Our EKC Global Chats series is a space for sharing, asking for support, and brainstorming together.

Each month, we will tackle a different hot topic in literacy with an expert in the field, and then join in some global camaraderie and discussion. It's free to join!

Chat: September 21 | 10:00-11:00am EST

Around the world, educators are rethinking what it really means to engage students. Rather than reserving explicit instruction for moments when students struggle, many are making it a central pillar of their practice.

In this global chat, author and international educator Dr. Zach Groshell will unpack why attention is the first ingredient in effective teaching, what research helped him embrace a more explicit approach, and how well-crafted explanations support working memory.

Facilitators

Erin Kent

Erin Kent consults with international schools around the world. She helps teachers and administrators grow customized approaches to PK–12 literacy that fit an international school’s unique context. Erin taught literacy for many years in urban, independent, and international schools before becoming a literacy coach and then P–12 Director of Curriculum and Instruction where she led a team of 13 instructional coaches and advised K–12 administrators on establishing data-based educational initiatives. Erin has spoken many times at Columbia University Teachers College in New York City and at international conferences on Readers’/Writers’ Workshop methodology, literacy coaching, curriculum development, and literacy leadership.

Zach Groshell

Zach Groshell, PhD is a highly distinguished teacher, instructional coach, and education consultant. Zach is based in Seattle, WA and works with schools nationwide and internationally to develop high quality instruction based on the science of how kids learn. Zach is the author of the book Just Tell Them, hosts the podcast, Progressively Incorrect, and is active on Twitter (@mrzachg) and his blog, educationrickshaw.com. Zach began his career in education as an elementary school classroom teacher. After teaching in a variety of schools and contexts, he became increasingly interested in what research studies have shown to work. He is now an internationally recognized, highly requested educational consultant in the science of learning, explicit instruction, instructional coaching and school improvement.