E80 – Algorithms, Echo Chambers, and Critical Thinking in the English Language Classroom (with Andrea Collados)

In this episode of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast, Shé and Anna are joined by global educator and ESL teacher Andrea Collados for a timely and deeply reflective conversation about algorithms, echo chambers, and the urgent role of critical thinking in English language teaching. Together, they unpack how algorithm-driven media environments shape what our students see, believe, and share—and why the English language classroom may be one of the last spaces where learners can slow down, question information, and encounter perspectives beyond their digital bubbles.Rather than framing technology as something to reject, this episode invites teachers to interrogate it thoughtfully. Andrea shares classroom-ready ideas for embedding critical thinking into everyday lessons without overwhelming teachers or students, reminding us that language is not neutral—and that teaching English today means teaching discernment, empathy, and media literacy alongside grammar and vocabulary.📚 Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Social Dilemma (Documentary)Teaching Critical Thinking by bell hooks1984 by George OrwellBrave New World by Aldous HuxleyThe Truman Show (Film)Related Teacher Think-Aloud episodes:Episode 39 - Media Literacy 101: Bias and perspective-takingEpisode 41 - Media Literacy 102: Misinformation, propaganda, and conspiracy theories… oh my!Episode 24 - Like. Share. Post.💡 Reflect with us:How do algorithms shape the information you consume—and trust—on a daily basis?What’s one small shift you could make to encourage more critical questioning in your lessons this week?How can empathy deepen critical thinking in language learning?🎧 SponsorThis episode is sponsored by Ellii, one of the world’s leading content libraries for English language teachers. Looking for ready-made lessons that get students talking? Visit Ellii.com. Use code THINKALOUD for 15% off your first membership term. Admins can also request a two-month free trial to pilot Ellii for your program.📚 Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:29 Welcome to the Teacher Think Aloud Podcast00:44 Critical Thinking and Algorithms01:52 Introducing Our Guest: Andrea Collados02:30 Icebreaker: Trusting Algorithms vs. Colleagues03:36 The Role of Educators in Critical Thinking05:50 Media Literacy and Bias13:50 The Impact of Algorithms on Student Thinking16:37 The Impact of Fake News17:23 The Role of Critical Thinking in Education18:54 Incorporating Critical Thinking in the Classroom19:48 Practical Activities for Critical Thinking24:32 Understanding Misinformation and Disinformation26:18 Empathy and Critical Thinking28:46 Resources and Recommendations30:38 Conclusion and Reflections