Kickoff Keynote Conversation
Hank Green
Hank Green, go-to internet science guy, and teachers' best friend, is an acclaimed #1 New York Times Best-Selling author, educator, and internet entrepreneur, renowned for his dynamic contributions to science education and science communication through his artfully produced digital media. Hank has hosted, performed in, and produced literally thousands of videos and podcasts across the internet that teachers use every day in the classroom to engage and inspire their students.
Hank is the co-founder, with his brother John, of the educational media company Complexly which produces the popular YouTube channels "SciShow," and "CrashCourse," and nearly a dozen other educational YouTube channels. He has helped revolutionize educational content delivery, engaging millions of students worldwide with his charismatic and accessible approach to complex subjects. His work extends beyond Complexly to the pioneering VidCon conference, good.store, DFTBA, and the philanthropic Project for Awesome. Hank's dedication to fostering a love of learning and curiosity exemplifies the transformative power of digital education through produced media, making him a beloved figure among teachers and learners alike.
Come to hear what Hank has to say to you, and you will also have the chance to drop your questions in the chat for him to answer LIVE!
Special Guest and Disney Imagination Campus Co-Host
Kari Byron
For nearly two decades, Kari has been a strong presence in the world of science television and art. As a student, she studied filmmaking and sculpture. As an accomplished lifelong artist, Kari dreamed of a career where she could use her hands to make and create. Her passions and talents led her to an early internship in prop making and special effects. This would ultimately turn into a ten-year run on the science entertainment show MythBusters.
MythBusters empowered Kari to explore her art through science and engineering. She used clay, wood, and metal to build models and props, challenging myths using experimentation and special effects. Throughout the show, Kari cultivated her natural curiosity, leading with the mantra, “why not.”
After MythBusters, Kari went on to host and produce shows spanning several networks, including Head Rush, Punkin Chunkin, LDRS, Thrill Factor, Strange Trips, America Declassified, The White Rabbit Project, Positive Energy and Crash Test World.
Kari's passion and advocacy for science literacy continues to be showcased as the co-director and founder of the National STEM Festival. She also continues her mission to inspire, empower, entertain and educate as co-founder and Chief Engagement Officer of the online learning platform, EXPLR.
The Full Lineup
TUESDAY, JULY 23
10AM - 5PM ET | 7AM - 2PM PT
Times below are Eastern Time
10:00AM
Keynote
Hank Green: A candid conversation with a pioneer of the digital age.
⭐️ Bring your questions for Hank to answer live!
11:00AM
Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment
Animal Science
Dive into the fascinating world of animal science with Dr. Mandy Schook and Dr. Julianna Kadar. Join us as our experts share their extensive knowledge and captivating experiences from their groundbreaking research around the world. Learn about animal behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts, and discover how to bring these exciting topics into your classroom to inspire and engage your students. This session will provide practical teaching strategies, innovative lesson ideas, and real-world examples to help you create a dynamic and immersive learning environment centered around the wonders of animal science.
11:50AM
A Panel of Experts
Exploring the Global Classroom
We will embark on a journey into the global classroom, connecting with Disney Cast Members and educators from around the world. Gain insight to help your students develop a deeper appreciation for the transformative impact of travel on confidence and cultural understanding.
12:40PM
Disney Institute
Empowering Educators: Disney's Guide to Classroom Leadership
Timo Gorner, VP of Disney Institute, helps us explore the crucial role of leadership in education. Discover how the leadership skills can transform your classroom. Takeaways include: establishing clear values and vision for your classroom, putting positive behaviors into action, sustaining a vibrant classroom culture, and creating a lasting legacy as an educator. You will leave with practical strategies and real-world examples to help you become an effective classroom leader, inspiring and engaging your students every day. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your teaching practice with insights from one of the most renowned leadership programs in the world.
1:20pm
Kari Byron
Enhancing Learning through Art
An enlightening discussion with Kari Byron, renowned television host and artist, as she explores the intersection of arts, science, and education. With a rich background in film and sculpture from San Francisco State University, Kari has captivated audiences on shows like "MythBusters" and "Crash Test World."
Learn how her artistic roots have influenced her approach to scientific inquiry and experimentation. The role of creativity in teaching other subjects, and how integrating arts into science, math and ELA can enhance student engagement and critical thinking. This session promises to inspire educators to incorporate artistic methods into their curricula, fostering a more holistic and engaging learning environment for their students.
2:10pm
University of Florida
AI in The Classroom
UF faculty from the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and the College of Education has been at the helm of designing the framework for the Florida public-schools’ AI coursework, modeling it after the National Science Foundation’s national guidelines for teaching AI in elementary and secondary schools. During this session, Dr. Ruzycki will discuss their innovative research and uncover how Artificial Intelligence can be used ethically within the classroom environment. Come ready for tons of free resources to use with your students.
Dr. Nancy Ruzycki, Associate Instructional Professor University of Florida
Juan Tovar, Classroom Teacher
Calvin McNeil, Classroom Teacher
3:10pm
Walt Disney Imagineering
The STEAM Behind Imagineering
During this panel, teachers will unlock the power of storytelling through Imagineering.
They will discover how Disney Imagineers combine art and science to tell engaging stories in a variety of spaces, including cruise ships and theme parks.
3:50pm
Disney Live Entertainment
STEAM & Disney Parks: Behind the Scenes of 'Disney Dreams that Soar Presented by AT&T'
Dive into the world of Disney's spectacular drone show and uncover the art, science, technology, engineering, and creativity that bring these captivating performances to life. Tom Vazzana and team will share exclusive insights into the design and execution of this awe-inspiring show, highlighting the intersection of artistry and cutting-edge technology. This session offers K-12 science teachers a unique opportunity to explore how to integrate similar principles of innovation and wonder into their own classrooms, inspiring students to dream big and reach for the skies.
4:50pm
Exploring Epcot’s Journey of Water: Classroom Connections
We take you on a behind-the-scenes tour of Epcot's "Journey of Water" attraction. This immersive experience offers a dynamic way to teach the water cycle, demonstrating its vital role in our ecosystem. Learn how to bring this interactive attraction's concepts into your classroom, with practical strategies and engaging activities that make the science of water relatable and exciting for your students. Empower your teaching with fresh, hands-on approaches to environmental science education.
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