Events

Lesson Planning Like a DJ: Using the BEAT Framework to Design Lessons That Stick

Offered virtually via Zoom and presented by Lori Cohen.

Date:
Thursday April 16, 2026

Time:
3:00 – 4:30 PM

Pricing:
AISNE Member (1-3 people): $99/pp
AISNE Member (4-9 people): $90/pp
AISNE Member (10-19 people): $80/pp

Non-Members add $100 to each pricing category.

A great DJ doesn’t just play good songs; they orchestrate a whole experience. The same applies to lesson design. In this interactive session, you will learn the BEAT framework for creating brain-friendly lesson sequences:

• Build the arc (Launch, Explore, Land)
• Ease the load (manage cognitive demand so students are challenged but not overwhelmed)
• Alternate the modes (shift between receiving, processing, and producing)
• Track the learning (embed formative checks that make thinking visible)

Grounded in cognitive load theory and the neuroscience of attention and memory, this session moves beyond “What activities should I do?” to “How do I design the rhythm of a lesson that works with my students’ brains?” You’ll audit a lesson’s cognitive demands, practice designing transitions that deepen learning, and leave with a practical planning tool you can use right away.

Intended outcomes include:

• Recognizing brain-friendly approaches to lesson design
• Successfully assessing lessons for sequencing strengths and challenges
• Learning how to apply tools immediately to one’s lesson plans

About the Presenter:

Lori Cohen has worked in education (both public and independent schools) for over two decades serving as a teacher, instructional coach, school leader, and professional development facilitator whose expertise spans a range of topics. Lori brings intentionality and a broad array of skill sets to her design and facilitation—all through the lenses of equity and inclusion—and she facilitates with a balance of humility, humor, and heart. In 2019, Lori began working as an independent consultant. She has worked with the Eastern Education Resource Collaborative (East Ed) and as the Developer of People and Programs for Bright Morning Consulting. Cohen has written articles and blogs for English Journal, EdWeek, the California Teacher Development Collaborative, and Bright Morning Consulting, and she was a contributing author of The Art of Coaching Workbook. She is co-author (with Elena Aguilar) of The PD Book: 7 Habits that Transform Professional Development. Her most recent publication is Integrating Educator Well-Being, Growth, and Evaluation: Four Foundations for Leaders, co-authored with Elizabeth Denevi.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations and transfer requests must be sent via email to info@aisne.org. Cancellations received up to 10 days before the start of the event will receive a 100% refund, less a $150 administrative fee. This fee covers the cost of our minimum commitments with our hotel partners; thank you for your understanding. Transfers of registrations from one person to another are permitted up to 3 business days before the start of the event.

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