Episodes

  • Generation Alpha: Keeping Gen Alpha Engaged - Motivation, Attention & Real-World Learning
    Aug 14 2025
    In the final episode of our Generation Alpha series, we explore the heart of modern classroom challenges: how to engage students with shorter attention spans and tech-shaped expectations. Our expert guests unpack the neuroscience of motivation, the power of chunking and multimodality, and the role of gamification—both its benefits and its pitfalls. Discover practical strategies for boosting attention, fostering intrinsic motivation, and co-creating learning experiences that resonate with Gen Alpha. Plus, we dive into the importance of growth mindset, real-world relevance, and how to involve parents in meaningful ways. A must-watch for educators navigating the evolving landscape of 21st-century learning. For more insights and practical strategies, explore Erika Galea and Olga Sayer’s book Generation Alpha in the Classroom: New Approaches to Learning—a neuroscience-informed guide for teaching today’s learners - > https://oxelt.gl/4lkXtwU
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    32 mins
  • Generation Alpha: Teaching in the Age of AI - Gen Alpha, Tech & the Evolving Role of Educators
    Aug 14 2025
    In the third episode of our Generation Alpha series, we tackle the intersection of technology, AI, and education. Discover how Gen Alpha’s relationship with tech affects attention spans, emotional regulation, and classroom engagement. Our guests share insights into the evolving role of teachers—from content deliverers to facilitators of metacognition and emotional intelligence. Learn how to use tech meaningfully, avoid overstimulation, and build deeper connections with students in a rapidly changing educational landscape. For more insights and practical strategies, explore Erika Galea and Olga Sayer’s book Generation Alpha in the Classroom: New Approaches to Learning—a neuroscience-informed guide for teaching today’s learners - > https://oxelt.gl/4lkXtwU
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    31 mins
  • Generation Alpha: Are Gen Alpha Losing Social Skills? Teaching Empathy in a Hyper-Digital World
    Aug 14 2025
    In episode 2 of our Generation Alpha series, we explore the social side of Generation Alpha—how they connect, communicate, and collaborate in a digital-first world. Our guests unpack the neuroscience behind empathy, mirror neurons, and emotional development, revealing how online interaction impacts offline social skills. Learn practical strategies for fostering face-to-face communication, empathy, and emotional regulation in the classroom. This episode is a must-listen for educators navigating the complexities of teaching socially aware but digitally immersed learners. For more insights and practical strategies, explore Erika Galea and Olga Sayer’s book Generation Alpha in the Classroom: New Approaches to Learning—a neuroscience-informed guide for teaching today’s learners - > https://oxelt.gl/4lkXtwU
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    25 mins
  • Generation Alpha: Who Are Gen Alpha? Understanding the Students of Tomorrow
    Aug 14 2025
    In this eye-opening episode of Talking ELT, we dive into the defining traits of Generation Alpha—students born into a world of digital immersion and rapid change. Our expert guests explore how Gen Alpha's brains are neurologically wired for fast-paced, tech-driven learning, and how their dopamine-driven motivation and cognitive flexibility shape classroom behavior. Discover how educators can adapt to these shifts, redefine their roles, and harness Gen Alpha’s strengths for more effective teaching. Perfect for teachers, parents, and education professionals seeking to understand the future of learning. For more insights and practical strategies, explore Erika Galea and Olga Sayer’s book Generation Alpha in the Classroom: New Approaches to Learning—a neuroscience-informed guide for teaching today’s learners - > https://oxelt.gl/4lkXtwU
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    33 mins
  • Concept-based Inquiry: How To Adopt This Approach In The Classroom
    Apr 22 2025

    In this episode, we look more closely at what it actually means in practice to adopt a Concept-based Inquiry approach, and when it’s most appropriate. This includes a lot of practical advice on how to get started with this, if this is something new to you.

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    29 mins
  • Concept-based Inquiry: What Are The Benefits?
    Apr 14 2025

    In this episode, we focus on why you should consider making use of the Concept-based Inquiry approach. We look at the benefits to the students, as well as what it means for the way the teachers engages with them in the class. This leads on to the question of whether this approach helps teachers better manage the diversity of learners in their classes.

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    20 mins
  • Concept-based Inquiry: How Does It Work When Teaching A Language Like English?
    Apr 8 2025

    In this episode, we look at how a Concept-based Inquiry approach works when teaching a language, such as English. We go into more detail about BICS and CALP, and even the concept of Common Underlying Proficiency. We also discuss how this relates to the use of the students’ L1 in the classroom.

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    21 mins
  • Concept-based Inquiry: What Does It Really Mean?
    Mar 31 2025

    In this episode, we discuss what Concept-based Inquiry really means, and how it relates to other inquiry based learning approaches. We also look at the use of ‘generalisations’ or Big Questions at the heart of the approach.

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    34 mins