Skills Win with William Coplin
Download MP3Bill Coplin is an award-winning educator, author & social innovator with an impressive academic journey spanning six decades. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Sciences from Johns Hopkins University in 1960, followed by a Master of Arts in 1962 and a Ph.D. in International Relations in 1964 from American University. From 1977 to 2021, Coplin was the Director and Professor of the Public Affairs Program at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University and the College of Arts and Sciences.
Coplin started his academic career as a professor at Wayne State University in 1964. His dedication and scholarship led to his appointment as an Associate Professor in 1967 and, ultimately, the granting of tenure in 1968. In 1969, Coplin transitioned to Syracuse University, where he continued his research and innovative educational strategies. His contributions to academia led to his appointment as a full-time professor at Syracuse University in 1975, a remarkable achievement at the age of 36.
Over the past six decades, Coplin’s scholarly endeavors have encompassed diverse fields, including international relations, public policy, political risk analysis, social science education, and citizenship. In addition to 110 publications, Coplin has taken action in many areas. In 1979, he co-founded Political Risk Services profit center in Frost and Sullivan Inc, which provided forecasts of political and economic conditions in 100 countries until 2000. His work has impacted all levels from Syracuse University, the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, the State of New York, the US federal government and international affairs. Meantime, Coplin has increasingly focused his efforts toward reforming high school and college education leading to the creation of Skills Win.
Show Notes:
In this episode, we speak with Bill Coplin, an award-winning educator, author, and social innovator whose academic and professional journey spans over six decades. Coplin shares insights from his vast experience in academia, detailing his roles and contributions at Syracuse University and other institutions. He discusses his initiative 'Skills Win,' which focuses on equipping students with practical skills rather than solely academic knowledge. The conversation also covers the flaws in the current educational system, the stress it imposes on students, and the importance of engagement and practical experience in learning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in educational reform and the development of student skills.
Bookmarks:
00:00 Introduction to Bill Coplin's Academic Journey
00:33 Coplin's Early Career and Achievements
00:48 Transition to Syracuse University
01:26 Founding Political Risk Services Profit Center
01:50 Focus on Education Reform
03:10 Introduction to Skills Win
06:50 The Skills Revolution
09:52 Challenges in the Education System
20:11 Equity and Inclusion in Education
23:46 The Role of Experience in Education
25:06 Critique of Liberal Arts Education
25:45 The Importance of Practical Experience
28:01 Engagement and Learning in High School
28:52 Mindset Shift in Education
29:56 Personal Reflections and Career Aspirations
30:56 Advice for Educational Leaders
31:33 The Power of Communication and Flexibility
32:37 The Apprenticeship Model
32:59 Challenges in the Education System
34:46 Practical Exercises for Skill Development
42:40 Engagement as the Key to Learning
43:05 Final Thoughts and Collaboration
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