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How to Use Data to Drive Real Change in Schools

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GduxJVcet8c Too often in schools, valuable data sits in silos — locked in spreadsheets or isolated within specific departments. But what happens when we use that information to fuel collaboration rather than just reporting? That is the focus of the Data in Schools Conference . We are gathering educators to explore how we can move from “data-rich but information-poor” to truly actionable, team-based decision-making. This isn’t just about complex algorithms. It’s also about: Breaking down silos: Creating systems where insights are shared across grade levels and departments. Fostering teamwork: Using data as a neutral starting point for difficult conversations about student support. Real-world application: Learning from peers who are already using data to drive tangible improvements in teaching and outcomes. If you are looking for strategies to harness the power of data for the benefit of all students — and want to connect with a community doing the same —...
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The First Secret of Design: What a $12 Haircut Taught Me

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  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgvHMrQ6Vq8 Deion Sanders famously said, “If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good.” I felt that extra boost after getting a fresh cut, but as I sat in the chair, I realized I was walking away with more than just a haircut—I was witnessing a masterclass in design. The place was K-Cuts here in Singapore. At first glance, it’s a budget option: 10 to 15 minutes, cost-effective ($12 SGD), and no-frills. But when I looked closer, I saw that everything was designed with extreme intention. I noticed the payment kiosk that eliminated queue friction. I saw the individual closets for customer belongings, the UV sterilizers for tools, and the ingenious vacuum system at the floor base that let stylists sweep away hair in a second. This wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about removing every non-essential barrier to create efficiency for both the customer and the employee. Design is Problem Solving We often confuse "design" w...
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Singapore Pro Wrestling? The Ultimate PBL & STEM Experience?

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  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dPwynLRQMo "Cheeseburger Kid." Known for his agility and daring aerial maneuvers, his performance was a masterclass in athleticism, theatrics, and storytelling. As I watched the spectacle unfold—from the high-flying moves to the intense rivalries—I had a thought: What if a group of students decided to create their own wrestling entertainment event? If safety and student well-being were the top priority, I believe this would be the ultimate Project-Based, Transdisciplinary Learning experience. Authenticity in Design : I love designing learning experiences that are as authentic as possible. To hone this skill, I often examine real-world projects to see how academic knowledge is applied to produce a tangible outcome. A wrestling event is the perfect case study. It all starts with a Challenging Question: “How might we produce a wrestling entertainment event for the community?” This central focus motivates students to engage in sustained inquiry...
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Reflecting on Creating a STEM, PBL, Design Thinking Program

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oe9bv9w5-o0 In this conversation, Joyce Pereira and I dive into the innovative KoLAB program —a unique STEM and project-based learning (PBL) initiative that blends transdisciplinary pedagogy with real-world challenges. I share insights into the program's foundational principles, including its focus on authentic contexts and applied learning practices, while we explore its impact on students and educators alike. We also discuss thoughtful strategies to breathe new life into the program, from aligning with community needs to integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainability goals. Whether you're an educator, program designer, or STEM enthusiast, this episode offers inspiration and actionable recommendations for creating transformative learning experiences. Let’s reimagine the future of STEM and PBL education together! Joyce Pereira inkedin.com/in/joycelourencopereira
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Sneakers, Streetwear, and .... Teaching? What Jeff Staple Taught Me as an Educator

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null  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvovLzwA-1g This pair of sneakers is one of the favorites in my collection. It’s not just the fit or the look; it’s the story behind them. This New Balance collaboration was designed by Jeff Staple, the founder of Staple Pigeon and a creative force I have admired for years. Jeff is legendary for the 2005 Nike Pigeon Dunk, a release that effectively birthed modern sneaker culture and the "campout" phenomenon. But beyond the hype, Jeff is a master communicator. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to meet him at Sneaker Con Singapore. It was a surreal moment to see someone so influential be so authentic and down-to-earth. Reflecting on his work, here are four lessons from Jeff that have shaped me as an educator. 1. Message and Medium Jeff uses streetwear to express the grit and hustle of New York City. He realized that a t-shirt allows "mad people" to see his message on the subway, unlike art hidden in a gallery. I try to m...
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Reflections on Design Thinking: Power, Privilege, and Practice

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVOlS5mUjHk I was honored to learn that a Design & Technology Book Club selected my book as their featured read for the month. It is always a privilege to engage with fellow educators who are passionate about innovation, and the members sent over some truly thought-provoking questions regarding the text and how my perspective has evolved since its publication. I wanted to share those questions and my responses with you here, as they sparked some deep reflection on my own journey with Design Thinking. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion. Has the Vision Changed? : A common question was whether my view of Design Thinking has evolved. The short answer is yes. While I still believe it is a powerful, human-centered toolkit for navigating a world of constant change, I’ve realized that Design Thinking is only as effective—or as harmful—as the person using it. As designer Jennifer Daniel noted, "Design is not good unto itself. D...
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Turning Students into Product Development Chemists? Magic of Project-Based Learning PBL

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  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaZ0COelJ34 Project-Based Learning (PBL) has a unique power: it makes learning come alive. It transforms abstract standards into essential tools for solving real problems. I recently experienced this firsthand while collaborating with educators Mary Kate Burke, Matt Kish, and Sean Smith on a Grade 5 science unit rooted in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The Challenge: Hand Sanitizer Shortages   We started with a real-world problem. During a time of panic buying and empty shelves, we posed a driving question to our students: “How might we create our own hand sanitizer for our classmates due to shortages?” This wasn’t just about mixing chemicals. It was about becoming product development chemists. By framing the unit this way, we created a learning narrative  — a story where the students were the heroes and the science standards were the tools they needed to succeed. Empathy & Design Thinking   Before mixing anything,...
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