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
S7E6 - Art, Activism, and the New Renaissance: A Hillbrook Story [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:10
Episode Notes - Join host Bill Selak, Director of Technology at Hillbrook School, for an engaging and lively discussion with two special guests, both named Vanessa. In this episode, Vanessa Fernandez, Program and Researc…
S7E5 - Bringing Student Dreams to Life [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:15
Episode Notes - In this episode of the Hillbrook School podcast, host Bill Selak engages in a one-on-one conversation with Martin, the Hub Engineer at Hillbrook. Martin shares his unique journey from aspiring designer to…
S7E4 - Creative Visions: Art Education as a Career Catalyst [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:39
Episode Notes - In this episode, art teachers Laura and Susie join host Bill Selak to discuss how visual arts education enhances creativity and imagination in ways that benefit every profession. From amusing elementary s…
S7E3 - Harmonizing Curriculum: The Interdisciplinary Power of Music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:57
Episode Notes - Explore how music education is not just an isolated subject but can be integrated into other areas of the curriculum. Hear about real-world examples from Hillbrook where music has been used to enhance lea…
S7E2 - Designing the Future: The 12 C's of Student-Centered Learning [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:30
Episode Notes - In this episode, Director of Technology Bill Selak sits with Hub Director Clara Ngo to discuss the evolving landscape of education and the importance of design and engineering. They explore how the "Four…
S6E3 - AI in Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:02
Episode Notes - We all know that (discussions of) artificial intelligence is taking over the world... one robot at a time. At Hillbrook, we've always pushed what's possible with the latest technologies, especially when i…
S6E2 - The Artist's Lens [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:10
Episode Notes - Join Director of Technology Bill Selak as hit talks with performing arts teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and ceramic arts teacher Laura Hale about the Artist's Lens. Analogous to a scientific lens/bias,…
S6E1 - Let the Drama Begin at Hillbrook [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:05
Episode Notes- Performing Arts Teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and Art Teacher Susie Heeter sit down with Bill Selak to talk about the inaugural 4th grade drama performance. Hear about the collaborative process of crea…