The International Schools Podcast

Admissions and transition is a critical piece for international schools. How you approach these workflows, with the mindset of the school community and making it engaging is a complex and important process to juggle.   We explore with our three guests some best practices and thoughts from their respective research and work in this area. We will also explore the creative tensions impacting admissions teams and the landscape of International School enrollment across different geographic regions and types of schools.   Heidi Reid  CEO International Diagnostic & Admissions Test (IDAT) https://www.idat.org/  Masters of TESOL, Grad Dip Ed (Primary), MBA (Human Resource Management).   Educated in Canada and Australia, Heidi has worked in international education for more than 25 years in Canada, Japan, Hong Kong and Australia.  Heidi is a qualified primary school teacher with ESL specialisations and has been a spokesperson and leader for international education.  She is the founder and managing director of the International Diagnostic & Admissions Test (IDAT) and is based in Australia.   The IDAT was created as a new and different way to use admissions assessments to create a profile of incoming students to international schools, so they can be supported from their first day of learning.   https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7081626768360538112/  https://www.idat.org/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-reid-04698429/  https://www.instagram.com/idat_test/  https://www.facebook.com/IDATtest    Vasco Dimitroff  Senior Marketing Manager Admissions and School-to-Home Faria Education Group https://www.faria.org/  Masters in Marketing (University of West London)   With over 15 years of marketing experience across multiple public and private sector industries, and 5 years in EdTech, Vasco is passionate about helping international and independent schools to deliver a superior experience for students and families, staff and alumni across the entire lifecycle, from enquiry to enrolment and beyond.   In addition to driving the adoption of pioneering EdTech, empowering admissions and marketing teams to realise their mission and vision, and collaborating with Faria Education Group’s  teaching and learning business units to provide a unified solution, he is committed to growing and engaging a global community of likeminded professionals through inspiring professional development initiatives (printed publications such as the International Admissions Bulletin, webinars, in-person conferences and events).   bit.ly/Admissions-Bulletin bit.ly/School-Resources bit.ly/OA-Webinars-On-Demand bit.ly/OABenchmark bit.ly/OA-Upcoming-Events   bit.ly/Vasco-LinkedIn   Matt Craig  Manager Faria Education Group https://www.faria.org/ OpenApply Sales & Accounts   Having worked as an Education Consultant and as a school admissions professional at leading international schools in the UK, Matt has years of experience in the education sector. Matt now works with OpenApply, supporting schools looking to significantly improve their admissions experience and eliminate wasted administration time in the admission office.   OpenApply supports every key function in the admissions office, helping schools to find their best-fit students & families and in helping them optimize their admissions processes.   bit.ly/OA-Case-Studies https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcraigedu/   John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

A conversation with four international school librarians from around the globe, looking at how libraries are navigating accelerated change, amplifying the importance of information literacy,  promoting  reading, DEIJ collections and the creative tensions brought about by AI and 24/7 connectivity. Together they share their learnings and different approaches in managing a library in an international school setting, and the opportunities and challenges.   Tracey Fish Lower  School Librarian  International School of Luxembourg   Jaye Shaer Head Librarian  Western Academy of Beijing    Jaye Shaer is the High School Librarian and Extended Essay Coordinator at the Western Academy of Beijing.  Jaye has worked as an educator for more than 25 years first as an English teacher and then for the last 18 years as a Middle School and High School librarian.  She has led workshops for teachers and librarians on AI integration in schools, LGBTQIA+ representation in the library, librarians and the Extended Essay and starting a school library makerspace.   Email: jaye_shaer@wab.edu   Marion van Engelen High School Librarian Branksome Hall Asia   Marion van Engelen is HS Librarian at Branksome Hall Asia, in South Korea, and has worked as a Librarian in 8 international schools for more than 25 years. She is one of the founding members of the Shanghai Librarians Network. Marion has presented on information literacyand CIS Accreditation  at conferences and enjoys the opportunity this gives to collaborate with colleagues from all over the world. Marion tries to learn the local language of every country that she has lived in, with varying results, but it was always fun and worth the effort. She is also an experienced and qualified yoga instructor, offering classes to her colleagues and older students.   Zenlibrarian.com   Resources I love: * www.Elicit.org (although they are going behind a paywall I gather) * ChatGPT (if used in the right way, with good prompts) *Ditchthattextbook.com (great tips and templates to keep your teaching fresh, plus AI support) *Down Dog Yoga app (almost free, great app to get your daily yoga in, customisable time and level) * EE website of Branksome Hall Asia With many thanks to Jeri Hurd for creating this! If you like it, copy the site and customise to make it your own.   Kim Tyo-Dickerson  Head of Libraries & Upper School Librarian  International School of Amsterdam   Kim Tyo-Dickerson is the Upper School Librarian and Head of Libraries at the International School of Amsterdam. Kim has a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York, a Master of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She is one of the founding members of the grassroots professional learning project International Teacher Librarians Lead (inTLlead) and is committed to world libraries, literatures, and literacies. Originally from the United States, she has lived on three continents and worked in international school libraries for 17 years in Europe and Africa. Kim’s languages include English, German, and Dutch.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-tyo-dickerson/  https://isa.nl.libguides.com/isalibraries    International Librarians Lead - inTLlead.org    How We Read Now: Strategic Choices for Print, Screen, and Audio by Naomi S. Baron https://global.oup.com/academic/product/how-we-read-now-9780190084097?cc=nl&lang=en&     Also available with OC/OU lending model on OverDrive   NoodleTools Research Management Platform - “Citing ChatGPT, Bard and other AI tools” https://www.noodletools.com/blog/citing-ai/    “Artificial intelligence in IB assessment and education: a crisis or an opportunity?” https://blogs.ibo.org/2023/02/27/artificial-intelligence-ai-in-ib-assessment-and-education-a-crisis-or-an-opportunity/    “Why ChatGPT is an opportunity for schools” by Dr Matthew Glanville, Head of Assessment Principles and Pract

LeeAnne shares learnings and reflections on Service Learning  and Global Citizenship Education in schools. LeeAnne leverages storytelling as the vehicle by which educators can listen and learn from each other. Her primary focus is on helping individuals and communities use storytelling to create cultures that celebrate global citizenship and sustainability. In our conversation we explore with LeeAnne what does this look like in an international school context.About LeeAnne LavenderLeeAnne is an educational consultant, coach and facilitator for international educators. She specializes in storytelling, digital storytelling, service learning and global citizenship, and she loves partnering with schools and teachers to create learning experiences that have impact and lead to deep learning and service as action. In addition to working independently as a consultant and coach and offering a range of online courses for educators, LeeAnne is also the Service Learning Program Coordinator for the Association of International Schools in Africa and a storyteller for Inspire Citizens and PeerSphere. You can learn more about LeeAnne at https://www.leeannelavender.com/.Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeeanneLavenderLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeanne-lavender/ResourcesLeeAnne’s blog, which features numerous posts about the role and power of storytelling in relation to service learning and global citizenship: https://www.leeannelavender.com/blog A padlet showcasing a range of service learning/global citizenship examples from PreK-12 international schools, many of which feature storytelling in a variety of ways: https://padlet.com/leeanne_lavender/service-learning-global-citizenship-examples-z49z3tjrb3ioesp1 UNESCO guide: story circles and deep listening for intercultural competencies https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000370336 Impact, a grade 5 storytelling & global citizenship site designed to connect language arts & social studies curriculum to citizen journalism & action: https://sites.google.com/sasaustin.org/impact?pli=1 Citizen C, a high school site that uses storytelling to create a culture of global citizenship: https://www.concordiashanghai.org/citizenc/ginspiration Digital Storytelling: A Catalyst for Civic Readiness & Global Citizenship: A webinar with the Digital Citizenship Institute https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeESNRP5Y5s&t=1s John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube   Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Christina and Charlotte share their extensive experience as Director of Learning Innovation and eLearning and Director of Technology in International Schools in Asia, the Caribbean and Middle East. An opportunity to share their learning in these roles in an international school. Reflecting on the changing dynamics in the age of accelerated change and AI. How to manage, navigate and lead with this accelerated change in a school setting, and what are some learnings and approaches to consider for education leaders in education technology.About Christina Devitt Christina Devitt is an advocate for empowering learners with technology.  Having taught in five schools spanning three decades of revolutionary technological change, she brings experience in curriculum and technology leadership along with the implementation of two 1:1 programs to her current role as Director of Learning Innovation and Technology at The American Community School of Abu Dhabi. With an educational background in computer science and philosophy, Christina enjoys grappling with the opportunities and challenges that impact schools in our digitally connected world. Twitter: @cdevittLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/cdevittAbout Charlotte Diller Charlotte Diller has over 20 years of experience transforming teaching and learning in schools with a focus on identifying school needs, engaging all stakeholders, focusing on results and effectively planning for and utilizing current and emerging technologies to bring about systemic school improvement. Charlotte has a love for learning, a passion for play and a belief in teamwork to transform teaching and learning.Charlotte has worn a variety of classroom, leadership and technology hats including middle school science teacher, grade 6 teacher, assistant professor, technology facilitator, assistant principal, head of information literacy and staff learning, future of learning co-chair and director of technology. She has lived and worked in the USA, Hong Kong, Oman, and Malaysia. Charlotte is currently the Director of Technology at the International School of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Charlotte came to education after working in the business world in the computer and publishing industries. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, a Masters of Arts in Teaching and is an Apple Distinguished Educator (ADE). A lifelong learner and avid reader, she also enjoys kickboxing, dancing, gardening and watching K-Dramas.Twitter: @cdillerLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/cdiller/John Mikton on Social MediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmiktonWeb: beyonddigital.orgDan Taylor on social media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAEWeb: www.appsevents.comListen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTubeWould you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Carlos shares his experience coaching and working with leaders around the world, in both an international school context and corporate setting focusing on "bully leaders". Carlos shares some of the learnings, experiences from his work, and combines this with his latest book "Five Brain Leadership". Exploring how our brains are wired to impact our dispositions as leaders and how to leverage this knowledge in an international school setting.    About Carlos Davidovich   Carlos has extensive experience supporting the development of leaders and management teams alike on an international scale . Raised and educated in Argentina, Carlos has been living and working between Europe , USA and Canada for over 20 years , where he has become an Executive Coach giving workshops and lectures on Neuromanagement , applying neuroscience in organizations and businesses . Currently , he resides in Madrid working with clients from all sorts of cultures around the world Originally trained as a medical doctor in Argentina, Carlos draws on this medical background and understanding of the brain to apply Neuromanagement coaching modalities that lead to evident and sustainable change for his clients. Over the course of his early career , for more than 20 years , he has also gained management experience in business executive roles working for multinationals pharmaceutical companies in the area of Biotechnology applied to human health He is a professor of Neuromanagement in the MBA programs at the University of New York in Prague, Czech Republic, and at GEA in Ljubljana , Slovenia; a guest lecturer for the Masters in Leadership program at the Lang School of Business and Economics at the University of Guelph, and a thought leader with the Institute of Coaching at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate Co author of the book : PersonalityDNA . Discover Your True Personality”, Author of the book : “Five Brain Leadership How Neuroscience Can Help You Master Your Instincts and Build Better Teams”, January 2023. He is also an international TEDx Speaker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uhk JSgrGx0   Education Medical Doctor Degree from Argentina  Internal Medicine Residency Program at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina Clinical Psychopathology Postgraduate Diploma from the University of Barcelona, Spain Roche International Managers and Executive Development Course at Lausanne Business School Psychotherapy and Hypnosis Certification from the Erikson Institute in Madrid, Spain Tai Chi Trainer: University Las Palmas, Spain Carlos Davidovich on Social Media   Website: www.carlosdavidovich.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlosdavidovich/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ncdavidovich/     Resources Five Brain Leadership: How Neuroscience Can Help You Master Your Instincts and Build Better Teams Carlos Davidovich MD and Jennifer Brunton PhD Page Two Press (Enero 2023)   John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Small International Schools are wide spread around the world, with their size come different dynamics in the culture, structures, educator and leadership approaches, finances juggling the daily workflows and community building, Jimena, Jeremy and Michael who have started an ECIS (https://www.ecis.org/) "Intentionally Small Schools" special interest group join us and share their experiences as small international school leaders and together we explore the uniqueness of small international school and the creative tensions that come with such schools.                   Dr. Jimena Zalba  Primary Principal     The International School of Belgrade  https://www.isb.rs/   Dr. Jeremy Majeski  Principal Frankfurt International School Wiesbaden Campus https://www.fis.edu/    Dr. Michael J. Hibbeln  Director  International School of Krakow https://iskonline.org/    About Dr. Jimena Zalba    Jimena Zalba is an educational leader with over 22 years serving international schools in Serbia, Czech Republic, Romania and Cambodia. During her tenure as a school leader, Jimena has, in close collaboration with her colleagues, led the design and implementation of innovative school improvements with  high impact on student learning.  When teachers and colleagues describe Jimena, they use words such as ‘caring’, ‘change agent’ and ‘systems thinker’.  Jimena leverages these qualities and competencies to build and sustain thriving school cultures with a relentless commitment to learning and wellbeing for all members of a community.   In addition to being a transformational and constructivist leader, Jimena is a passionate and avid learner.  She holds a Masters in Education, a Post-Master’s in Educational Leadership and a Doctorate in Education (EdD) in July 2021.   Her EdD research focused on developing the professional capacity of educators in international schools.    Twitter: https://twitter.com/jimenazalba  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimena-zalba-edd-23828549/  About Dr. Jeremy Majeski   Dr. Jeremy Majeski is currently the principal at Frankfurt International School’s Wiesbaden Campus, a preschool through grade eight international school. Prior to this, Jeremy served as the elementary school principal at the American School of Barcelona as well as an elementary educator and administrator in the Chicago suburbs. Jeremy has been recognized for his work in leading efforts in making schools more welcoming for LGBTQ+ staff, students, and families.   He recently completed his doctorate in leadership in curriculum and instruction from Aurora University’s School of Education where his research focused on the experiences of gay and lesbian parents and schools. Jeremy has presented on topics of literacy, technology and leadership at conferences including the Illinois Reading Association, National Association of Elementary School Principals, District Administration and The Bett Show. In addition to his work in schools, Jeremy is an adjunct professor, teaching graduate courses in curriculum, instruction and leadership.   Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjmajeski  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jeremy-j-majeski-08693832/?originalSubdomain=de    About Dr. Michael Hibbeln    Dr. Michael Hibbeln is Director of the International School of Kraków, Poland.  Prior to his current role he served as the Elementary School Principal at Shanghai American School in Shanghai, China. Michael’s career in education has taken him to Thailand, Paraguay, the USA (Michigan), Italy, and China.  He holds a Ph.D. in Education Organizational Leadership, Policy and Development from the University of Minnesota, as well as a M.Ed. in K-12 Education Administration and Leadership from Michigan State University.   Michael's research interests lie in the factors that lead to the development of student intercultural competence in international schools. Using clear systems and frameworks that bring a school's mission to life and drive school transformation, rather t

Valérie and Jane share their work, experience and learnings with the dynamics, challenges, and opportunities of transitions for students, parents, educators and schools. Together we explore the creative tensions many international educators and students experience with transitioning between schools and cultures, and how their respective organisations support and provide resources for the positive transition-care of students, families and educators around the world.   About Valérie Besanceney Valérie Besanceney is an international education and transition consultant, passionate about helping students, staff and families thrive through transitions. Author of two children’s books, B at Home: Emma Moves Again and My Moving Booklet and founder of Roots with Boots, she currently consults for families, schools, and organizations. She is Dutch by birth, Swiss by nationality, and well-versed in cross cultural awareness. Having moved often as a child, Valérie understands the challenges and impact of early transitions on your sense of identity and belonging as an adult. Valérie has been an international educator for the past 18 years in international schools and organizations across four continents. Valérie serves as the Executive Director of Safe Passage Across Networks’ (SPAN)) and is the co-creator and co-facilitator of the SPAN certificate course on the Laws of Transitions. Together with her husband and their two daughters, she lives in Gryon, Switzerland.   About Jane Barron Jane Barron (MEd) is an educational consultant specialising in student cross-cultural transitions. Her professional hats include educator, researcher and writer. Jane’s work is informed by a lifetime of mobility, parenting two Cross-Cultural Kids and 30 years of teaching and consulting in both international and local schools. Committed to healthy cross-cultural transitions and attachment security, she has been a part of the Safe Passage Across Networks (SPAN) leadership since 2016 and is currently serving as their Director of Training and Consulting. Founder of Globally Grounded, Jane consults to schools, families and students crossing cultures, developing their understanding of the impact of cross-cultural mobility, creating programs and implementing support mechanisms to enhance learning and life. She is the lead researcher of Surveying the Landscape: Common Practices, Challenges and Opportunities in International School Transitions-Care (2020). Currently based on Garigal land in Sydney, Australia, Jane's writing has been published in numerous international education publications.   Social Media SPAN Website: Safe Passage Across Networks LinkedIn: Safe Passage Across Networks (SPAN) Facebook: SPANschools Instagram: spanschools Twitter: @SPAN_schools   Roots with Boots: Website: Roots with Boots LinkedIn: Valérie Besanceney Facebook: Valérie Besanceney   Resources A summary of different ways to connect with SPAN:  The SPAN website, for engagement with other transition-care providers, curated resources and pathways for an enhanced positive transitions-care program in your school and between schools. ‘The Nest’, to join SPAN’s free monthly award-winning online gathering for positive transitions-care practitioners and advocates, first Thursday of every month @12 UTC. The Annual Virtual SPAN Symposium, to gather together like-minded practitioners and supporters to strengthen the network of positive transitions-care across international schools The SPAN Training & Consulting team to strengthen your positive transitions-care team, policies, programs and practices. SPAN’s courses, workshops and consultancy services empower individuals, schools and school networks to transform transitions-care for their community members. Our Laws of Transitions Certificate Course, which offers research, practical strategies, and the opportunity to share best practices to enhance positive transitions-care within and between schools. Your team can also benefit from the E

An opportunity to connect with John Miller of the Agile Classroom, a next-generation learning framework, with a student-centered approach, emphasizing collaboration, communication, self-organization, and social skills . We look at the Agile classrooms approach focusing on real-world approaches that the most innovative companies in the world use brought to a classroom setting. What the structures, workflows and pedagogic strategies for educators to consider when working with this framework.  About John Miller I had worked for years as an Education Technology Director for a school district, which as a whole, wanted to move towards integrating 21st century skills within the curriculum. But what we found was that we could not change the way students learn, without first changing and modeling these 21st-century skills in the staff and teaching methods themselves. Using Agile, I spearheaded an innovative and engaging way to organize workflows with self-managed teams and quick feedback, creating a healthy and productive workplace culture that allowed for growth and prosperity. John is a Certified Scrum Trainer, Certified Enterprise Coach®, Certified Professional Co-Active Coach, ICF Associate Certified Coach, Spiral Dynamics Integral Level 2, and a Project Management Professional. When not focused on work, John loves to surf (well, wiping out more than actually surfing), spend time with his family and 2 daughters, volunteer as a life coach for students, and make insanely delicious drinking chocolates.   John Miller on Social Media Twitter: @agileschools   Website: https://agileclassrooms.com/    John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Angela and Peter educators and now entrepreneurs share their journey around the transition to starting a company focused on report writing and leveraging new AI technologies to save teachers time, improve workload and enhance the quality of feedback to students and parents. We explore why such a company, the challenges and opportunities of using artificial intelligence in delivering an educators service and learnings from the experience.   About Angela Newton   Angela  is Co-Founder of Real Fast Reports - an AI-powered  report writing tool that helps teachers to write better school reports, faster. She is an established education professional with experience across the education landscape.     She started out as a teacher, working in a range of secondary school contexts across London as a Chemistry teacher and Head of Faculty..   Alongside developing and growing Real Fast Reports, she is a policy and delivery advisor at the Department for Education, with special interest in  social mobility,  support for vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people, and early help to improve educational and health outcomes.    Angela Newton on Social Media   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/newtonangela Twitter: @newton_angie   About Peter Gravell   Peter is the Co-Founder of Real Fast Reports, an AI-powered tool that is revolutionizing school reports.    As a former teacher, timetabler, and Head of Science in top UK and international schools, Peter understands the challenges educators face. He’s also a parent of two, so he has experienced reports from a parent’s perspective.   An experienced programmer and Google Certified Innovator, Peter co-founded Real Fast Reports with Angela after recognizing the potential of GPT-3, a precursor to ChatGPT.   Based in Gran Canaria, Peter remains focused on creating innovative tools that enable educators to thrive and enrich students' academic experiences.   Peter Gravell on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petergravell    Resources Website: realfastreports.com Twitter: @realfastreports   John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Data and information have become a critical component to leading and managing international schools. Understanding the data and more importantly getting it into a format and visual representation that all stakeholders can understand and engage with comes with challenges and opportunities Chris Smith shares his experiences supporting schools, the technology  behind the data, and how this process supports schools to be agile and responsive to changes and needs of the school community.   About Chris Smith Chris is an academic data specialist for school leaders and educators. He helps them make sense of their data by turning it into information that informs effective decision-making. Chris has worked with clients such as Bedford School District, Singapore American School, Yongsan International School Seoul, Dallas Independent Schools, and Ferndale School District. He has coached and trained nearly 300 educators through his online synchronous and self-paced courses. Chris leads teams through data literacy, data visualization, and dashboard design workshops for organizations such as Apps Events and 21st Century Learning International using Google Workspace tools such as Google Sheets and Looker Studio. Chris has 25 years of experience in education. Starting off as an elementary classroom teacher for 17 years, he moved into an educational technology coaching role and eventually found himself helping others be more efficient with their work around data analysis and data literacy. Chris holds a master’s in educational leadership from California State University, data science certification from Harvard Business School, and data visualization certification from Cornell University. When not jamming out on spreadsheet formulas and chart elements, Chris can be found ascending punchy climbs and bombing down drops in the jungle on his mountain bike. Appsevents Google Looker Studio for Educators and School Leaders next cohort October 2023! More info: https://appsevents.com/looker-studio    Chris Smith on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/smithrchris  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smithvisualizations/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smithviz  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithrchris/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@smithviz    Resources https://smithvisualizations.com/  https://courses.smithvisualizations.com/  https://appsevents.com/data-studio-course    John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

100 hundred conversations, 100+ guests who have come to share their story, learning, challenges and interests. Dan and I spend a few moments reflecting on how this podcast started in June 2019, some of the themes, focus areas, and reflection of  the podcast and the times we live in. Thank you to the generosity and kindness of our guests. A huge shout out to our audience for your support and taking the time to listen, we both are most grateful. Ready for the next 100! Tune in with us!    John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Brett shares his journey founding and leading a small international school in Ostrava in the eastern part of the Czech Republic. As Director of the first IB Continuum World School in the country, Brett gives us insights to his struggles with the Czech state school system, and what he has been fighting for as a teacher and educational entrepreneur for over 30 years:  Leading a Mission-driven school at a time of great local and global change.    About Brett Gray Brett Gray is the Founder and Director of TOIS  - The Ostrava International School, Czech Republic.  Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcast Journalism and French from the University of Southern California, Brett arrived in post-communist Czechoslovakia in January 1991 with plans to write news articles about the Czech transition to democracy, and teach English on the side - for perhaps 6 months, a year at most.  Thirty-two years later he finds himself leading the only International Baccalaureate Continuum World School in the Czech Republic, and a devout believer in the principles of the IB as a foundation for education and support of Civil Society.  Over that time, Brett has confronted the challenges and opportunities inherent in creating a truly internationally accredited school in a region that desperately needs one, but doesn’t quite understand why, including;  the local, regional and national politics of Czech education; the economics  of a region transitioning out of heavy industry into an unknown future; the opening of a culture and way of thinking that had been sequestered behind the Iron Curtain for over 40 years, and on and on. Brett is also a founding member and current Board Chair of ACES - the Association of Central European IB Schools, with 43 members across 12 countries working together to implement the best of IB practices, many of whom are also facing the challenges of moving beyond the traditional approaches to education in their national systems.   Brett Gray on Social Media LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brett-gray-8b6bb4171   Facebook: www.facebook.com/TOISWORLDSCHOOL/  Web: www.tois.world Email: brett@tois.world   Resources Books: Vaclav Havel: Letters to Olga  Simon Sinek: Start with Why  Sir Ken Robinson: Creative Schools, Revolutionising Education from the Ground Up  Patrick Lencioni: The Advantage   John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Stefan and Matthew are second generation international school educators, their parents were international school educators, they both currently are international school educators and their children are in international schools The fascinating part is this is all within the same international school. We explore their experience, anecdotes, learnings and also their respective passion for music while juggling the demands of being educators, parents and musicians. Together exploring the impact of being in an international school has had on them and their families.   About Stefan Pasternak   Stef is a singer/songwriter, performer, teacher and author that lives and works in Switzerland. He has been at La Chat for 15 years under many guises and is currently an Outdoor Learning specialist and Forest School Leader for the early years. Stef’s current creative projects include Galaxy Rock duo with Matt called FLARESTAR, and writing teaching tool picture books for 3 to 8 year olds.    Stefan Pasternak on Social Media   https://flarestar.ch/   https://www.facebook.com/flarestarmusic/  https://www.instagram.com/flarestarenergy/  https://soundcloud.com/flarestarenergy  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIX2ruh-Tp1AUxiFDPer76g    Resources Latest Books Read: The Storyteller - Dave Grohl The Power of One - Bryce Courtenay Music of the Moment: Any early Genesis -  The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway Peter Gabriel - Father, Son Jojo Mayer - Jojo Mayer & Nerve LIVE - Drumeo Festival 2020 Educational Inspirations: Patrick Harrison - http://www.greenbow.co.uk/   About Matthew Welling   Matt started learning bass back when he was a student at La Chat. 25 years on this passion has expanded across numerous bands in different countries playing multiple instruments. He leads the Department of Theory of Knowledge and teaches chemistry in the upper school at La Chat. His current projects include rocking out in the duo FLARESTAR, recording ILLUCID’s third album (a band formed back in year 10 at La Chat!) and supporting students organize and play concerts at school.  The rest of his time is spent running in the Alps and hanging out with his young family.    Matthew Welling Social Media matt.welling on Instagram   Resources   Latest Books Read: The Dry - Jane Harper Harry Potter The Philosopher’s Stone - J. K. Rolwing Shadow of a Dark Queen - R. E. Feist   Music Last Played: The Doors - Morrison Hotel  Alt-J - The Dream Converge - Jane Doe Amon Amarth - Surtur rising Lamb of God - Sacrament  Rockabye baby! - Lullaby renditions of Iron Maiden    John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial

Dan and John spend time exploring the topic of Cyber Security with Dan's work with schools and organisation and John's workshops and trainings on the topic. Dan shares his presentation on Cyber Security with thoughts, reflections and strategies on a topic that often is under the radar for educators and school leaders  in International Schools. With more options and flexibility to travel, and working remotely comes with some important steps to consider to ensure the cybersecurity of your devices and use. Cybersecurity Tips for International Travelers Guide to data security for travelers. Cyber Security while traveling 2 step verification Two-step verification is a process that involves two authentication methods performed one after the other to verify that someone or something requesting access is who or what they are declared to be. How Two-Factor Authentication Works. (You can also use an app, but the phone is the most common method of using two-factor authentication.) Most forms of two-factor authentication ask you to sign in with your user name and password, and then enter a code that is sent to you via SMS. Two-factor authentication:  The best two step authentication apps for 2023 What you need to know (FAQ): Twitter's got it. Apple's got it, too. Google, Microsoft, Facebook and Amazon have had it for a while. But why's two-factor authentication important, and will it keep you safe? Two-Factor Authentication for Beginners Video How to video setting up your two step verification Explaining Two-Factor Authentication   Virtual Private Networks (VPN) and your home  VPN, or Virtual Private Network, allows you to create a secure connection to another network over the Internet. VPNs can be used to access region-restricted websites, shield your browsing activity from prying eyes on public Wi-Fi, and more Surfing the web through a virtual private network ensures that your online activities are both private and secure. VPN service is capable of keeping your private data safe from hackers, not viruses and malware. ... Well, we designed Buffered VPN to make use of 256-bit AES encryption. It's one of the most reliable encryption protocols out there. Articles How—and why—you should use a VPN any time you hop on the internet Best VPN reviews and ratings for 2023e) PC Magazine tested scores of VPN services, reviews and  considered by PC Magazine  to be the best VPN services. Video What is a VPN and How Does it Work? What is a VPN?  Anti Virus Antivirus software is a type of program designed and developed to protect computers from malware like viruses, computer worms, spyware, botnets, rootkits, keyloggers and such. Antivirus programs function to scan, detect and remove viruses from your computer. The Best Antivirus Protection for 2023 What is anti-virus software How Does Antivirus and Antimalware Software Work? Passwords According to the traditional advice—which is still good—a strong password: Has 15 Characters, Minimum: You need to choose a password that's long enough. ... Includes Numbers, Symbols, Capital Letters, and Lower-Case Letters: Use a mix of different types of characters to make the password harder to crack.  Using passwords to protect your devices and data infographic. (pdf handout) Advice and Guidance Password Guidance and Tips 8 Tips to Make Your Passwords as Strong as Possible Password manager buyers guide The best password managers for 2022 Ditch the sticky notes and get peace of mind. Smartphone security  Best mobile antivirus: how to choose a mobile security app 7 best practices for smartphone security 9-Smartphone tips for security 10 top tips for smartphone security Smartphone tips on security as you travel Additional resources The Wired guide to digital security Security.org : A 2023 Guide to Personal Digital Security & Online Safety   John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: Li

Safa and Louise from Tactical Tech showcase a few of the projects and resources focused on exploring and mitigating the impacts of technology on societies. The programs and events they organise raise awareness and encourage people to take control of their digital privacy, security, and wellbeing, with further resources to train on verification skills.   About Safa Ghnaim   Safa Ghnaim is Associate Program Director at Tactical Tech. She has contributed to and co-written materials for the Data Detox Kit and Digital Enquirer Kit projects. Prior to joining Tactical Tech, Safa specialized in adult education, among other projects.   About Louise Hisayasu   Louise Hisayasu is a Senior Project Coordinator at Tactical Tech. She works on The Glass Room project which develops exhibitions of varying formats. She has worked with partners worldwide to host, develop and localize media and digital literacy resources.   Tactical Tech on Social Media   Twitter: @Info_Activism Instagram: tactical_tech Facebook: facebook.com/Tactical.Tech Other: mastodon.cc/@info_activism/   Resources tacticaltech.org datadetoxkit.org digitalenquirer.org theglassroom.org https://theglassroom.org/misinformation-edition/ https://theglassroom.org/en/what-the-future-wants/  https://gafam.theglassroom.org/   John Mikton on Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton Web: beyonddigital.org   Dan Taylor on social media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantcz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanTaylorAE Web: www.appsevents.com   Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube   Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial