Episode:
23
guest episode
March 6, 2025
Julia Fallon: Learning Has a Vibe
Education Technology
Leadership in Education
Student Agency & Engagement
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In this conversation, Julia Fallon, the executive director of SETDA, shares her journey from growing up in Seattle to her experiences in New York City and her current role in educational technology. She discusses the importance of innovative learning environments, the role of SETDA in supporting educators, and the need for community and professional development in education. Julia emphasizes the significance of making learning relevant for students and the impact of technology on education, including the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and cybersecurity. In this conversation, Julia Fallon discusses the importance of collaboration among educators, the challenges faced by EdTech founders, and the future of education. She emphasizes the need for understanding the educational sector, creating safe spaces for learning, and the significance of foundational skills in modern education. Julia also shares her vision for a more flexible education system that values the learning process over the end product, and she concludes with a high-energy music recommendation for motivation.
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About The Guest
Julia Fallon
Julia Fallon is the Executive Director of SETDA, collaborating with U.S. state and territorial educational technology leaders to leverage technology for learning, teaching, and school operations. With over three decades of experience in learning technologies, she has driven innovation in edtech since 1989.
Under her leadership, SETDA played a pivotal role in developing the U.S. Department of Education’s 2024 National Educational Technology Plan. Julia’s dedication to advocating for equitable access to technology has earned her and SETDA various accolades and recognition within the education sector. Before joining SETDA staff in 2021, Julia worked for the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for 17 years in various program lead roles.
During the pandemic, Julia learned to DJ and live streams her mixes most Friday nights on Twitch. She holds a master’s degree in educational technology from Pepperdine University and a bachelor’s degree in business education from New York University.
Under her leadership, SETDA played a pivotal role in developing the U.S. Department of Education’s 2024 National Educational Technology Plan. Julia’s dedication to advocating for equitable access to technology has earned her and SETDA various accolades and recognition within the education sector. Before joining SETDA staff in 2021, Julia worked for the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for 17 years in various program lead roles.
During the pandemic, Julia learned to DJ and live streams her mixes most Friday nights on Twitch. She holds a master’s degree in educational technology from Pepperdine University and a bachelor’s degree in business education from New York University.
The Importance of a Classroom’s Vibe
Introduction to the Episode and Julia Fallon’s Role in EdTech
Julia’s Background and Where She’s Based
Overview of SETDA and Its Role in EdTech Policy
Growing Up in Seattle and Moving to New York City
Cultural Shifts and Musical Influences from New York
Childhood Play and Early Fascination with Technology
Learning to Use Early Computing Tools at NYU
How a Professor Sparked Her Career in Technology
Earliest Memory of Loving to Learn
Most Inspiring Innovations in Education
Breaking Away from the 1950s Factory Model of Learning
What Great Classrooms Look, Sound, and Feel Like
The Need for Student Agency and Inquiry-Based Learning
The Role of SETDA in Connecting Policy and Practice
Addressing Cybersecurity, AI, and Digital Equity in Schools
How Teachers Can Adapt to Technology in the Classroom
How SETDA Builds Community and Professional Development
Policy, Legislative Work, and Collaboration Among States
Generative AI in Education and State-Level Responses
Working with EdTech Companies to Ensure Equity and Security
Advice for EdTech Founders Entering the Education Space
The Challenge of Procurement and Equity in Small Districts
A Look Into the Future of Education—Flexibility and Innovation
The Political Challenges Facing Public Education
If She Had a Magic Wand, What She Would Change in Education
The Importance of Learning in Public and Embracing Failure
Rethinking Assessment—Focusing on Process Over Perfection
Foundational Skills vs. Memorization in a Digital World
Julia’s Music Recommendation: High-Energy DJ Set by Gorgon City
Podcast Closing and Acknowledgments
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Jason Buccheri is a Podcast Host & Edtech Strategist, sharing insights on education, technology, and innovation while building impactful industry connections.
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