Join me for this episode of Just Schools as I have a fascinating conversation with Shaun Brooker, a former rugby player turned school leader from New Zealand!
Listen in as we explore Shaun's journey into education, driven by his experiences at youth camps and his love for motivating students to push their limits. Shaun sheds light on his role in developing user-friendly systems for teachers, emphasizing the importance of meaningful engagement over mere busy work.
The discussion also touches on the strategic use of technology in education, with Shaun sharing insights into a game plan approach to identify and address students' individual needs. Furthermore, Shaun provides a glimpse into the unique aspects of the New Zealand education system, including the freedom to design classroom spaces and the integration of Christian truths into the curriculum.
I hope that you will join us as we dive into the nuances of education, engagement, and the distinctive features of New Zealand's educational landscape.
To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.
The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.
Be encouraged.
Timestamps:
[0:37] - Today’s guest is Shaun Brooker!
[1:35] - Shaun's journey into education, inspired by youth camps, reflects a passion for motivating and teaching children.
[2:56] - Shaun, shaped by rugby in New Zealand, took his passion overseas, playing and coaching various sports.
[4:54] - Shaun advocates for user-friendly systems, prioritizing meaningful student engagement to ensure every classroom moment is purposeful.
[6:48] - Shaun's game plan prioritizes individual recognition, zone of proximal development, and relational strategies for engagement.
[8:47] - Shaun emphasizes the effectiveness of the game plan in addressing student engagement, leading to positive outcomes.
[10:33] - Shaun draws parallels between church engagement and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection and human elements in learning.
[13:23] - Shaun emphasizes the shift from knowledge to wisdom, highlighting the importance of a meaningful relationship with Christ and responsible technology use.
[14:57] - Shaun aligns the SAMR model with a matrix for purposeful education technology integration.
[17:33] - Shaun raises the bar for students by creating an engaging album, emphasizing meaningful technology use.
[18:45] - I underscore education in wisdom tied to God, and I emphasize tech as tools for growth.
[21:02] - Shaun values the New Zealand curriculum's flexibility, enabling teachers to tailor lessons based on competencies.
[23:15] - Learn about New Zealand's education system, which is funded by taxpayers and fosters engaging, contextual learning.
[27:02] - Shaun identifies Erin Meyer's The Culture Map as the best book he read in 2023.
[27:49] - Hear the best advice and the worst advice that Shaun has heard as an educator.
[29:18] - What encourages and gives hope to Shaun about education in the future?
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Jon Eckert: @eckertjon
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Books Mentioned: