S8E1 - Augmented Journeys: Exploring Identity Through AR at Hillbrook

S8E1 - Augmented Journeys: Exploring Identity Through AR at Hillbrook

Author: Bill Selak March 4, 2025 Duration: 26:53

Episode Notes -

In the new season of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak engages with Jay Van Buren, an innovative educator in the Hub at Hillbrook, as they explore the transformative potential of augmented reality (AR) in education. Jay shares his passion for integrating AR into the learning experience, highlighting how it differs from virtual reality by enhancing our interaction with the real world rather than isolating us from it. The conversation dives into the practical applications of AR, including Jay's development of the "Selflinder" project, where fifth graders create immersive cylinders that reflect their identities. This project not only allows students to express themselves but also empowers them to design an engaging experience that others can explore. With AR, students learn to create meaningful connections to specific locations, making their projects resonate on a personal level. Bill and Jay also discuss the exciting prospects of augmented reality tours and collaborative projects with local museums, emphasizing the importance of community and storytelling in education. They touch on how AR can make learning more interactive and impactful, helping students to think critically about design and user experience. As they navigate the intersection of technology and art, this episode encourages educators to embrace AR as a tool for fostering creativity, collaboration, and deeper connections among students. Tune in to discover how Hillbrook School is pioneering innovative educational practices that prepare students for a future where AR will play a significant role in learning and community engagement. Read transcript

Read transcript



Hosted by Bill Selak, the Hillbrook School Podcast offers a genuine look inside the life of an independent school community in Silicon Valley. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a series of conversations with the educators themselves, sharing the real stories and practical insights from their classrooms. You'll hear how they translate the school's mission-to nurture a deep love of learning-into everyday practice, and what it truly means to inspire young people to reach beyond their own expectations. Each episode reflects a commitment to creating an inclusive environment that mirrors the rich diversity of the surrounding community. The discussions are grounded in Hillbrook's core values: be kind, be curious, take risks. For parents, educators, or anyone curious about thoughtful learning environments, this podcast provides a window into the challenges and triumphs of fostering student growth. Listen in for honest reflections on what works, the questions that drive their practice forward, and the small moments that define a meaningful education.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 34

Hillbrook School Podcast
Podcast Episodes
S9E1 - AI in Action: Transforming Teaching and Learning at Hillbrook [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:47
Episode Notes - Join host Bill Selak and kindergarten teacher Dana Ford as they kick off Season 9 of the Hillbrook School Podcast! This episode dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and education, e…
S7E9 - Beyond Right Answers: The Educational Power of Wrong Turns [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:45
Episode Notes - Bill Selak engages in a conversation with Clara, the Director of the Hub at Hillbrook. They challenge the stigma surrounding failure in education by advocating for "failing forward" and embracing the lear…
S7E8 - Crafting the Future: Writing as the Key to AI Mastery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:04
Episode Notes - In this thought-provoking episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak delves deep into the evolving intersection of AI, education, and the creative arts. As we navigate the burgeoning landsca…
S7E7 - Melody and Machine: AI's Musical Impact [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:06
Episode Notes - In this melodic episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak sits down with the multifaceted Derek Primo Silverman, music and "other things" maestro at Hillbrook. The conversation strikes a ha…