Chalk & Talk

Autism and evidence-based math instruction with Katharine Beals (Ep 28)

Jun 14, 2024

Math professor Anna Stokke interviews Dr. Katharine Beals, expert in evidence-based instruction for students with autism. They discuss how autism affects math learning, ineffective instructional techniques, and recommended math programs for autistic individuals. Key takeaway: effective methods for autism benefit all students.

01:02:05

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Episode guests

Katharine Beals

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Quick takeaways

Effective instructional methods for students with autism benefit the majority, yet poor techniques disproportionately hinder autistic individuals.

Math programs requiring verbal explanations pose challenges for autistic students, highlighting the need for structured, language-minimized curriculum.

Progressive math instruction emphasizing concepts over procedures can be difficult for autistic students due to language-intensive components and group work.

Deep dives

Overview of Autism and its Characteristics

Autism is characterized by social impairments and restrictive repetitive behaviors. Individuals with autism may exhibit sensory sensitivity as well. Verbal knowledge and skills can vary based on the severity of autism.

The Importance of Precision Teaching and Direct Instruction

03:32

Evolution of Math Education

01:40

Focus on Academic Readiness over IQ Scores in Gifted Programs

01:13

Creating an Autism-Friendly Classroom

01:06

Intro

3min

Exploring Autism, Linguistics, and Language Acquisition

5min

Exploring 'High Functioning' in Asperger's and Autism Spectrum

18min

Effective Math Instruction for Students with Dyscalculia and Autism

15min

Debunking Facilitated Communication for Individuals with Autism

8min

Resurgence of Environmental Exposure Teaching Method

8min

Discussions on Math Instruction, Geometry Proofs, and Understanding Autistic Students

4min

In episode 28, math professor Anna Stokke interviews Dr. Katharine Beals, who is a linguist and expert in using evidence-based instruction to teach students with autism. Katharine is the author of several books on autism, including one focused on autism-friendly curriculum and instruction.

They begin the episode with an overview of autism, where Katharine describes some of its defining characteristics and the skills typically affected. She discusses how autism impacts math learning and some common instructional techniques that can negatively impact autistic students. They then discuss what research suggests are the most effective instructional methods for students with autism.

Along the way, they discuss facilitated communication, and Katharine recommends math programs that are particularly well-suited for autistic individuals.

A key takeaway from this conversation is that many instructional techniques that are most effective for students with autism benefit the majority of students, but poor instructional methods more adversely affect those with autism. This fascinating and highly informative conversation is a must-listen for educators and anyone passionate about education.

PREVIOUS EPISODES MENTIONED

Ep 21. The right to learn math with Daniel Ansari https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-4nv9n-1527568

Ep 25. Understanding math reform ideology with Tom Loveless https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-7ih4c-15dbf9a

Ep 27. Using evidence in education with Pamela Snow https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-jc9mq-161ecac

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-28-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-28-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it

Blue Dot Sessions – Inamorata, Town Market, The Gran Dias

Podington Bear – Lakeside Path, Camp