This episode of The Inquiry Oasis we dive into the REEDS (Research on Educational Equity and Diversity in STEM) Fellowship Program at the University of Arizona College of Education. Funded by a significant NSF grant, this initiative aims to reshape STEM education through research focused on creating inclusive and diverse learning environments. The episode features conversations with the first cohort of REEDS fellows - Drs. Abby Rocha, Sy Simms, Nicholas Witt, and Shakuntala Devi Gopal - who share their individual research projects, personal inspirations, and experiences in transitioning from graduate students to postdoctoral scholars. They reflect on the intersection of STEM, diversity, and education, and discuss how their work contributes to a more equitable academic landscape.

Topics Discussed:

• Cultivating Culturally Affirming Mathematics Curriculum
• Equitable STEM Access for Marginalized Learners
•  Institutional Diversity and Sense of Belonging
• Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in Higher Education
• Challenges and Opportunities of Postdoctoral Transition
• Role of Personal and Professional Identities in Academic Research
• Impacts of Research on Policy and Practice in Higher Education

Recommended Books/Papers:

• Funds of Knowledge for Teaching: Using a Qualitative Approach to Connect Homes and Classrooms by Luis C. Moll, Cathy Amanti, Deborah Neff, Norma Gonzalez
• The Professor Is In by Karen Kelsky
• On Being Included, Racism and Diversity in Institutional Life by Sara Ahmed
• Reading and Writing the World with Mathematics: Toward a Pedagogy for Social Justice by Eric Gutstein 

In this episode of Inquiry Oasis, we delve into the fascinating world of cognitive processes in education with Dr. Jonathan Tullis, Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Arizona College of Education. Dr. Tullis, a prominent figure in the Cognition and Memory in Education and Learning Lab, shares insights from his groundbreaking research on the interaction between memory and learning environments, with a special focus on "Remindings." We explore his NSF-funded CAREER grant and its implications for optimizing learning strategies, aligning them with our natural cognitive tendencies. Dr. Tullis’s work is a critical beacon in understanding how cognitive processes shape effective learning environments, contributing significantly to the field of educational psychology.

Topics Discussed:

• Journey to the Forefront: Dr. Tullis’s Path in Educational Psychology
• The CAMEL Lab: Pioneering Research in Cognition and Memory
• The Essence of 'Remindings': Transforming Educational Strategies
• Cognitive Environments and Learning: An Intersecting Realm
• Memory Optimization: Strategies for Effective Learning
• Unearthing Discoveries: Surprises in Cognitive Research
• Future Visions: Integrating Cognitive Principles in Education

Book Recommendation:

• Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning – by Peter Brown, Henry Roediger, Mark McDaniel

The Oregon State Beavers pulled off an upset on their own homecourt over No. 9 Arizona behind 53 points (17-25) combined from their dynamic duo Tyler Bilodeau & Jordan Pope. 

What else caused them to drop this game? What is going on with Arizona? Why can't they closing games out against inferior opponents?  

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The University of Arizona dropped a bombshell on us all on Monday night.. 

Dave Heeke is out as Athletic Director. 

What happened? Who will they get to replace him? It all remains to be seen but we talk about that and where to go from here. 

Then one of the greatest days to be an Arizona Wildcat took place on Saturday.. 

Noah Fifita and Tetairoa McMillan announced they are coming back to Arizona with the entire team on the court in McKale Center! We talk what it means, Brent Brennan, closing thoughts on Jedd Fisch, and recap something incredible from the Men's Basketball team... coming back from down 19 points to win against UCLA! 

Truly an unforgettable day. 
BTFD.  

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In this episode of Inquiry Oasis, Dr. Adai Tefera, an associate professor of special education at the University of Arizona's College of Education delves into her pivotal research on racial disparities in special education, examining the complex interplay of race, disability, language, and other social factors. We take a look at Dr. Tefera’s article she co-authored in the American Educational Research Journal - The Aftermath of Disproportionality Citations: Situating Disability-Race Intersections in Historical, Spatial, and Sociocultural Contexts, and explore the historical, socio-cultural, and spatial contexts shaping educational policies and their impact on students with disabilities. Dr. Tefera's insights illuminate the urgent need for transformative changes in educational equity and policy-making.

Topics Discussed:

• Navigating Intersections: Race and Disability in Education
• A Deeper Look: Disproportionality in Special Education
• Methodological Insights: Uncovering Systemic Inequities
• Breaking New Ground: Key Findings from Dr. Tefera's Research
• The Construct of Defectcraft: Rethinking Disability and Race
• Unveiling Histories: The Impact of Past Policies on Present Practices
• Shaping Futures: Implications for Education in Diverse Communities

Resources:

• Disability and Difference in Global Contexts: Enabling a Transformative Body Politic – by Nirmala Ervelles
• Toward an Interdisciplinary Understanding of Educational Equity and Difference: The Case of the Racialization of Ability - By Alfredo Artiles

In this episode of Inquiry Oasis, host Jeffrey Anthony talks with Dr. Ji Hong a professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Arizona's College of Education. The central theme centers around Dr. Hong's research on multiple marginalized and underrepresented teachers. We explore the challenges these teachers confront, emphasizing the role of intersectional identities in shaping both their personal and professional experiences. Dr. Hong underscores the necessity of qualitative research methodologies in capturing the depth and nuance of these lived experiences. By doing so, she argues for a reevaluation of educational systems to better support and understand marginalized teachers. 

Topics Discussed:

• The Significance of Identity: Understanding the experiences of multiple marginalized and underrepresented teachers.
• Methodological Choices: The role of qualitative research in capturing complex lived experiences.
• Intersectionality: How intersecting identities complicate the challenges faced by marginalized teachers.
• Educational Systems: Critiquing current practices and policies that perpetuate inequality and marginalization.
• Personal Narratives: Dr. Hong's journey into this line of research and its relevance.
• Real-world Implications: The direct effects of teacher marginalization on educational quality and student well-being.
• Future Directions: Dr. Hong's vision for a more equitable and inclusive educational landscape.

Recommended Paper

Can educational psychology be harnessed to make changes for the greater good? By Francesca Lopez

Other Resources:

Wellbeing under threat: Multiply marginalized and underrepresented teachers’ intersecting identities by Ji Hong and Dionne Cross Francis

In Episode 52, Michael and Julian talk about

1.     Tucson.  Michael may not be able to pronounce it and hasn't been there, but Julian tells him that he should visit it on one of his next trips.

2.     Lewis & Clark. We talk about two of America's great explorers. 


Other Show Notes
Learn more about how America's culture developed in Julian Bishop's High, Wide, and Handsome.

Learn more about America's future in Julian's second book, Are We There Ye

Today’s podcast includes: does a high tuition price indicate a high quality college?, ugly enrollment increase announcements, Lyon College (AR) wants to build a vet school and dental school, Fitch ratings continues to frown on higher education finances, a story out of Pittsburgh, and 2 more colleges try sports as a financial lifeline.

Here is the link to get this podcast sent to your inbox.

Show note story links:

Lyon College still plans to build veterinary, dental schools despite property deal falling through

Lower Tuition Growth Prospects Will Constrain Some US Higher Ed Margins

CLIFF-HANGER: Local universities are grappling with enrollment challenges that are poised to worsen  (This one is behind a pay firewall.)

Fontbonne University thought football could boost enrollment. Half the team left instead.

Northern Kentucky University adds 6 new sports seeking enrollment growth, balanced budget   (This one is behind a pay firewall.)

2023 Product links

Parent's College Viability app

2023 Faculty & Staff College Viability app - Essentials

2023 College Viability Suite for Private and Public Colleges

2023 Executive Analysis College Viability app

In this episode of the Inquiry Oasis, host Jeffrey Anthony sits down with Dr. Sunggye Hong, a leading faculty member at the University of Arizona's College of Education, who is breaking new ground in the realm of accessible science education for the visually impaired. Dr. Hong elucidates the transformative possibilities that lie at the intersection of assistive technology, multisensory approaches, and STEM curricula. Their conversation takes us on a journey from the barriers of traditional educational paradigms to the frontiers of inclusivity, revealing how Dr. Hong's work is not merely about accommodation, but about redefining the very fabric of educational experiences. Tune in to discover an inspiring narrative that challenges us to think differently about the role of technology and sensory diversity in shaping a more equitable academic landscape.

Topics Covered:

• The Evolution of Assistive Technology
• The Significance of Multisensory Learning
• The Role of Planetary Science in Inclusive Education
• Navigating the Barriers to Accessibility in STEM
• The Impact of High Expectations on Students with Visual Impairments
• Dr. Hong's Personal Journey and Motivations
• Community Benefits of Inclusive Research at the University of Arizona
• Future Horizons: Dr. Hong's Vision for Assistive Technologies

Book Recommendation:

• Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law by Haben Girma

We talk about the deplorable state of graduation rates in American Colleges.

My friend, Kate Colbert offers these analogies:

"Buy this car. There's a 50% chance it won't even run 4 years from now."

"Just $1,100 for the new iPhone. No warranty. If it arrives dysfunctional, try rebooting it for 4 years and then we'll tell you we're sorry it didn't work out."

"Spent $250,000 on a house and paid your insurance premiums and then it burned down? Oh, yeah -- sorry about that. Nothing we can do. Maybe homeownership just wasn't for you. It isn't for everyone. I'm sure it made you feel more well-rounded while it lasted, though. And that's a priceless investment."

The   College Viability Manifesto

1. College is good. Really good.  Go if you can.
2. Graduation is better.
3. Some colleges will not survive.  Many will.
4. Only consider colleges in comparatively good financial health
5. Your FAFSA tell colleges about your finances.  The College Viability App show you theirs.
6. Enrollment trends matter. Graduation rates matter even more.
7. Popularity indicators are important.
8. Closing colleges will cost you A LOT of money. 
9. Support higher education in the United States. It makes a difference in lives.

Here are the links to stories from today's podcast show:

Can Free Graduate Tuition Boost Undergrad Enrollment?

Small Colleges Turning To These Tuition Deals To Boost Enrollment

Hundreds Of Colleges Now Offer Automatic Admission To Students   

Multnomah University to Merge Into Jessup University

Fontbonne University mulls cuts amid plummeting enrollment, Revenue

Bradley University looks to cut over 20 programs and 68 faculty positions

U. of Arizona Has a ‘Major Problem’ With Finances, Its President Says

UW-Green Bay considers discontinuing programs, citing student demand and budget constraints

Birmingham-Southern lands potential $5M investment to keep college open   

(Columbia – Chicago) College addresses recruitment, retention amidst faculty strike

In this captivating episode of the Inquiry Oasis we explore the fascinating journey of Dr. Corey Knox. Dr. Knox, newly appointed as the Deputy Director at the University of Arizona’s Astrobiology Center, shares her unique trajectory from education researcher to her role in this new center. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Knox illuminates the profound ways in which science interacts with local communities and cultures and reveals the interconnectedness of astrobiology with urgent global issues such as climate change. Knox’s reflections on her time at the College of Education and its vibrant community are as enriching as her insights into education as a tool for liberation. This episode is a must-listen for those intrigued by the confluence of science, education, and social equity.

Topics Discussed:

• The mission and vision of the University of Arizona's Astrobiology Center
• Interdisciplinary nature of astrobiology: Combining astronomy, biology, humanities, and indigenous knowledge
• Relevance of astrobiology to understanding and addressing climate change
• Connecting astrobiology discoveries with lived human experiences across cultures
• The foundational role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in astrobiology and education
• Incorporating Tucson's local community histories and innovative practices in educational initiatives
• Educators as facilitators: Bridging various disciplines in the university
• Influence and significance of Dr. Knox's recommended readings on her worldview
• Education as a tool for individual and societal liberation: Insights from 'Pedagogy of the Oppressed'

Books:

• Life on Other Planets: A Memoir of Finding My Place in the Universe by Aomawa Shields
• Pedagogy of the Oppressed by Paulo Freire

In this episode of The Inquiry Oasis, host Jeffrey Anthony speaks with Dr. Valerie Shirley and Dr. Jeremy Garcia, co-founding directors of the Indigenous Teacher Education Program (ITEP) at the University of Arizona College of Education. The discussion meticulously dissects the ITEP framework, philosophy, and its consequential impact on Indigenous students, schools, and communities. Exploring topics that range from the program's origins to its broader socio-cultural implications, the episode weaves a compelling narrative that underscores the need for culturally attuned and community-based approaches in education.

Topics Discussed

• Indigenous Epistemologies: The Knowledge Systems Guiding ITEP
• Philosophical Underpinnings: The Ideological Foundation of ITEP
• Cultural and Community Context: ITEP's Grounding in Indigenous Communities
• The Role of Ceremonies and Cultural Practices in Indigenous Education
• Intersecting Identities: Navigating Multiple Cultural Spaces in Education
• The Pedagogical Journey: Academic Paths and Influences of Drs. Shirley and Garcia
• ITEP's Impact and Future: Addressing Challenges and Charting New Directions

Recommended Books

• Indigenous Methodologies: Characteristics, Conversations, and Contexts by Margaret Kovach
• Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies, Teaching and Learning for justice, Justice in a Changing World by Django Paris
• Red Pedagogy: Native American Social and Political Thought by Sandy Grande

Comic books... they can teach chemistry! Dr. Colleen Kelley from the University of Arizona has created an amazing set of comic books designed to help students of many ages understand chemistry and become molecular literate.

Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education

About Dr. Colleen Kelley

Dr. Colleen Kelley is the Creator and Founder of Kids’ Chemical Solutions which is a comic-book-based curriculum for kids ages 8 – 108. Her journey as a chemist began at The University of Richmond where she received her B.S. in Chemistry.  She fell in love with the world of discovery and research and wanted to continue to explore more chemistry, so she completed her Ph.D. in chemistry at Penn State University at the age of 24.  

Fast forward 30 years later to the tail-end of her career teaching chemistry at the University of Arizona, Colleen finds herself captivated by the question, “Why do my students think chemistry is SO hard?” What she has discovered is that learning chemistry is very much like learning how to read and she created the term Molecular Literacy to describe how chemistry is best understood. 

https://kidschemicalsolutions.com/
YouTube 

Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education

With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world!

https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/

Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? 

Share it!

The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON )

http://www.aeon.net.au/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comic books... they can teach chemistry! Dr. Colleen Kelley from the University of Arizona has created an amazing set of comic books designed to help students of many ages understand chemistry and become molecular literate.

Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education

About Dr. Colleen Kelley

Dr. Colleen Kelley is the Creator and Founder of Kids’ Chemical Solutions which is a comic-book-based curriculum for kids ages 8 – 108. Her journey as a chemist began at The University of Richmond where she received her B.S. in Chemistry.  She fell in love with the world of discovery and research and wanted to continue to explore more chemistry, so she completed her Ph.D. in chemistry at Penn State University at the age of 24.  

Fast forward 30 years later to the tail-end of her career teaching chemistry at the University of Arizona, Colleen finds herself captivated by the question, “Why do my students think chemistry is SO hard?” What she has discovered is that learning chemistry is very much like learning how to read and she created the term Molecular Literacy to describe how chemistry is best understood. 

https://kidschemicalsolutions.com/
YouTube 

Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education

With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world!

https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/

Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? 

Share it!

The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON )

http://www.aeon.net.au/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John recounts his time as a member of Comedy Corner, U of A's long-running college comedy group.

The Book of John on Substack

©2023

After months and months of no media rights deal from the Pac, the one presented was not enough after many failures on top of it. The Arizona Wildcats say thanks but no thanks and go to the Big 12 to be reunited with Arizona State,  Utah, and Colorado. Oregon and Washington also jumped to the Big Ten. Is the Pac dead, or will there be a comeback? What happened? How does the move to the Big 12 effect Arizona? 

Bear Down! 

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Episode three of the three-part series "The Economy: Inflation, the Fed, and You." 

Inflation in America is happening for the first time in forty years, but different parts of the country are experiencing inflation differently. How do the ways in which we measure price increases, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), contribute to regional variances in inflation? What role do rising housing costs play? And do certain types of inflation cause more pain than others? University of Arizona economist George W. Hammond joins Liam Julian, director of Public Policy at the Sandra Day O'Connor Institute, for a discussion. Hammond directs the Economic and Business Research Center in the Eller College of Management. A specialist in econometric forecasting for more than two decades, he has designed, built, and used economic models to produce more than 100 forecasts for state and local economies and completed more than 50 regional economic studies on topics including economic and workforce development, energy forecasting, and the impact of higher education on human capital accumulation.

You can find us at: https://oconnorinstitute.org/

Follow us on:

• Twitter
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Join Ryan Friedline, Director of Game Presentation and Fan Engagement at The University of Arizona, as he shares his insights on creating electrifying sports event experiences. In this episode, Ryan Friedline emphasizes the importance of fan engagement in shaping unforgettable events.  Friedline believes that students' contributions to athletic events create a vibrant and unique campus culture, and leaders should empower student collaboration in events whenever possible.

Explore what it takes to craft a dynamic sports event, and learn how athletic departments can leverage student culture to create lively and exciting events and enhance community on this episode of The Leading Edge Podcast.


READ MORE Leading Edge Content on Ryan Friedline HERE

LEARN MORE about Ryan Friedline HERE

Twitter: @FriedlineRyan
Instagram: @Ryan.Friedline

For more content and conversations to help you build a successful program, visit www.leadingedge.online 

Caleb Love is an Arizona Wildcat and it's exciting, but nerve-racking, but exciting nonetheless. What kind of player will he be at Arizona? Well some changes will need to be made in efficiency, but the talent is there to stand out at Arizona. 

We also talk about Frank Vogel to the Suns and how to feel about retaining Kevin Young, adding David Fizdale, and what to do with Deandre Ayton. 

Also had to talk about the insane PGA/LIV Tour merge that broke every retiree's television because it was on every single news channel possible. Absurdity. 

Finally I give a shoutout to the Arizona Wildcats Baseball team. 

BearDown! 

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