARN Podcasts

ShiftED Podcast #94 In Conversation with Timothy Shanahan: The Science of Reading, Reconsidered

On this episode of the ShiftED Podcast, Timothy Shanahan joins the conversation to unpack the evolving debate around literacy, reading instruction, multilingual classrooms, and the “science of reading.” Drawing from decades of research and his book Leveled Reading, Leveled Lives, Shanahan explores why strong reading comprehension still sits at the center of critical thinking, digital literacy, and student success. From Québec classrooms to broader global conversations about AI and education, this episode challenges educators to move beyond buzzwords and reconnect literacy instruction to evidence, knowledge-building, identity, and belonging.

ShiftED Podcast #93 Beyond the Hype: AI, Creativity, and Critical Thinking with Nicole Muñoz-Guzman

In this episode of ShiftED, Nicole Muñoz-Guzman brings a grounded perspective to artificial intelligence in Québec’s vocational and adult education settings. Drawing from her work as a pedagogical advisor, she explores how teachers are moving beyond the hype to experiment with AI in practical, meaningful ways. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and small, manageable shifts in practice. For educators feeling both curious and cautious, this episode offers a realistic look at how AI can support—not replace—thoughtful teaching and professional growth.

ShiftED Podcast #92 Change Is the Only Constant : Leading a School Board with Cindy Finn

Change is the only constant—and Cindy Finn would know. The Director General of Lester B. Pearson School Board joins Chris Colley to talk leading through chaos, the real story behind the cell phone ban, and why stress in the staffroom shows up in the classroom. Plus: the surprising reason today's students might be the most compassionate generation yet. Honest, hopeful, and packed with insight for anyone who cares about schools.

ShiftED Podcast #91 In Conversation with Amanda Bickerstaff : The Pandora's Box Problem - Why AI Literacy Can't Be Optional

AI is flooding into classrooms faster than educators can keep up — but are we actually building AI literacy, or just assuming it'll happen on its own? In this episode, Chris sits down with Amanda Bickerstaff, founder of AI for Education, to unpack why "they're already using it" isn't good enough. Amanda draws on lessons from digital literacy, the illusion of easy AI tools, and a broken assessment system that generative AI is now exposing. A sharp, honest conversation about what intentional AI literacy really looks like — and why educators can't afford to wait.

ShiftED Podcast #90 In Conversation with Mariana Brussoni: Safe as Necessary, Not as Possible

What if keeping kids too safe is actually holding them back? In this episode, Chris sits down with UBC developmental psychologist Mariana Brussoni to unpack the science behind risky outdoor play — and why scraped knees might be exactly what children need. From brain development to recess culture, this conversation will change the way you see risk, childhood, and your role in both.