In this special crossover episode of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast, Shé and Anna team up with Brent Warner and Ixchell Reyes of the DIESOL Podcast (Developing Innovation in English as a Second or Other Language) for a lively conversation about reflective practice—the foundation of our podcast and a shared passion between both shows.
Being a reflective educator is really a commitment to a growth mindset and to this idea of continual growth and transformation. —Anna Ciriani-Dean
Instead of Shé and Anna’s usual narrative format, you’ll hear the DIESOL style: less commentary, more conversation, and plenty of banter among all four hosts.
In Part 1, the group explores the why of reflective pedagogy and its core principles, beginning with a shared understanding of what reflective practice really means in the context of English language teaching. Reflection, as discussed, is not just about looking back on a lesson, but it also includes intentionally engaging with our teaching to uncover insights, strengthen our practice, and align our work with our values. The group examines why reflection matters—not only for teachers’ professional growth but also for students’ learning and classroom equity—emphasizing that intentional reflection can transform teaching from a routine into a meaningful practice. Finally, the conversation moves toward how teachers can move from superficial reflection, such as simply noting what went well or poorly, to deeper engagement through descriptive, conceptual, and even critical reflection that challenges assumptions and considers broader systemic and cultural dynamics.
This episode offers both philosophical grounding and practical inspiration, setting the stage for Part 2, where the conversation will dig more into actionable strategies for bringing reflection into the classroom.
🎧 Tune in to hear how reflective practice can empower teachers, shape learning experiences, and sustain professional joy—while enjoying the energy of four educators learning from each other.
Make sure to subscribe to The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast so you don’t miss out on the Part 2 drop!
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