IB Unplugged

What happens when we take one of the most influential voices in education research and ask: how does this actually show up in the classroom—and in the tools we build? We sat down with Kognity Learning Experience Designer Melanie Snow to unpack what “Visible Learning” really looks like in practice. From feedback and inquiry to the role of AI and EdTech, we explore how research-informed teaching translates into real learning experiences.

What if the key to better learning isn’t doing more—but knowing what works best? In this episode, Professor John Hattie, the architect of Visible Learning, challenges IB educators to move beyond “innovation fatigue” and focus on the practices that have the greatest impact on student achievement. Drawing on decades of research synthesizing thousands of studies, he explores how educators can better understand their impact—and use that knowledge to improve learning outcomes.

Paul La Rondie pulls back the curtain on the less visible processes that shape both assessment and curriculum. From the moment a student submits their IA to the publication of the next curriculum guide, there’s an intricate system of moderation, review, and refinement at work. Drawing on his work as a Principal Moderator, senior examiner, and IB workshop leader, he walks us through the journey of an IA—from submission to moderation—and explains how consistency, fairness, and academic integrity are maintained across the system. We also explore how the IB Mathematics curriculum is reviewed and updated, highlighting the research, collaboration, and decision-making that inform curriculum changes over time.

In this special IB Unplugged Live episode recorded at the African Education Festival in Johannesburg, Amy Sarr Fall invites IB educators to explore what it means to lead and learn through the philosophy of Ubuntu — the idea that “I am because we are.” Drawing on her work in human rights, civic engagement, and education across Africa and globally, she challenges dominant narratives of competition and individual achievement, and reimagines education as a force for community, collaboration, and shared responsibility.

What does it take to build high-quality teaching and learning? Temitope Ray-Odekeye joins us to explore the role of curriculum leadership and instructional coaching in driving meaningful, sustainable improvement in your school. We unpack how school leaders can move beyond vision statements to align curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment, while building cultures where teachers feel supported, challenged, and empowered.

We’re flipping the script! In this special anniversary episode of IB Unplugged, co-hosts John and Courtney sit down—not with a guest, but with each other—to reflect on one year of podcasting, amazing conversations, and unforgettable IB insights. And of course, it wouldn’t be a celebration without a few laughs: expect some rapid-fire questions, fun facts, and friendly banter.

Following our recent conversation with Dianne Blackburn on UDL and the IB Approaches to Learning, this mini episode of IB Unplugged continues the discussion by exploring what inclusive design looks like in action. Learning Experience Designer Wayne Wright shares how UDL principles are embedded into Kognity’s instructional framework and offers practical examples of how teachers can apply these strategies in their IB classrooms.

In this International Women’s Day episode of IB Unplugged, we bring together voices from across the Kognity team to share honest reflections on leadership, representation, and growth in education and edtech. This conversation celebrates the women shaping our community — and the responsibility we all share in amplifying their impact.

What if inclusion wasn’t something we added on—but something we designed for from the very beginning? Dianne Blackburn joins us to explore how IB educators can intentionally design learning environments that support both student well-being and academic success. Drawing on her deep experience with the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework and her strong background in the IB community, she unpacks how UDL and the Approaches to Learning (ATL) framework can work together to reduce barriers, strengthen student agency, and support diverse learners.

In this episode, Dženana Ćeman introduces the concept of Hidden Curriculum 2.0, inviting IB educators to examine how everyday school practices quietly shape students’ sense of identity and belonging. Drawing on her research and more than 20 years of experience in IB education, together we'll unpack the tension between international mindedness and national identity, and ask: Can the international truly thrive if the national is muted?