In this episode of The Writing Glitch podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Joe Houghton, a remarkable educator, photographer, and University College Dublin Innovation Academy fellow. Our conversation delved into the evolving landscape of education, particularly in the context of the digital classroom and the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion:

Embracing the Challenges and Opportunities of Digital Classroom

Joe shared his experiences with the sudden shift to online teaching due to the pandemic. He emphasized the importance of adapting to this new environment and finding innovative ways to engage students. By incorporating tools like breakout rooms, Kahoot, and Mentimeter, Joe has created dynamic and interactive learning experiences for his students.

The Power of Storytelling in Education

Both Joe and I are strong advocates for storytelling as an educational tool. Joe’s approach to teaching involves using stories to make complex concepts more relatable and memorable for students. This technique enhances understanding and fosters a deeper connection between educators and learners.

Prioritizing Accessibility and Inclusivity in the Digital Classroom

A significant part of our conversation focused on the importance of accessibility in education. Joe’s journey with his son Danny, who has dysgraphia and hypermobility, highlighted the need for educators to be aware of and accommodate diverse learning needs. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and accessible technology ensure all students have equal opportunities to succeed.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Practices

The pandemic has undoubtedly been a catalyst for change in the education sector. Joe and I discussed how it has prompted educators to rethink traditional teaching methods and embrace more flexible and inclusive approaches. The shift towards online learning has opened up new possibilities for innovation and underscored the importance of adaptability in facing challenges.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Education

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the education landscape will continue to evolve. The experiences and lessons learned during the pandemic will undoubtedly shape teaching practices for years. Educators like Joe Houghton are at the forefront of this transformation, leading the way in creating engaging, accessible, and effective learning environments for all students.

In conclusion, my conversation with Joe Houghton was a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity of educators in the face of adversity. His insights into remote teaching, storytelling, and accessibility are valuable lessons for anyone involved in the field of education. As we navigate the ever-changing world of learning, it’s clear that adaptability, innovation, and inclusivity will be vital to empowering students and shaping the future of education.

Notable Quote from Joe Houghton:

“As educators, we have to pick up on these cues from mainstream media and build this stuff into what we’re doing. Having a visual eye for photography also translates into all the other education. And then, hopefully, I’ll bring in, as I’ve done in the last couple of years, a little bit more awareness of accessibility. Because again, that was a bit of a moment for me when one of my students came up to me and said that he had dyslexia.”

Contact Joe: Linked In
The Plus One Podcast

Learn more about dysgraphia and its impact on storytelling at Dotterer Dysgraphia Method.