In today’s tech-driven world, the debate around cell phone use in schools continues to spark heated discussions. Are these devices distractions or valuable tools for learning? In this post, we’ll discuss specific strategies to effectively incorporate cell phones into classroom dynamics, ensuring they enhance rather than hinder learning.

Liz Kolb is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan. She is the author of several books, including Cell Phones in the Classroom and Help Your Child Learn with Cell Phones and Web 2.0. Kolb has been a featured and keynote speaker at conferences throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is the creator of the Triple E Framework for effective teaching with digital technologies, and she blogs at cellphonesinlearning.com.

In this episode of Learning Unleashed, Caroline Haebig brings a grounded, practical perspective to one of education’s biggest questions: how do you truly “supercharge” learning without losing sight of your students? She moves past the hype of new tools and focuses on what actually works—connecting research-based strategies with the real needs, motivations, and experiences of learners. The conversation tackles digital equity, AI, and digital citizenship, but always through a human lens. Haebig shares accessible ways any teacher can spark curiosity, integrate STEM thinking, and build student confidence. At its core, this discussion is about helping educators create classrooms where students feel capable, engaged, and genuinely invested in their own learning.

Follow on Twitter: @Haebig @ISTEofficial @Rdene915 @jonHarper70bd @shellthief @hyphenatic @bamradionetwork

Resources: Learning Supercharged \
Caroline D. Haebig has extensive experience leading and coaching teachers, instructional specialists, and administrators. Her expertise is rooted in innovative teaching, learning, and assessment practices focused on meeting the diverse needs of learners. Haebig designs, creates, and leads professional learning for educators and administrators nationwide. Some of the topics she specializes in include design thinking, selecting and implementing computer science curricula, and leveraging technology-rich environments to increase high-impact learning and engagement. She’s also the author of The Maker Playbook: A Guide to Creating Inclusive Learning Experiences (ISTE, 2021).

This year-in-review episode looks back at how AI reshaped conversations about teaching and learning, and moved from curiosity to classroom reality. This episode reflects on what educators learned about moving beyond compliance toward mastery, why students often follow rules better than they innovate, and how AI can support feedback, reflection, and trust. The conversation surfaces lessons about systemic thinking, place-conscious learning, and digital portfolios that show growth—offering a clearer, more grounded path forward for teaching in an AI-shaped future.

Related Channel: ISTE Radio | Podcast

Listen to all 2025 Mic Drop Episodes

Related ISTE Books: Today’s Learners, Tomorrow’s Leaders | Get the Book-Putting Out Fires | The National Park Classroom | Edtech for Multilingual Learners | What the Tech? | AI for School Leaders |

Available at ISTE.org