Unlocking Student Engagement: Insights from Discovery Education

Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping the future of education—Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and Educational Technology Trends. Nicole Santora from Discovery Education joins the conversation to discuss student engagement in the classroom. She explores why educators lack a shared definition of engagement and the challenges teachers face in creating engaging lessons. The discussion includes insights from administrators, the role of emotional engagement, and the need for professional development. Nicole emphasizes building strong relationships with students and highlights how instructional coaches support teachers. The conversation closes with a look at future directions in education and ongoing efforts to improve student engagement. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

• Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
• Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
• Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:

• Educators lack a shared definition of student engagement.
• Engagement sits at the heart of education today.
• Teaching is one of the most challenging professions.
• Emotional engagement is essential for effective learning.
• Fewer than half of students feel engaged in school.
• Learning is inherently messy and takes time.
• Strong student relationships are the foundation of engagement.
• Ongoing professional development helps teachers refine their practice.
• Instructional coaches are key to supporting teacher growth.
• Teachers need space to experiment and develop their skills.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Student Engagement
• 00:58 Insights from Discovery Education
• 01:13 Introduction to Student Engagement
• 03:51 Defining Student Engagement
• 06:44 Challenges in Classroom Engagement
• 09:37 Insights from Administrators
• 12:59 The Role of Emotional Engagement
• 15:54 Generational Perspectives on Engagement
• 18:45 Professional Development for Teachers
• 21:49 Strategies for Instructional Coaches
• 24:40 Collaboration and Classroom Dynamics
• 27:48 The Importance of Learning in the Classroom
• 30:45 Conclusion and Resources

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• https://www.discoveryeducation.com/education-insights/

About our Guest: Nicole Santora Nicole Santora is Discovery Education’s Instructional Strategy Director, where she serves as an instructional leader and systems strategist dedicated to advancing equitable learning outcomes through evidence-based design, professional learning, and cross-functional collaboration. She specializes in upholding instructional integrity across...