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“EdTech has this great potential if we design for inclusion of mind, if we involve users of diverse backgrounds in what we develop to create more equitable learning experiences.” - Christine ReichAn important part of data equity is making sure that you have the data that you need to make equity-based decisions and to think about the design of the learning experience from a universal design standpoint at the very beginning of a project. Furthermore, formative evaluation and the inclusion of diverse audiences during development is essential. In this episode, Christine Reich discusses the evaluation strategies she’s used and how they’ve helped her bring more equity to data science.Christine shares strategies and learnings from years of developing universally designed exhibits. One of her recent projects while at the Museum of Science was “Mission: Mars,” a Roblox gaming experience based on real NASA data that tasks students with designing and building a rover to explore and survive on Mars. The development team wanted the game to be inclusive of people with disabilities and partnered with AbleGamers for expert feedback on ways to make the game better for gamers with disabilities. Christine also discusses how formative evaluation and the inclusion of diverse audiences in development is essential in order to achieve end results like greater participation in STEM. Furthermore, she shares the importance of culturally responsive evaluation practices around data equity and recommends resources like those from the American Evaluation Association.Today, Christine serves as Chief Executive Officer and Senior Research Officer at Knology, a non-profit research organization whose mission is to produce practical social science for a better world. She also teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Education where she leads a course in which students evaluate real-world projects and collaborate with for-profit and non-profit organizations to improve educational programs and products.“It's not just about who's included in the data set but how we actually think about the collection of data and making sure that those practices are ones that are honoring and respecting the diversity of lived experiences that exist in our society.” - Christine ReichRecommended Resources from the InterviewMuseum of ScienceMission: MarsAbleGamersAmerican Evaluation AssociationKnologyAbout Our GuestChristine Reich is an educator, social science researcher, and former museum executive who has moved fluidly between research and practice throughout her career. As Knology’s CEO and Senior Research Officer, she is responsible for directing the organization’s research agenda and the transdisciplinary team of researchers who work collaboratively to develop new insights into the complex social challenges of our times. Prior to Knology, Christine worked at the Boston Museum of Science for over 25 years, serving in a variety of leadership positions, including the Founding Director of the Museum’s Research and Evaluation department (one of the largest of its kind in the world), and most recently, as the Jane and Payson Swaffield Chief Learning Officer. In addition, Dr. Reich is an Adjunct Lecturer for Education in the learning design, innovation, and technology program at the Harvard University Graduate School of Education.

Online learning is becoming increasingly popular and offers many benefits to learners. With online learning, the sky’s the limit - students can learn anytime, anywhere. In this episode, Ami Dave-Patel, discusses online learning and combining the power of gameplay and personalized instruction for long-term student success. As a seasoned Online Instruction Manager for CodeCombat Live Online Classes, Ami is driven by a passion for inspiring young minds to explore the world of programming through a gamified approach. She leads a dedicated team of instructors from around the globe, fostering a collaborative environment to deliver best-in-class learning experiences. As part of training teachers to teach online, Ami encourages instructors to build a connection and establish trust with their students. She discusses the importance of empathy and the 5 C's: connection, critical thinking, creative thinking, communication, and collaboration. She recognizes that her team of global instructors bring a wealth of culture to online classes and their diverse perspectives empower students to think differently and expand their horizons. Furthermore, Ami shares her thoughts on how online learning can be integrated into formal school programs and how it could transform EdTech and the field of education. Ami firmly believes in the power of imagination, education, and the transformative impact of technology. With a genuine enthusiasm for teaching and an unwavering commitment to student success, Ami strives to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment where young learners can flourish and unleash their full potential.“To inspire children/students around the globe to be more than they thought they could be.” - Ami Dave-PatelRecommended Resources from the InterviewSchedule a Free Live Online Class: https://codecombat.com/parentsAbout Our GuestAmi Dave-Patel is a mom, wife, and entrepreneur. She is originally from India and has called America her home for the past 22 years. Ami is also a south asian community leader who is connecting youth with ancient cultures and encourages learning through human connection and various languages, arts, and yoga. She holds Masters in business administration along with sustainability and computer science. Ami has worked in various industries including: Health Care, Advertising and Marketing, Information Technology, and EdTech over the course of the past two decades. Ami is a founding educator for online classes at CodeCombat. Currently she serves as an Online Instruction Manager at CodeCombat and oversees online classes, which includes hiring and training instructors.