Easy EdTech Podcast with Monica Burns

In this episode, I chat with Lori Cohen, education consultant, coach, and author of The Science of Lesson Planning , about what the science of lesson planning looks like in the age of AI. You'll also hear her human first, human last approach to using AI as a planning companion, where AI falls short, and how rituals can make planning feel sustainable instead of overwhelming. If you want to strengthen your lesson planning practice this school year, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/08/18/science-of-lesson-planning-384/ Sponsored by Work With Monica: https://classtechtips.com/events-and-workshops/ Follow Lori Cohen on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-cohen-9a447224/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Erlend Klouman Høiner, a former teacher and co-founder of WeWillWrite, and Bonnie Watson, a fourth grade language arts teacher, about making back-to-school writing something students beg to do. You'll also hear how short, live writing sessions put every student on equal footing, why building a writing routine from the first weeks of school pays off all year long, and how anonymous peer voting helps students see models of strong writing from their own classmates. If you want a low-prep way to energize writing in your classroom this school year, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/08/14/back-to-school-writing-bonus/ Sponsored by WeWillWrite: http://wewillwrite.com Follow Erlend Klouman Høiner on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erlend-klouman-h%C3%B8iner-1b23a110/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share one of my favorite ways to introduce AI images with a quick "guess the prompt" activity I've used with thousands of educators in workshops and webinars. You'll also hear an excerpt from the second edition of EdTech Essentials on three reasons to try AI images (replacing a search, upgrading old resources, and explaining complex topics), plus the tools I reach for when creating an image. If you want a simple, repeatable way to spark AI literacy conversations with your students or colleagues, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/08/11/introduce-ai-images-383/ Sponsored by Work With Monica: https://classtechtips.com/events-and-workshops/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Deborah Higdon and Dr. Chacko Abraham about father engagement and how schools can intentionally engage fathers to build stronger school communities. You'll also hear no-cost, hit-the-ground-running strategies from their new book, The Dad Difference , including the power of using father-friendly language and choosing the right communication tools to reach every family. If you want practical ideas for inviting dads into the conversation from day one of the school year and strengthening father engagement across your school community, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/08/04/father-engagement-382/ Sponsored by my Easy EdTech Club: https://www.EasyEdTechClub.com Follow Dr. Deborah Higdon on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdeborahhigdon-8194ba1b1/ Follow Dr. Chacko Abraham on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chacko-abraham-ed-d-1a734a34/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share practical ways to use AI to support student readers across content areas and in the reading classroom, from creating audio companions to designing interactive reading activities. You'll also hear how tools like AI-powered podcasts, text-to-speech, quizzes, visuals, and reader's theater scripts can help you scale support while keeping learning goals front and center. If you want to use AI to make reading more accessible, engaging, and manageable for both you and your students, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/07/28/reading-classroom-381/ Sponsored by my Easy EdTech Club: https://EasyEdTechClub.com Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share a quick introduction to vibe coding and five websites I recently built with the help of AI. You'll also hear how I used Claude, Gemini, and Google Sites to turn simple ideas into working tools without traditional coding skills. If you want to try vibe coding and create a useful website, app, or classroom resource of your own, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/07/21/vibe-coding-380/ Sponsored by Pollzy: https://pollzy.co/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Heidi Samuelson, instructional technology coach for two elementary schools in Tennessee, about how to mix and match EdTech tools for stronger, more intentional student projects. You'll also hear a step-by-step breakdown of a multi-app project using, plus practical strategies for keeping workflows simple, modeling transitions between apps, and focusing on depth over quantity. If you want ideas for combining the tools you already have into creative, purpose-driven student projects, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/07/14/edtech-tools-379/ Sponsored by my Easy EdTech Club: https://EasyEdTechClub.com Follow Heidi Samuelson on social: h ttps://x.com/swampfrogfirst Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Gene Kerns, Chief Academic Officer at Renaissance, about instructional coherence and how AI can help connect the assessment, curriculum, and practice tools that too often live in separate places. You'll also hear why having more data isn't the same as having useful data, what to look for when evaluating an AI-powered tool, and how Renaissance Intelligence aims to make personalized learning doable at scale while keeping teachers at the center. If you want to rethink how your tools and data work together so you can spend less time wrangling reports and more time with students, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/07/10/instructional-coherence-bonus/ Sponsored by Renaissance: https://renaissance.com/intelligence Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share ten easy-to-use AI prompts for families to try for everyday activities, from planning day trips and creating bedtime stories to helping with homework and weekly meal planning. You'll also hear how to model responsible AI use with your kids and customize each prompt for better results. If you're looking for simple ways to start using AI as a family, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/07/07/ai-prompts-for-families-378/ Sponsored by my Easy EdTech Club: https://EasyEdTechClub.com Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Sheila Dokken, Coordinator of Prevention and Safety for a large district in Minnesota, about how AI can support educator wellness and emotional intelligence instead of just adding more to an already full plate. You'll also hear about her PRISM framework for moving from overwhelm to clarity, plus the idea of owning your 10% and using AI as a reflective thought partner during high-stress moments. If you want to explore how AI can help educators slow down, process, and respond with intention rather than just produce more, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/06/30/emotional-intelligence-377/ Sponsored by Pollzy: https://pollzy.co Follow Sheila Dokken on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-dokken-37457429/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share practical tips for hosting a virtual book study that feels supportive, focused, and doable for busy educators. You'll also hear strategies for choosing a clear purpose, setting flexible expectations, and keeping momentum going with warm-ups, discussion prompts, and optional action steps. If you want to design a virtual book study that teachers actually enjoy and want to stick with, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/06/23/virtual-book-study-376/ Sponsored by my Amazon Storefront: http://ClassTechTips.com/amazon Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Melinda Glowacki, a supervisor at the UCI School of Education, about leading meaningful coaching discussions with educators around AI integration. You'll also hear her approach to drafting AI guidance that centers critical thinking over compliance, plus a powerful coaching move that invites educators into reflective dialogue instead of shutting down discussion. If you want practical strategies for AI conversation, building AI guidance rooted in student thinking, and communicating with families about AI too, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/06/16/strategies-for-ai-conversation-375/ Sponsored by my Amazon Storefront: ClassTechTips.com/amazon Follow Melinda Glowacki on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindaglowacki/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share four chatbot strategies for teachers to go beyond basic prompts and get more meaningful results. You'll also hear how to assign a role, refine responses through conversation, use the "ask me questions" technique, and transform existing materials with file uploads. If you want to use AI as a collaborative partner to save time and create stronger classroom resources, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/06/09/chatbot-strategies-for-teachers-374/ Sponsored by Pollzy: https://pollzy.co/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share my favorite Google Slides for teachers tips, from customizing layouts to creating interactive lessons. You'll also hear tips on using speaker notes, hyperlinking images, and designing collaborative projects to enhance student engagement. If you want to make the most of this free and versatile EdTech tool, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/06/02/google-slides-for-teachers-373/ Sponsored by Pollzy: https://pollzy.co/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Gina Tesoriero, a researcher and former middle school special education teacher, about how AI tools like ChatGPT can serve as powerful supports for students with disabilities and neurodiverse learners. You'll also hear findings from her dissertation research on how young adults with special education experiences are already using AI in creative ways, plus the unique ethical considerations that come up when thinking about AI in special education settings. If you want to understand how to approach AI in special education and start thoughtful conversations with students and families about its use, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/05/26/ai-in-special-education-372/ Sponsored by my quick reference guide Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction : https://amzn.to/42Xzds0 Follow Dr. Gina Tesoriero on social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginatesoriero/ Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share how to use AI tools to quickly create classroom infographics that make complex information easier for students to understand. You'll also hear about specific tools, practical prompt examples, and tips for designing visuals that align with your students' needs. If you want to save time while creating engaging, student-friendly visuals, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/05/19/classroom-infographics-371/ Sponsored by my quick reference guide Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction : https://amzn.to/42Xzds0 Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I share fun and engaging first day of summer activities for classroom celebrations, from interactive music activities to AI-generated designs. You'll also hear creative ideas like virtual summer trips, student goal-setting with digital tools, and storytelling with emojis. If you want to bring excitement, reflection, and EdTech-powered creativity into your lessons, this episode is for you! Show notes: h ttps://classtechtips.com/2026/05/12/first-day-of-summer-activities-for-classroom-370/ Sponsored by my quick reference guide Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction : https://amzn.to/42Xzds0 Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I chat with Charlie Huynh, Director of Teaching and Learning for OneSchool Global's North American region, about building a Learning to Learn framework that helps students take full accountability for their own learning. You'll also hear how extended learning programs like the Perfect Pitch Competition connect students across borders, how families and community members are woven in as authentic audiences, and how thoughtful curriculum design keeps both consistency and local flexibility in play. If you want ideas for scaling collaboration, embedding inclusivity, and giving students a real-world "why" for their learning, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/05/08/tips-for-connecting-classrooms-bonus/ Sponsored by OneSchool Global: https://oneschoolglobal.com Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I welcome back Suzanne Dailey, instructional coach, and introduce Robert Dunlop, middle school classroom teacher—coauthors of You've Got This: Finding Happiness and Success in Your First Years of Teaching . You'll hear practical strategies for supporting new teachers through classroom management, routines, relationship-building, and tech habits that reduce stress instead of adding to it. If you want clear, compassionate guidance for supporting new teachers as they build confidence and sustainable success, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hn83DBJq7eLQ4UXZz9RePaYvCeLi5dqcGTwXmnfI17s/edit?tab=t.0 Sponsored by my quick reference guide Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction : https://amzn.to/42Xzds0 Follow Suzanne Dailey on social: https://x.com/DaileySuzanne Follow Robert Dunlop on social: https://x.com/robdunlopEDU Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/

In this episode, I welcome back Tim Needles, STEAM teacher, K–12 Technology Integration Specialist, and ISTE author, to explore the intersection of art, technology and student voice in the classroom. You'll also hear why concepts should drive tool selection, how digital tools democratize creativity, and ways technology supports faster iteration, critique, and reflection. If you want practical strategies for using tech to amplify student storytelling and advocacy without losing the heart of the creative process, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2026/05/01/technology-and-student-voice-bonus/ Sponsored by Jotform: http://jotform.com/enterprise/education/ Follow Tim Needles on social: https://x.com/timneedles Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/