Episode #259 Shifting from a Deficit Model with Nic Ponsford

In this episode, we interview Nic Ponsford, the founder and CEO of the Global Equality Collective (GEC). We discuss the importance of collecting accurate data in education and how the GEC is using AI to gather intersectional data on inclusion, diversity, and wellbeing in schools. Nic shares her journey from being a teacher to starting the GEC and explains how the GEC platform is helping schools create action plans based on the data collected. We also discuss the need to shift from a deficit model of data collection to one that focuses on understanding and meeting the underserved needs of students and staff. The conversation explores the importance of creating unique and individual organisations in education that are specific to their context. It emphasises the need to apply ideas and data to the diversity of the organisation, its staff, and its students. The goal is to create a million or a thousand unique and outstanding organisations, rather than scaling up nationally. The conversation also highlights the importance of listening, understanding, and supporting the voices of all stakeholders in education, including staff, students, and the wider community. It emphasises the need for psychological safety, diverse thinking, and positive conflict in order to create a safe and inclusive learning environment. The conversation also touches on the use of technology, such as e-sports and AI, as well as the importance of assistive technologies in education. The biggest inspiration in education is someone who challenges the status quo and dares to be different. Chapters 00:00 Introductions 03:23 The Importance of Accurate Data Collection in Education 13:21 Using AI to Gather Intersectional Data on Inclusion and Diversity 17:30 Creating Action Plans Based on Data with the GEC Platform 23:51 Shifting from a Deficit Model to Understanding Underserved Needs 29:03 Creating Unique and Individual Organizations 35:27 Changing Relationships with Schools 39:12 Listening and Understanding in Education 43:33 Creating a Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment 46:06 Exploring the Use of Technology in Education 49:35 The Importance of Assistive Technologies 51:30 Inspiration in Education: Challenging the Status Quo Thanks so much for joining us again for another episode - we appreciate you. Ben & Steve x Championing those who are making the future of education a reality. Follow us on X Check out our new website & sign up for our weekly newsletter Book your tickets for Uprising 2025 in Manchester⁠ Want to sponsor future episodes or get involved with the Edufuturists work? Get in touch