Learning Through Math

Pam Harris, a former high school teacher and an innovative university lecturer, dives deep into reshaping mathematics education. She discusses her new book, focusing on enhancing understanding over rote memorization. Pam shares insights on transitioning students from traditional methods to more dynamic strategies that foster deeper learning. The conversation also highlights the importance of making math thinking visible and embracing collaborative approaches across grade levels. Tune in for engaging anecdotes and practical tips to revolutionize math teaching!

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Dawn Dibley, a retired math coach for special education teachers and co-author of "Numeracy for All Learners," shares her insights on transforming math education. She discusses the transition from music therapy to math coaching, emphasizing the need for effective strategies in teaching diverse learners. Listeners will enjoy her reflections on fostering curiosity, adapting to each student's learning pathway, and the evolving challenges of retirement. The conversation encourages lifelong learning while navigating the impact of technology on education.

Jennifer Lenhart, a senior manager at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and author of "Common Denominators," joins the discussion on enhancing engagement in secondary mathematics education. They delve into the challenges teachers face with constant assessments and the emotional toll on students. The conversation includes rethinking grading practices and advocating for equity in education. Lenhart emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and innovative approaches to resource allocation, highlighting how writing can illuminate shared human experiences in education.

Jackie Maraska, an instructional coach and mathematics education researcher from Skokie, Illinois, dives into the transformative power of empathetic storytelling in education. She discusses innovative teaching strategies that promote student independence and engagement. The conversation emphasizes creating trusting classroom environments that empower student inquiry and highlights the importance of flexibility and choice in problem-solving. Jackie also reflects on the challenges educators face and the vital role of personal narratives in enhancing the learning experience.

Patrick Sullivan, an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Missouri State University and author, dives deep into the landscape of elementary math education. He discusses the importance of moving beyond memorization to foster conceptual understanding in students. Sullivan shares insights on effective questioning techniques to gauge comprehension of complex concepts like fractions and multiplication. He also reflects on his journey in writing a book inspired by student feedback, emphasizing the value of mentorship and emotional connections in teaching.

Chapina Rumsey, an Associate Professor at the University of Northern Iowa, and Jodi Guarino, a Senior Lecturer at UC Irvine, discuss the pivotal role of curiosity and play in early math education. They share innovative strategies like interactive games and hands-on exploration to foster deeper understanding. The pair also recount a delightful evening with a colleague, emphasizing work-life balance. They highlight the importance of validating student conjectures and collaborating in the classroom to enhance learning experiences for young learners.

In this vibrant discussion, Mickey Bannock, an experienced elementary math program planner from Palm Beach County, dives into the complexities of acceleration in math education. He shares insights from his 26 years in teaching, emphasizing the need for a solid grasp of foundational concepts amid the pressures of standardized testing. Bannock advocates for personalized teaching strategies that cater to diverse learners, exploring the distinction between high test scores and true understanding. His reflections spark a compelling dialogue on improving math instruction and student success.

Courtney Flessner, the Director at Keep Indiana Learning and former educator with a Ph.D., and Ryan Flessner, a Butler University education professor, discuss the importance of daily number sense routines in enhancing student engagement. They explore challenges of abstract mathematics, the significance of mentorship in professional growth, and insights on equity in education from a recent conference. The conversation also emphasizes the need for work-life balance in teaching, highlighting personal stories and innovative strategies that enrich math education.

Annalise Record, a mathematics education expert specializing in Universal Design for Learning, dives deep into rethinking traditional math teaching. She highlights transformative strategies for inclusive education, emphasizing the importance of trust in students' capabilities. The discussion also explores innovative practices like individualized education programs and creative learning tools that foster engagement and understanding. Personal anecdotes add a relatable touch, making it clear that math can be both a fascinating and accessible journey for all learners.