An RU 515 Podcast featuring thought leaders from the world of education and librarianship.
Voices of Literacy
Claim This Podcastby Jennifer LaGarde
14 episodes
Updated Inactive
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸
Podcast Overview
An RU 515 Podcast featuring thought leaders from the world of education and librarianship.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
6/24/2023
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Recent Episodes
February 5, 2026
RU515 Voices of Literacy 1/20/2026 | Guest: Dr. John Spencer
In this episode, Jennifer is joined by Dr. John Spencer, a former middle school teacher and current professor of educational technology, for a thoughtful and timely conversation about artificial intelligence, information literacy and the human choices that shape how technology is used in schools and communities. Here are some key takeaways: 🔹 AI Is Not Magic, It’s a Prediction MachineJennifer and John unpack what artificial intelligence actually does, tracing it back through history to show how today’s generative tools are part of a long lineage of prediction based technologies. They discuss why understanding how AI works matters for librarians and educators navigating deepfakes, bias and misinformation. 🔹 Why AI Can Harm Without Being “Intelligent”Using real world examples from recent news, John explains why AI can generate convincing and harmful images or content without truly knowing anything at all. The conversation highlights how training data, probability and human prompting combine to create outcomes that feel real and cause real harm. 🔹 Bias, Anthropomorphism and Gendered TechTogether they explore why we so often talk about AI as if it were human, including how assistant metaphors and gendered language shape our relationships with technology. This section connects directly to media literacy and the importance of naming how power, bias and history are embedded in tools. 🔹 The Human Factor in Media and Information LiteracyJohn and Jennifer return again and again to the idea that technology amplifies human intent. They discuss why curiosity, historical context and civic literacy are essential for helping learners critically engage with AI rather than fear it or accept it uncritically. 🔹 Why Librarians Matter More Than EverThe episode closes with a powerful reflection on the role of librarians as leaders in information literacy, AI education and ethical technology use. In a moment when library positions are being cut or diminished, this conversation makes a clear case for why librarians are essential guides in an AI saturated world. Note: While this podcast is available across many popular podcast platforms, it was recorded specifically for students in the MLIS Program at Rutgers University, especially those taking RU 515: Emerging Literacies.
December 8, 2025
RU515 Voices of Literacy 12/8/2025 | Guest: Len Bryan
In this episode, Jennifer is joined by Len Bryan, Partner of Library Services for the Cherry Creek School District, for a lively and insightful conversation about what school library data can reveal, inspire and make possible. 🔹 Why Mid Year Data MattersJennifer and Len explore how timing shapes the impact of data storytelling, and why sharing information while decisions are still in motion can make a meaningful difference for learners and library programs. 🔹 Seeing the Library Through EvidenceFrom circulation patterns to instructional collaborations, Len breaks down practical and approachable ways librarians can identify, collect and synthesize data that already exists in their daily work. 🔹 Data as a Community BuilderTogether they consider how data, when used thoughtfully, can open doors for collaboration, strengthen relationships with administrators and spark important conversations about what students need most. 🔹 A Fresh Approach to AdvocacyListeners get a first look at Jennifer’s Library Wrapped idea, inspired by Spotify Wrapped, and learn how joyful mid year data stories can capture attention, celebrate learners and highlight the essential work happening in school libraries. Note: While this podcast is available across many popular podcast platforms, it was recorded specifically for students in the MLIS Program at Rutgers University, especially those taking RU 515: Emerging Literacies.
November 13, 2025
RU515 Voices of Literacy 11/13/2025 | Guest: April Dawkins
In this episode, Jennifer and Dr. April Dawkins jump into an important conversation about what it really means to protect access, ethics, and intellectual freedom in today’s schools. 🔹 Why Intellectual Freedom Matters NowThey unpack how legislation, district policies, and educational gag orders are shaping what learners can read and how librarians make decisions. 🔹 The Rise of MisinformationApril traces how old propaganda tactics have been supercharged by today’s digital tools, creating new challenges for educators and communities. 🔹 Real Talk for Future LibrariansFrom navigating interview “gotcha” questions to leaning on policy instead of panic, April shares practical, clear eyed advice for early career librarians stepping into the work. 🔹 Reasons for HopeDespite the pressures facing school libraries, April highlights the passion and courage she sees in the next generation of librarians who are ready to advocate, lead, and build inclusive collections for every learner. Note: while this podcast is available to a broad audience across many popular podcast platforms, it was recorded specifically for students in the MLIS Program at Rutgers University - specifically those taking RU515: Emerging Literacies.
14 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Voices of Literacy?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates inactive.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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