Eight years ago, A.J. Juliani and I launched the Design a School on Mars challenge. This year, we decided to update the challenge with new supports and a new process based on what we have learned in our continued PBL and design thinking journey. We... The post Get the FREE Design a School on Mars Challenge! appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

In my last article, I described how deeper learning functions as a solution for distraction. But this week, I want to address one of the very real challenges of deeper learning systems, like project-based learning and inquiry-based learning. In particular, what about the problem with... The post Designing PBL to Decrease Cognitive Load appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

Artificial Intelligence can feel overwhelming. With so many tools and strategies, you might be wondering where to start or what to do. But I actually think that before we integrate AI into our lessons with students, we should ask some critical questions that will guide... The post Seven Questions to Ask Before Having Students Use AI Tools appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

In my last article, I described the need for focused learning. It was the kick-off to a series I’m called The Concentration Code. This week, I explore how we can design systems and structures that support sustained, focused work and deeper learning. Listen to the... The post Designing Systems that Reduce Distractions and Improve Focused Learning appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

It’s no secret that students are distracted. When I conduct workshops and deliver keynotes, I like to ask teachers about their successes and their current challenges. Overwhelmingly, teachers describe the challenge of teaching to a distracted generation of students. I see a similar pattern when... The post Why Focused Work Has Become an Essential Skill in a Distracted World appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

We’ve all been there before. You’re working with a few other people and everything just seems to click. It might be on a ball field or court. Or it might be in a jam session or a rehearsal for live theater. If you’re lucky, it... The post The Five Biggest Pitfalls of Collaborative Grouping (And How to Avoid Them) appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

I love to come up with project ideas. The brainstorming process feels a bit like going to a candy store, where I get to peruse past experiences, seek out new interests, find materials, and feel inspired by whatever pops up. Or better yet, it’s more... The post How do you come up with great project ideas? (Four Starting Places) appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

Note that this isn’t simply the question, “How will AI change teaching in the future?” This starts with the question, “How is AI already changing the teaching profession?” Listen to the Podcast If you enjoy this blog but you’d like to listen to it on... The post AI Won’t Replace Teachers But It Will Transform Every Aspect of the Job appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

Machine learning is changing our world in profound ways. It will impact the way we learn and the way we teach. In today’s article and podcast, I want share a few big ideas on what that might look like. I’ll share some questions we might... The post How Will AI Transform the Teaching Profession? Four Trends to Consider appeared first on John Spencer ..read more

Perfectionism often creeps in because we buy into the wrong story about what it means to be a teacher. In this week’s article, I share two different stories that ultimately lead to either burnout or sustainability. The Dangerous Allure of the Superhero Narrative Subscribe to... The post Campfires or Fireworks? Which Story Will You Choose? appeared first on John Spencer ..read more