1. Brian Johnson: How to teach ‘for’ students, not ‘at’ them
Big Idea: Educators should prioritize student engagement by teaching for students, fostering active participation rather than passive reception.
In his talk, Brian Johnson emphasizes the importance of shifting from traditional lecture-based teaching to a more interactive approach that centers on students’ needs and perspectives. He argues that by creating a classroom environment where students feel heard and involved, educators can enhance learning outcomes and foster a deeper connection to the material.
2. Melonie D. Parker: Advice for leaders on creating a culture of belonging
Big Idea: Cultivating a sense of belonging within educational institutions is crucial for student success and well-being.
Melonie D. Parker discusses strategies for leaders to foster inclusive environments where every student feels valued and connected. She highlights the role of empathy, active listening, and intentional community-building in creating spaces where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals can thrive academically and personally.
3. TED-Ed: Why you procrastinate even when it feels bad
Big Idea: Understanding the psychological roots of procrastination can help students develop better study habits and overcome academic delays.
This TED-Ed animation delves into the science behind procrastination, explaining how the brain’s limbic system and prefrontal cortex interact to influence our decisions. By recognizing these internal battles, students can implement strategies to manage procrastination, such as setting clear goals and creating structured routines.
4. Kim Preshoff: Population pyramids: Powerful predictors of the future
Big Idea: Analyzing population pyramids can provide valuable insights into future societal and educational needs.
Kim Preshoff explains how demographic data visualizations, like population pyramids, can forecast trends that impact education systems, such as shifts in student populations and workforce demands. Educators and policymakers can use this information to adapt curricula and resources proactively.
5. George Zaidan: We can prevent the next epidemic
Big Idea: Education plays a pivotal role in preparing society to prevent and respond to future epidemics.
George Zaidan emphasizes the importance of scientific literacy and public health education in mitigating the spread of diseases. By incorporating comprehensive health education into school curricula, we can empower individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions during health crises.
6. Gitanjali Rao: A young scientist’s guide to problem-solving and innovation
Big Idea: Encouraging innovation and problem-solving skills in students can lead to meaningful societal contributions.
Teen scientist Gitanjali Rao shares her approach to identifying problems and developing innovative solutions, highlighting the importance of fostering creativity and critical thinking in education. Her methodology serves as a blueprint for integrating innovation-focused learning in classrooms.
7. Swati Popat Vats: Storytelling: A full brain workout
Big Idea: Storytelling is a powerful educational tool that engages multiple areas of the brain, enhancing learning and retention.
Swati Popat Vats discusses how incorporating storytelling into teaching methods can make learning more effective and enjoyable. By stimulating imagination and emotional connections, stories can help students grasp complex concepts and foster a love for learning.
8. Adora Svitak: What adults can learn from kids
Big Idea: Adults can gain valuable insights by listening to and learning from children’s perspectives.
In her talk, Adora Svitak challenges the notion that wisdom is exclusive to adults. She advocates for more reciprocal learning environments, where adults take children’s ideas seriously and use their natural curiosity and creativity to shape a more innovative educational landscape.
9. Alix Generous: How we can use the internet to treat mental illness
Big Idea: Digital tools can expand access to mental health education and support for students around the world.
Alix Generous discusses how technology can help bridge the mental health gap in education, particularly for students with limited access to in-person care. Her talk underscores the need for scalable, stigma-free digital platforms that can teach, support, and connect young people dealing with mental health challenges.
10. Valerie Kaur: 3 lessons of revolutionary love in a time of rage
Big Idea: Education can be a force for social transformation through the practice of empathy, justice, and love.
Valerie Kaur shares her framework of ‘revolutionary love’ and how it applies to teaching, activism, and leadership. She encourages educators to embrace love as a public ethic—loving others, opponents, and ourselves—to create classrooms that are safe, transformative, and socially aware.
TeachThought’s mission is to promote critical thinking and innovation education.
