In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, host Elana Leoni sits down with seasoned educator and EdTech leader Mary Beth Hertz, whose inspiring journey in education spans nearly two decades. Together, they explore Mary Beth's unique relationship with technology—from the early days of building computers to her current work as an advocate for experiential learning.
Mary Beth shares her insights into the evolution of technology in education and her passion for experiential learning, a hands-on approach that transforms traditional teaching methods. She explains how it differs from project-based learning and the profound impact it has on students in her classroom. For EdTech professionals, this episode offers practical advice on supporting experiential learning through innovative products and services, ensuring alignment with effective pedagogical strategies.
Tune in for an engaging discussion about Mary Beth's fascinating EdTech journey, the power of experiential learning, and how understanding diverse teaching methodologies can help us all better support educators and students alike. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for educators, EdTech entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about authentic, impactful education.
Questions Asked:
How did your unique career journey lead her to become a leader in EdTech and experiential learning?
What is experiential learning, and how is it different from project-based learning?
How can experiential learning connect students to their communities and the world, fostering a sense of purpose and self-efficacy?
How is experiential learning related to Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, and what sets them apart?
What are some common myths about experiential learning, and what is it not?
What are some small, actionable ways teachers can incorporate experiential learning into their classrooms without feeling overwhelmed?
How can EdTech companies better support experiential learning through mindful tools and strategies?
Why is it important for EdTech professionals to understand the nuances of experiential learning, and how can misusing the term be harmful?
How can technology help measure the qualitative, non-academic outcomes of experiential learning?
What are the lasting benefits of experiential learning for students, and how does it transform their sense of self and connection to the world?
What does Mary Beth do to recharge and find balance after dedicating herself to the intense work of education?
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Walkabout Education: Mary Beth reflected on her experience with the Walkabout experiential learning program in high school and its lasting impact on her educational philosophy. She noted that the program’s model is still available for educators to explore and implement.
Articles by Mary Beth Hertz: Mary Beth’s past articles were mentioned as examples of how EdTech professionals can better understand and support educators.
Balancing EdTech Innovation with Student Success: A Conversation with Mary Beth Hertz: Mary Beth’s first podcast episode with All Things Marketing and Education
ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education): Mary Beth discussed her journey of connecting with other educators through ISTE conferences early in her EdTech career, emphasizing how these types of gatherings help educators share strategies and learn about integrating technology.
Development in Progress: Will Richardson’s concept of "consilience," the integration of disparate academic subjects, is a key idea Mary Beth referenced to highlight how experiential learning connects different areas of learning.
Junior Achievement: Mary Beth suggested Junior Achievement as an example of a community-based program educators can leverage to bring experiential learning opportunities into their classrooms. This organization offers mentorship, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness programs.
Kathy Schrock’s Guides: Kathy Schrock was mentioned as a pioneer in educational technology, particularly during discussions about the early days of building computers and integrating technology in classrooms.
The Raven Boys series by Maggie Stiefvater – A fantasy series that Mary Beth Hertz enjoys for escapism.
The Dreamer Trilogy by Maggie Stiefvater – A follow-up to The Raven Boys, also enjoyed by Mary Beth Hertz.
Legend of Korra – The second series in the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe, which Mary Beth Hertz watches with her kids and uses to spark conversations about complex relationships and family dynamics.
Get in touch with MaryBeth: LinkedIn
Elana Leoni, Host
Elana Leoni has dedicated the majority of her career to improving K-12 education. Prior to founding LCG, she spent eight years leading the marketing and community strategy for the George Lucas Educational Foundation where she grew Edutopia’s social media presence exponentially to reach over 20 million education change-makers every month.
MaryBeth Hertz, Guest
Mary Beth Hertz has been teaching young people in Philadelphia since 2003. She has been at the forefront of technology integration in the classroom. She was a 2010 ISTE Emerging Leader, a 2013 ASCD Emerging Leader, 2013 PAECT Teacher of the Year, and is a co-founder of EdCamp Philly and the Edcamp Foundation. Her book, Digital and Media Literacy in the Age of the Internet: Practical Classroom Applications shares her experience and expertise teaching digital and media literacy in K-12 classrooms. She is also the Executive Director of Walkabout Education, championing experiential and work-based learning experience and purpose-driven experiences for young people. Mary Beth believes that young people can do more than we give them credit for and that education serves as the launch pad to young people realizing themselves and their potential in the context of the world and community they inhabit.
About All Things Marketing and Education
What if marketing was judged solely by the level of value it brings to its audience? Welcome to All Things Marketing and Education, a podcast that lives at the intersection of marketing and you guessed it, education. Each week, Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, highlights innovative social media marketing, community-building, and content marketing strategies that can significantly increase reach, relationships, and revenue.
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