In this episode of KIC Karten’s Inclusion Conversations, Toby explores the multifaceted concept of student motivation in education through a discussion with Dr. Brian Harris. The conversation highlights motivation as the force that moves students toward goals and distinguishes between intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) motivation. Dr. Harris emphasizes that while extrinsic strategies like rewards and behavior systems may produce short-term compliance, they are often ineffective for long-term growth, particularly among diverse learners. A key theme is the need to differentiate not only instruction but also behavioral supports, recognizing that students are motivated by different factors. The discussion also critiques common practices such as clip charts and misapplied PBIS systems, advocating instead for recognition over rewards and for creating conditions—such as autonomy, competence, relatedness, relevance, and curiosity—that naturally foster motivation.

Websites shared in this episode:

https://www.bryan-harris.com/

https://www.practicaledpd.com/dr-bryan-harris.html

https://www.apa.org/members/content/intrinsic-motivation

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374735098_Using_Behavior-Specific_Praise_to_Support_Intrinsic_Motivation

https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/usable-knowledge/16/09/intrinsically-motivated

https://www.apa.org/ed/schools/teaching-learning/top-twenty/disabilities/motivation

#TobyKarten #Karten’sInclusionConversations #KIC #Inclusion #Dr.BryanHarris #EducationPodcast #TeachersOfInstagram #EdLeadership #TeachBetter #K12Education #TeacherLife #StudentMotivation #IntrinsicMotivation #ExtrinsicMotivation #MotivationMatters #LearningScience #MindsetMatters #InclusiveEducation #SpecialEducation #Differentiation #EquityInEducation #AllMeansAll #ClassroomManagement #PBIS #StudentEngagement #TeachingStrategies #EdTips #PodcastForTeachers #EdPodcast #NowListening #ProfessionalLearning

For more information please visit https://inclusionworkshops.com/

In this episode of Karten’s Inclusion Conversations, host Toby Karten sits down with sixth-grade math teacher, PTA president, and parent advocate Chrissy Williams from Fort Smith, Arkansas. Chrissy shares her inspiring journey into education later in life and discusses how authentic relationships, empathy, and real-world connections help students thrive in inclusive classrooms. Together, Toby and Chrissy explore the power of “reach before you teach,” practical ways to make math meaningful through real-world application, and why inclusive strategies benefit every learner in a diverse classroom. Chrissy also reflects on her experiences as the parent of a child with autism, offering powerful insights about patience, understanding neurodiversity, and encouraging open conversations about differences. The episode highlights how educators and families can work together to build compassionate learning environments where students not only grow academically, but also develop the life skills and confidence needed to succeed beyond the classroom.

Bastian Bunny (Book) by Chrissie Williams

https://www.amazon.com/Bastian-Bunny-Chrissie-Williams/dp/1095078895

#TobyKarten #Karten’sInclusionConversations #KIC #Inclusion #ChrissieWilliams #InclusiveEducation #ReachBeforeYouTeach #Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #TeacherLife #RealWorldLearning #MiddleSchoolTeachers #SpecialEducation #TeacherPodcast #EducationMatters #InclusionMatters #TeachWithHeart #StudentRelationships #DifferentiatedInstruction #NeurodiversityAcceptance #EducationLeadership #TeacherVoices #LifeSkillsLearning #EmpathyInEducation

For more information please visit https://inclusionworkshops.com/

Toby’s conversation centers on the power and purpose of effective co-teaching, highlighting how Amber Benson and Ruby Voss—an experienced math team from Southwest Virginia—have built a nearly decade-long partnership grounded in continuous growth, complementary strengths, and shared leadership. They describe co-teaching as an evolving craft, emphasizing that great educators “teach each year” rather than repeating the same year 30 times. The duo reflects on their active involvement in professional communities such as the Association for Middle Level Education and the Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative, underscoring their belief that presenting and learning go hand in hand. They discuss how their distinct roles—curriculum development aligned with the Virginia Department of Education Standards of Learning and innovative instructional strategies with specially designed instruction—create a balanced, student-centered classroom.

I'm Determined - The home of the Determined team, who develop resources and professional learning around inclusive instruction and co-teaching practices.

Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) – Referenced in relation to professional involvement, conference presentations, and ongoing growth in middle-level education.

Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative – Mentioned in connection with their work and collaboration around effective co-teaching practices.

Virginia Department of Education – Referenced regarding curriculum alignment and the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Captivate: Engaging and Empowering Students in a World of Digital Distractions

by Dr. Marc Isseks

#TobyKarten #Karten’sInclusionConversations #KIC #Inclusion #AmberBenson #RubyRoss #Benson&Ross #CoTeaching #TeachingEachYear #EducatorGrowth #TeacherCollaboration #InclusiveClassrooms #ProfessionalLearning #MiddleSchoolMatters #TeacherLeadership #InstructionalInnovation #StudentCenteredLearning #EducationPodcast #TeacherDevelopment #CollaborationInAction #StandardsBasedTeaching #GrowthMindsetInEducation

For more information please visit https://inclusionworkshops.com/