Paul Donatelli on how small things can make significant improvements

Paul Donatelli on how small things can make significant improvements

From Teaching 'N Tech with Allan & Chad by Allan Brown and Chad Hoffman

October 31, 2025 · 50 min · Season 4 · Episode 3

About this episode

Paul Donatelli discusses his transition from engineering to education and how small decisions can significantly improve student outcomes.

In this episode, Allan and Chad are joined by Paul Donatelli, computer science educator from Canton City Schools. Paul details his unique experience transitioning from the field of engineering into education. His journey as a teacher includes both public and private schools, as well as work at the university level. The conversation goes deep into his science-based approach to skill mastery and motivation. We explore how he applies principles from behavioral economics and cognitive load theory to optimize learning, and combat barriers like expectancy cost. In addition, we tackle the massive shift of generative AI and its specific impact on computer science and learning to code. Find out how making small, intentional decisions can lead to a significant impact in student outcomes. Music: The Right Direction by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

People in this episode

Hosts: Allan Brown, Chad Hoffman

Guest: Paul Donatelli

Topics covered

  • education
  • computer science
  • skill mastery
  • behavioral economics
  • cognitive load theory
  • generative AI
  • student outcomes

Keywords

  • education
  • computer science
  • skill mastery
  • behavioral economics
  • cognitive load theory
  • generative AI
  • student outcomes

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Canton City Schools

Books & works: The Right Direction

More episodes of Teaching 'N Tech with Allan & Chad

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Teaching 'N Tech with Allan & Chad podcast page.