Pattern Breakers Niels Hoven: Teaching Two Year-Olds to Read Like Second Graders
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Sep 23, 2024 Niels Hoven, a dedicated father of four and founder of the educational tech company Mentava, dives into the ambitious goal of teaching toddlers to read at a second-grade level. He discusses how his app is designed to challenge the norm of lowered educational standards. The conversation reveals the unexpected sales boost from public critique and highlights the importance of empowering parents in their children’s learning journey. Hoven advocates for innovative approaches in education, especially in light of the issues faced by high-achieving learners during the pandemic.
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Education's Shift to Closing Gaps
- Modern education policy focuses on closing achievement gaps, not maximizing high achievers' potential.
- Schools often restrict accelerated learning, leaving many high-potential children underserved.
Niels' Accelerated Learning Story
- Niels' early acceleration was enabled by his father who secured advanced math opportunities for him.
- This foundation let him take calculus in eighth grade, illustrating the benefits of early accelerated learning.
Phonics For Reading Success
- Phonics is the proven method to teach reading, focusing on letter sounds and blending.
- The key challenge is maintaining children's motivation long enough to master English sounds.