Presuming Competence with Amber Nathanson

David chats with Amber Nathanson, a pivotal educator in his son Stone's life. They explore the significance of presuming competence in students, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Amber shares her journey transitioning from teaching to medical school and discusses her adaptive teaching philosophies. Stone’s remarkable academic progress under Amber's guidance is highlighted, offering inspiration and lessons for educators and parents alike. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable and trusting environment for effective learning.

Topics

00:39 Meet Amber Nathanson: A Teacher's Impact

03:01 Amber's Journey to Teaching

07:23 The Philosophy of Personalized Education

11:01 Challenges and Adaptations in Teaching

17:41 Stone's Unique Learning Path

26:39 Reflecting on Geology and Teaching Experiences

27:05 Challenges and Strategies in Teaching Stone

28:23 Encouraging Stone's Academic Growth

30:46 The Importance of Asking Questions

33:10 Stone's Progress and Achievements

40:06 Weekly Segments: Tips and Confessions

47:36 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations