The Education Table with Katie Novak, EdD

Ep 31: When Choosing the “Easy” Option Is Responsible

In this episode of The Education Table, Dr. Katie Novak examines a common concern with choice: students gravitating toward what is perceived as the “easy” option. She explains that this often happens for two reasons. Either the options are not truly aligned to grade-level standards, or students have not been explicitly taught how to use the options or supported with appropriate scaffolds.Drawing on research and real-world examples, Dr. Novak explores why students often choose pathways that feel predictable or manageable, particularly when uncertainty is high. Rather than offering choice and hoping students make good decisions, she emphasizes the importance of teaching the options, clarifying the goal, modeling workflows, and offering scaffolds that support learning without becoming requirements. When goals, success criteria, and reflection are made explicit, students are better positioned to choose options that provide the right balance of support and challenge. In this episode, you will learn: * How to scaffold choice so students don't choose the "easiest" option * The importance of aligning choice to grade-level standards * How Additional resources to explore: * Episode transcript [https://www.novakeducation.com/hubfs/Podcast%20-%20The%20Education%20Table/Podcast_Episode_31_Transcript%20(1).pdf] * Related blog [https://www.novakeducation.com/blog/when-choosing-the-easy-option-is-responsible]

Ep30: UDL Isn’t Just for Classrooms: It’s for Small Groups, 1:1 Moments, and Everyday Life

In this episode of The Education Table, Dr. Katie Novak explores how Universal Design for Learning extends far beyond whole-class teaching. She emphasizes that UDL is a mindset for every interaction, regardless of whether you are a teacher, paraeducator, specialist, or counselor. Katie shares practical ways adults can create emotionally safe, predictable, and flexible interactions that honor learner identity and reduce barriers while still meeting firm goals, no matter the setting. Her message is clear: UDL isn’t just for classrooms: it’s for life. In this episode, you will learn: * * Why UDL matters just as much in small groups, mentoring, and 1:1 interactions as it does in structured lessons * * Simple shifts adults can make to reduce stress, offer choice, and honor learner identity * Practical ways to design interactions with variability in mind, even outside the classroom Additional resources to explore: * View episode transcript [https://7288705.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/7288705/Podcast_Episode_30_Transcript.pdf] * Read corresponding blog [https://www.novakeducation.com/blog/udl-isnt-just-for-classrooms-its-for-small-groups-11-moments-and-everyday-life]

Ep29: How Paraeducators Build Independence Through Universal Design for Learning

In this episode of The Education Table, Dr. Katie Novak spotlights the essential role paraeducators play in supporting inclusive classrooms. She shares practical ways paras can support learners without building dependency. Grounded in UDL principles, the conversation emphasizes that when paraeducators shift from “helping individuals” to “supporting the classroom ecosystem,” all students benefit. You’ll Learn * The critical role paraeducators play in delivering inclusive instruction * How UDL can help paras move from task-based help to strategic learner support * Practical communication routines paras can put in place today * Ways to build student agency by fading adult support over time View the episode transcript [https://7288705.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/7288705/Podcast_Episode_28_Measuring_What_Matters_Transcript.pdf] Additional resources to explore: * Read: How Paraeducators Building Independence through Universal Design for Learning [https://www.novakeducation.com/blog/ep29-how-paraeducators-build-independence-through-universal-design-for-learning]

Ep28: Measuring What Matters

In this episode of The Education Table, Dr. Katie Novak explores one of the most common questions educators face when implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL): How do I know if it’s actually working? Through stories, research, and practical strategies, Katie unpacks how to assess growth and improvement in inclusive classrooms. She emphasizes that UDL isn’t about perfection—it’s about steady progress and reflection over time. Listeners will walk away with clear guidance on identifying meaningful evidence of impact beyond engagement, focusing on student outcomes and authentic growth. You’ll Learn * How to identify meaningful evidence of impact when implementing UDL practices. * Practical ways to collect and reflect on data to guide inclusive teaching decisions. * How to shift your focus from perfection to progress when designing for all learners. If you find today’s episode to be interesting or insightful, please share it with one or two educators in your life! Your recommendation is one of the best ways to spread the word and to help fellow educators improve their practice. And to learn more,  to access the transcript and resources: https://www.novakeducation.com/blog/ep28-measuring-what-matters-looking-beyond-test-scores For more strategies and resources, sign up for our twice a month newsletter: https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up

What’s One Routine I Can Redesign Right Now? Redesign Classroom Routines with UDL

If you’ve ever lost the first 10 minutes of class to chaos, stress, or blank stares you’re not alone. In this episode of The Education Table Podcast, Katie Novak,EdD shares how you can get started transitioning your classroom with Universal Design for Learning by starting small. You’ll learn one routine you can redesign right now.  Novak shares her personal experiences with Do Nows as a middle school teacher and emphasizes the importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. By focusing on flexibility, accessibility, and collaboration, educators can create a more engaging and supportive learning environment for all students. You'll learn: * Focus on one routine at a time to help create manageable and effective changes in your classroom and teaching practice * Embrace repeated routines as a pathway to reduce cognitive load for students. * The research behind inclusive routines and why they matter If you find today’s episode to be interesting or insightful, please share it with one or two educators in your life! Your recommendation is one of the best ways to spread the word and to help fellow educators improve their practice. And to learn more, head to the ⁠show page⁠⁠ [https://www.novakeducation.com/episode-27-start-here-one-way-to-redesign-classroom-routines-with-udl] to access the transcript and resources:  [https://www.novakeducation.com/the-education-table-scaffolds-when-and-how-to-use] https://www.novakeducation.com/episode-27-start-here-one-way-to-redesign-classroom-routines-with-udl [https://www.novakeducation.com/episode-27-start-here-one-way-to-redesign-classroom-routines-with-udl] Key moments: * Redesigning Learning for Inclusivity * 2:37 - The Power of Routines in Education * 5:22- Implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Strategies * 8:14 Final advice For more strategies and resources, be sure to ⁠sign up for our newsletter⁠. [https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up] Twice-a-month, we’ll deliver the latest updates and tips for creating learning environments where all learners can thrive.  Sign Up: ⁠https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up⁠ [https://info.novakeducation.com/newsletter-sign-up]