Chalk & Talk

Ep 20. Reading and math: parallels and pitfalls with Matthew Burns

Olivier Chabot's AI podcast notes
AI-generated based on their snips

1. There is a science of learning that applies to various subjects including reading and math. Direct instruction is an effective method for teaching novice learners. Explicit instruction and modeling are important for initial learning. Immediate corrective feedback is necessary for effective learning. Practice is crucial for improving speed and accuracy. Generalization of knowledge is achieved once speed and accuracy are sufficient. Knowing math facts is essential for learning math effectively.
2. Teaching and learning should be fun and engaging. Giving kids exciting tasks can motivate them. Language barriers can hinder learning. Reading difficulties can contribute to behavior problems in schools. Struggle in reading without the ability to understand is frustration, not productive.
3. Teaching with math manipulatives can hinder automaticity in understanding math concepts. Most kids who struggle in math already understand the underlying concept. For kids who understand the underlying concept, manipulatives can help with re-teaching. Re-teaching with manipulatives is not necessary once a student grasps the concept. Using manipulatives to teach the underlying concept of multiplication can be effective, such as using pennies to show 2 groups of 3 equals 6.
4. Blogs and opinion pieces are sometimes accepted as evidence in the science of reading movement, even though they are not research. There is a need for a better system to vet instructional programs, similar to the FDA for educational practices. The What Works clearing house in the Department of Education focuses more on identifying what doesn't work, due to the lack of research base in educational practice.

Highlights created by Olivier Chabot

Is there a science of learning?

23:18 • 2min

The Frustration of Ineffective Learning Methods

25:46 • 2min

How to Teach Conceptual Understanding

33:40 • 2min

The Downfalls of the Science of Reading Movement

42:41 • 1min