Podcast
The DIESOL Podcast | EdTech in ESL
Hosted by Brent Warner & Ixchell Reyes · EN
The DIESOL Podcast covers EdTech in the field of English as a Second or Other Language. The show helps teachers consider best practices for their English Learning students and how to integrate technology into the classroom to help students where they are.
DIESOL: Developing Innovation in English as a Second or Other Language
15episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
DIESOL 137 - Creative Thinking Strategies to Increase Productive Fluency with Sara Davila
2w ago00:36:41Tap to summarizeBrent Warner and Ixchell Reyes are joined by internationally recognized consultant and former teacher, Sara Davila, to explore how creative thinking strategies can boost productive fluency in language learners. From practical techniques like the Idea Box and reverse brainstorming to the role of AI as a creative partner, Sara shares actionable ideas teachers can use right away, whether low-tech or no-tech environment. If you've ever wondered how to move students from knowing English to actually using it with confidence, this episode is for you! Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/137
Transcribe →DIESOL 136 - Finding Ways to Incorporate Vocabulary Across the Curriculum
4w ago00:40:26Tap to summarizeIn today's episode, we're tackling a common challenge. Your students want to build their vocabulary, but your class isn't really focused on vocabulary learning. So what can you do? We're looking at simple, practical ways to weave vocabulary into any lesson, without needing to redesign your whole curriculum. From choosing the right words to helping students actually use them in real contexts, we'll share ideas you can start using right away. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/136 YouTube: www.YouTube.com/@DIESOLpod
Transcribe →DIESOL 135 - How to Be Tech-Friendly During a Tech Backlash.mp3
Apr 600:41:10Tap to summarizeWe're seeing many reports of schools banning the use of mobile devices during school hours. There are multiple articles sharing the impact that the use of mobile devices has on student academic achievement scores. Is the backlash against classroom tech justified, or are we missing something important? In this episode, Brent and Ixchell dig into the growing global movement to ban phones and devices from schools, and discuss ways for more thoughtful approach to EdTech without compromising student achievement. Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/135
Transcribe →DIESOL 134 - Trauma Awareness in the Adult ESL Classroom
Mar 1600:39:23Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Brent and Ixchell look at trauma in the adult ESOL classroom. It's a heavy subject, but it's also incredibly relevant, both right now and for anyone working with English learners. Our field serves populations who, more often than not, have experienced some form of trauma in their lives. Most instructors are not trained in trauma counseling or mental health support. Because of that, Brent and Ixchell turned to research articles and expert perspectives to help listeners better understand how educators can create supportive, responsive classroom environments for students who may be carrying these experiences. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/134
Transcribe →DIESOL 133 - IceCrushers 2026
Feb 200:30:54Tap to summarize"Find someone who," "Give your self-introduction," and "Speed Dating Classmate Interviews" are commonly used activities as ice-breakers. However, over time, these can become stale, predictable, and dreaded by both students and teachers. Fear not! A simple twist and a fresh purpose can add some spark to these activities. Better ice-breakers can promote community and rapport from day 1! Join Brent and Ixchell as they help teachers upgrade from stale icebreakers to fun icecrushers! Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/133
Transcribe →DIESOL 132 - NotebookLM for English Language Teachers
Jan 2600:32:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Brent and Ixchell talk through NotebookLM from a classroom teacher's perspective. What problems does it solve for language teachers? How can students utilize it? We look at how it works with your own lesson notes and materials, what it's genuinely helpful for, and what still needs a human touch. It's an honest conversation about where this tool fits into ELT language tasks without the pressure to use "all the things." Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/132
Transcribe →DIESOL 131 - 26 Tools for 2026
Jan 500:45:27Tap to summarizeHappy New Year!! There are lots of tools and resources to explore, and it's hard to keep on top of them all. In our annual tradition, Ixchell and Brent share 26 tools for 2026. Whether they're resource collections, useful websites, or physical items, we hope something on this list will pique your interest! Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/131
Transcribe →2025 Winter Interlude
Dec 2300:02:09Tap to summarizeNo December episodes, but we do have a message from a very special guest as we wrap up 2025! We'll be back with new episodes starting on January 5th! Happy Holidays, everyone!
Transcribe →DIESOL 130 - A Very DIESOL Thanksgiving
Nov 1700:24:20Tap to summarizeResearch shows that finding things to be grateful for actually releases dopamine and serotonin (the happy chemicals!) in the brain, which means more calmness during difficult times, resiliency, a stronger will to survive and thrive, and overall groundedness. This means we can make better decisions under stress, and who doesn't want to be better at that? Join Brent and Ixchell as they share what they're thankful for this year! Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/130
Transcribe →DIESOL 129 - When Knowing Too Much Holds You Back
Nov 300:30:38Tap to summarizeWe tend to think expertise is always an advantage, but what if knowing too much can actually hold you back? In this episode, Ixchell & Brent explore the research showing that experts can struggle with creative problem-solving in ways beginners don't. Discover why well-worn mental pathways can become traps, how automaticity makes it harder to explain what you know, and when a fresh perspective beats years of experience. Listen in for ways to open your mind back up to the "beginner's mindset" and seeing your students' learning experience with fresh eyes. Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/129
Transcribe →