Chalk & Talk

Cognitive load theory in math class with David Morkunas (Ep 26)

May 3, 2024

Australian teacher and numeracy learning specialist, David Morkunas, discusses applying cognitive load theory in math class with practical tips on explicit instruction, standard algorithms, math anxiety, and motivation. The episode provides actionable advice for educators seeking to enhance math teaching methods.

56:25

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Episode guests

David Morkunas

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Quick takeaways

Effective math instruction involves incorporating cognitive load theory and explicit instruction techniques to enhance student learning.

Manipulatives are essential in early math education to aid in understanding concrete concepts and transition to abstract representations.

Incorporating daily reviews with spaced, interleaved, and retrieval practices can solidify student understanding and enhance long-term retention in math education.

Deep dives

Explicit Instruction in Teaching Math: Key Principles

Explicit instruction is highlighted as a crucial method for teaching math, emphasizing the importance of cognitive load theory and explicit instruction techniques. By understanding intrinsic and extraneous cognitive load, teachers can effectively manage working memory for students. Using strategies like 'I do, we do, you do,' teachers guide students through mathematical concepts while consistently checking for understanding.

Importance of Teaching Standard Algorithms

01:15

Fostering Mental Math Success

01:18

Introduction

2min

Transition from Accounting to Teaching and Teaching Experience in Math

2min

Exploring the Role of a Learning Specialist and the Australian Education System

2min

Diverse Approaches to Math Curriculum Expectations

2min

Optimizing Math Instruction Through Cognitive Load Theory and Daily Reviews

16min

Importance of Teaching Standard Algorithms in Math Education

15min

Supporting Students with Math Anxiety and Varying Skill Levels

16min

Advice for New Teachers and the Value of Mentorship

3min

In Episode 26, math professor Anna Stokke is joined by David Morkunas, who is an Australian teacher and numeracy learning specialist. Their conversation focusses on practical applications of cognitive load theory and explicit instruction for teaching math.

They discuss David’s role in overseeing a primary math program. He shares strategies for incorporating cognitive science principles into daily math reviews. They discuss the significance of standard algorithms and explore David’s strategies for teaching them. They talk about the role of manipulatives, math anxiety and fostering motivation in math class. Anna also asked David to recommend resources for further exploration of explicit instruction and cognitive load theory.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for teaching math. David’s infectious passion for math and his skill in applying effective teaching methods make this an invaluable episode for educators and math education enthusiasts.

PREVIOUS EPISODES MENTIONED

Raising student achievement with Dylan Wiliam: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-kduiw-15bba36

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-26-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-26-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it

Blue Dot Sessions – Town Market, Balti

Podington Bear – Camp, Proliferate

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke