Educational Equity, Remote Learning & Cognitive Empathy: An Engrossing Conversation with Educator & Researcher Matthew Davidoff

Season 1 - Episode 40

Lauren has an in-depth conversation with Matthew Davidoff, High School ESL Teacher, University of Pennsylvania Adjunct Faculty, and Freelance Education Consultant. Their discussion includes why he entered teaching, the effect of sudden (and continued) remote learning, his experiences as a school board member, his research with the Red & Blue Exchange, along with thoughts on Cognitive Empathy. 

Matthew’s passion is driven by his extreme curiosity about a world where educational equity exists. That world is possible in a well-funded, private school but not in many public schools. His goal is to be a teacher that inspires every student to be a learner.

Matthew discusses the unique struggles for both parents and teachers with remote learning caused by the pandemic. He explains and recommends:

  • For Parents: Be an advocate for both yourself and your child.

  • For Teachers: Get to know your students and what’s going on at home.

Lastly, Lauren and Matthew have an enlightening discussion about Cognitive Empathy and his effort to understand others' emotions as well as why people think the way they do. 

Don’t miss this lively discussion! Listen or watch on YouTube.

Notable Quote from this episode: 
"Nobody shows up anywhere wanting to be bad at it.”

Try-at-home tip:  Be a Feelings Detective, not a Judge. 

Guest Bio:
Matthew has been working in education for nearly 20 years. His career began in Taiwan, where he taught English as a second language for 5 years. Since then, he's worked in Oakland and Philadelphia as a teacher and educational researcher. He is currently teaching high school ESL in North Philadelphia and conducting research with the Penn Literacy Network and with Penn's Red and Blue Exchange.

Contact Matthew:

Matthew’s Recommendations

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InterviewLauren SpigelmyerComment