Chalk & Talk

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 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stokke-3a1b4c

In this episode, math professor Anna Stokke is joined by education policy expert, Dr. Tom Loveless. They discuss the National Math Advisory Panel and some of the recommendations in from its final report. They talk about the influential 1989 NCTM standards and their global impact on math education as well as the history of the math wars. Tom discusses some of his concerns about the California Math Framework and whether its recommendations are aligned with those in the National Math Advisory Panel report. They cover many other topics such as San Francisco’s unsuccessful de-tracking initiative and the importance of memorizing math facts. This episode is a must listen for anyone who teaches math, as well as parents and policymakers. PREVIOUS EPISODES MENTIONED Red flags in education research with Ben Solomon (Ep 23) Modern relevance in the math curriculum with Brian Conrad (Ep 15) California’s math controversy with Jelani Nelson, Part I (Ep 11) EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-25-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-25-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Avoiding the Backdrop, Godmother’s Visit, Lakeside Path, Momentary Ease, Sonatina Kemf Komiku – Bleu Podington Bear - Kitten Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stokke-3a1b4c

In Episode 24, Anna Stokke interviews Dr. Dylan Wiliam, who is an education researcher renowned for his expertise on formative assessment. They begin by discussing PISA scores and the need to improve math proficiency. They then focus on Dylan's two primary recommendations for raising student achievement – a knowledge-rich curriculum and investing in enhancing teacher effectiveness. They also discuss both formative and summative assessment. Dylan provides some concrete examples for how educators, whether in school or post-secondary settings, can effectively use formative assessment to support student learning. Along the way, they discuss math specialists in primary schools and things teachers can focus on to have the largest impact. This episode provides a wealth of practical wisdom for teachers, policy makers and parents. The resource page for this episode includes books, studies and videos mentioned in the episode. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-24-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-24-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Balti, Noe Noe, Cherry Heath, Lemon and Melon, Haventhorn, Thannoid Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stokke-3a1b4c

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, for a discussion with Dr. Ben Solomon in the final episode of the first season of Chalk & Talk. Ben is a psychology professor and a researcher in math assessment and intervention, known for his expertise in research methodology. One of the goals of this episode is to provide teachers, parents, and the wider public with tools for critically evaluating claims in education. The resource page for this episode describes five red flags to watch for in education research studies. Anna asked Ben to analyze two specific education papers. The first paper has often been used to justify misguided claims about standard algorithms. They discuss flaws with the methodology in that paper. Ben also analyzes a high-quality education paper, highlighting the qualities that elevate it to the status of a rigorous education study, from which meaningful conclusions can be drawn. Along the way, they have a passionate discussion about the importance of teaching standard algorithms. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on the science of learning and the need for education to evolve to use evidence-based practices and data-driven decision-making to achieve best outcomes for students. They hope this episode equips educators and parents with some tools to critically evaluate claims, ensuring that educational practices are grounded in sound research. Thank you for joining Anna Stokke for the first season of Chalk & Talk! Follow Anna on X @rastokke to receive advance notifications for new episodes. researchED Toronto, Canada: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/researched-canada-the-science-of-learning-toronto-may-3-4-2024-tickets-765640259627 EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-23-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-23-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Arroz con leche, Cherie’s Polvo, Haventhorn, Mazamorra, Tarte Tatin, Noe Noe, Cornicob Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37 Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, in conversation with author and educator Dr. Carl Hendrick. They begin by discussing research on growth mindset. Then, they discuss whether motivation is a precursor to academic success or if, in fact, success is more likely to lead to motivation. They talk about whether engagement is a valid measure of learning and whether it's possible to teach generic skills like critical thinking. Anna asks Carl how we might define the science of learning and they discuss teaching methods that are in line with the science of learning. They wrap up the conversation with a discussion on the impact of mobile phones on learning, and Carl gives some valuable advice for new teachers. This episode will be of interest to teachers, parents and anyone interested in education. researchED Toronto, Canada: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/researched-canada-the-science-of-learning-toronto-may-3-4-2024-tickets-765640259627 EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-22-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-22-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch It Blue Dot Sessions – Building the Sled, Cherie’s Polvo, Cherry Heath, Cigar Singles, Haventhorn, Lemon and Melon Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37 Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, as she interviews Dr. Daniel Ansari, who is a Canada Research Chair in developmental cognitive neuroscience. They discuss the importance of early numeracy skills and his research on symbolic representations. They talk about similarities and differences between math and reading. They also debunk the misconception of gender differences in math. Responding to a question from a teacher, Daniel discusses the role of manipulatives in teaching math. He also discusses dyscalculia and provides some tips for helping students who struggle with math. They close the episode by discussing some common neuromyths. Among other things, Daniel stresses the fundamental right of every child to learn math. The resource page for this episode includes studies mentioned in the episode and resources for helping children who struggle with math. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-21-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-21-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Proliferate Blue Dot Sessions – Balti, Hedgeliner, Cornicob, Coulis Coulis, Lissa Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37 Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, for a discussion about reading and math with Dr. Matthew Burns. He is well-known for his research in reading instruction, including research on the effectiveness of the Fountas & Pinnell Benchmark Assessment System. He has also published research on math interventions. He gives a brief history of reading instruction and explains how ideas about how to teach reading became pervasive despite lacking scientific evidence. They then move on to discuss parallels with math instruction, which is the focus of the episode. A noticeable shift is happening in reading, with educators and policymakers now recognizing the importance of phonics and other principles from the science of reading. Math has not received the same level of attention as reading, despite being extremely important. Anna asks Matt to discuss what turned things around for reading and to offer suggestions for how we might create a similar shift for math. The resource page for this episode includes studies mentioned in the episode and resources for helping children develop automaticity with math facts. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-20-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-20-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Lakeside Path Blue Dot Sessions – General Inamorata, The Gran Dias, Tarte Tatin, Thannoid Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37 Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Adrian Mims. He is the co-founder and CEO of the Calculus Project, which is a non-profit organization that aims to increase the number of Black, Hispanic, Indigenous and low-income students taking calculus, starting with support in middle school. They discuss why he started The Calculus Project, the various components of the program, and its overall impact. They talk about what he calls “the quiet crisis,” in reference to declining math scores, and why it’s important to turn that around. They discuss the importance of offering math acceleration options for middle school students. They talk about the consequence of students finding themselves in a position where they must take remedial math in university. Moreover, Dr. Mims shares some valuable advice for policy makers on how to improve math outcomes for students who have historically been underrepresented in math. This episode will be of interest to teachers, school administrators, parents, policy makers and anyone with an interest in improving math outcomes. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-19-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-19-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – No squirell commotion, Proliferate Blue Dot Sessions – Partly Sage, Cornicob, Gaena, Thannoid Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37 Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, in conversation with Daisy Christodoulou. Daisy is a teacher, an author and the Director of Education at No More Marking. They begin by discussing the myth that facts prevent understanding and the importance of content knowledge, with a side discussion on why it is important to memorize math facts. They discuss why basic knowledge cannot just be outsourced to computers. They talk about some common myths about exams and whether exams help students learn. Anna asks Daisy for her thoughts on a practice called ungrading. They talk about how to acquire knowledge and myths surrounding so-called 21st century skills. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who is interested in education! EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-18-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-18-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Squirrel Commotion, Prolifereate Blue Dot Sessions: Tarte Tatin, Cases to Rest, No Squirrel Commotion, Partly Sage OY Studio – Light Comedy Website: www.annastokke.com X: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37 Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

In Episode 17, Anna Stokke sits down with Dr. Robin Codding to talk about timed tests and math anxiety. Robin is a psychology professor who researches math interventions, assessment tools and math anxiety. She is one of the founding members of the group The Science of Math. In this episode, Anna asks Robin to shed some light on claims that timed tests cause math anxiety. They discuss the relationship between math achievement and math anxiety, whether it's important to include timed practice in math class, how much practice is needed to become fluent with math skills, at what stage students should be engaging in timed practice, causes of math anxiety, and best ways to mitigate it. They talk about the relationship between conceptual and procedural understanding and whether productive struggle is a reasonable instructional technique. Robin also shares strategies for identifying instructional methods that are philosophy-based, rather than evidence-based. This episode is an essential resource for clearing up misconceptions about timed tests and math anxiety. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-17-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-17-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear - Kitten Blue Dot Sessions – Ivory pillow, Delmendra, Ivory Pillow, Partly Sage, Coulis Coulis Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37

In Episode 16, Anna Stokke talks to cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Daniel Willingham. Dan shares some of the strategies in his latest book, "Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning Is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy." They begin by addressing the learning styles myth. They discuss what constitutes retrieval practice in a math context and why retrieval practice is more effective than simply reading. They talk about how to help students recognize and solve variations in math problems, how to get students to use notes effectively, and distractions that hinder learning, such as cell phones and multitasking. He also offers some advice for when students face setbacks. Some of the discussion is geared towards high school or post-secondary students and their instructors, but the conversation will be useful and interesting for anyone who teaches or is interested in human learning. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-16-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-16-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear - Kitten Blue Dot Sessions – Tarte Tatin, Coulis Coulis, Balti, Are We Loose Yet, Gaena Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37

Join Anna Stokke in discussion with Dr. Brian Conrad, who is a math professor and director of undergraduate studies in math at Stanford. They discuss some modern-day applications of math, and he gives some advice for parents who wonder what type of math their kids should learn to be ready for a four-year college degree in STEM or other quantitative fields. Listeners will receive an update on what happened with the California Math Framework since the two episodes featuring Jelani Nelson (Episodes 11 & 12). As well, Brian Conrad shares examples of the many false or misleading citations he found permeating a 1000-page draft copy of the CMF. The discussion of those findings illustrates how citation misrepresentation can lead to misunderstandings about math and data science among the general public. This episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, policy makers and anyone with an interest in math or education. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-15-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-15-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Tarte Tatin, Callison, Ivory Pillow, Coulis Coulis, Cases to Rest, Delmendra, Delicates Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37

Join Anna Stokke in discussion with Dr. Dan Rosen, who is a teacher and school leader. They explore the impact of stress on learning. They talk about the biology of stress, the difference between anxiety and stress, and common factors that trigger stress for students in the classroom. They also discuss misconceptions about stress. For example, stress may actually enhance learning at certain stages of the learning process. They discuss the claim that timed tests cause math anxiety and talk about practical strategies for minimizing the impact of stress in high-stakes assessments, like exams. This episode will benefit educators of all levels, from K-12 to post-secondary, regardless of the subject they teach, be it math or another field. Parents will also find it useful. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-14-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-14-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Thannoid, Little Poder, Cases to Rest, Coulis Coulis 29811401 – Mysterious Illusion OYStudio – Light Comedy Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke Threads: @rastokke37

In Episode 13, Anna Stokke discusses teaching with Patrice Bain, who is a co-author of the book Powerful Teaching: Unleash the Science of Learning. Patrice was one of the first K-12 teachers to partner with cognitive scientists so that research could be conducted in a classroom setting. This episode is all about using research-based power tools to transform teaching. They discuss retrieval practice, spacing, interleaving and metacognition. Along the way, they give practical teaching tips, with a special focus on math. The strategies discussed apply to teaching any field and to both K-12 and post-secondary. In addition to a familiarity with research-based teaching strategies, Patrice brings a wealth of practical teaching experience to the conversation. This episode is a must listen for anyone who is interested in evidence-informed teaching! EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-13-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-13-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Proliferate, Kitten Blue Dot Sessions – Partly Sage, Cases to Rest, No Squirrel Commotion Purple Planet – Bright Ideas Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke

This is the second episode of a two-part series featuring Dr. Jelani Nelson. He is a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at UC Berkeley. Dr. Nelson, and other STEM leaders, have publicly raised concerns about the proposed California Math Framework (CMF). In this episode, Anna Stokke and Jelani Nelson discuss whether students should have the option of accelerating in math in middle school. First, Jelani describes how he founded the non-profit AddisCoder. Jelani shares his thoughts on acceleration and discusses the impact of acceleration reforms in San Francisco. They also discuss the makeup of the CMF writing team, citation misrepresentation in the CMF, among other topics. For better or worse, California tends to lead the way when it comes to changes in education, so this episode is an important listen! The next episode of Chalk & Talk will be published on July 28. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-12-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-11-12-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Sunset Strolle, Kitten, Lake Victoria, Coulis Coulis Blue Dot Sessions – Tall Harvey Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke

This is the first episode of a two-part series featuring Dr. Jelani Nelson. He is a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at UC Berkeley. Dr. Nelson, and other STEM leaders, have publicly raised concerns about the proposed California Math Framework (CMF). In this episode, much of the discussion surrounds the CMF’s promotion of data science and changes to math requirements in the University of California system. Anna Stokke and Jelani Nelson discuss what sort of math is needed for a data science degree and the crucial role of Algebra II in preparing students for careers in STEM. Jelani explains the circumstances surrounding the emergence of two high school data science courses that have been marketed as substitutes for Algebra II, despite containing minimal math content. He also addresses the claim that the CMF is equity-based. They wrap up the episode by discussing what happened when he retweeted a post about a prominent math educator charging a school district $5000 an hour in consulting fees. For better or worse, California tends to lead the way when it comes to changes in education, so this episode is an important listen! EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-11-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-11-12-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media - Catch it Purple Planet Music - Bright ideas MusicTown - Inquisitive Orchestra Yevhen Onoychenko - Comedy Detective Blue Dot Sessions - Cases to Rest Podington Bear - Coulis Coulis, Squirrel Commotion OYStudio - Light Comedy Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, as she chats with Dr. Zach Groshell. He is an instructional coach and a passionate advocate for evidence-informed teaching. They discuss whether it’s possible to expand working memory, the characteristics of a successful explicit instruction lesson, effective approaches for delivering feedback and more. They also tackle a question sent in by a listener who asked whether teaching math through open-ended problems is effective. This episode will resonate with teachers, parents and anyone interested in education. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-10-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-10-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Kitten, Camp Blue Dot Sessions – Tall Harvey, Thannoid, Squirrel Connection OYStudio – Light Comedy Lexin Music – Upbeat Documentary Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke

Join math professor, Anna Stokke, in conversation with Tom Bennett. He is a teacher, author and founder of the grass roots, non-profit organization ResearchED. Tom has a captivating sense of humour, making this a great listen. They discuss many things in this episode, such as education research, group work, cell phones in schools and evidence-informed teaching. But the conversation begins with the story of ResearchED, which has started an evidence revolution in education. It all started with one tweet – as Tom Bennett calls it “The Tweet that Roared.” Anyone interested in education will enjoy this episode! EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-9-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-9-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Sunset Stroll, Camp, Proliferate Blue Dot Sessions – Cases to Rest, Partly Sage OYStudio – Light Comedy Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke

In this episode math professor, Anna Stokke, interviews Lucy Crehan, who is a teacher and an author. In her book, Cleverlands, she presents her first-hand observations of the education systems in different countries. They discuss teacher qualifications in Finland and Singapore, teacher professional development in Japan and math lessons in Shanghai. They cover some commonalities in high-performing countries, such as the use of high-quality textbooks, and the role of practice and memorization in East Asian countries. The conversation then shifts to cultural differences, some of which may impact educational outcomes. If you are curious about education systems in different parts of the world, you won’t want to miss this episode! EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-8-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-8-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Lakeside Path Blue Dot Sessions – Tall Harvey, Hundred Mile Lexin Music - Upbeat Documentary OYStudio – Light Comedy Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke

Join Anna Stokke as she interviews Dr. Barbara Oakley, an engineering professor whose work focusses on the relationship between neuroscience and social behaviour. She is an expert on learning tough subjects and has written several books for teachers and students that detail science-based techniques for learning. They cover learning techniques such as chunking and deliberate practice. They explore why being a slower learner may not necessarily be a drawback and consider whether it’s possible to catch up on math skills later in life. Dr. Oakley shares some effective study techniques and offers strategies for overcoming procrastination. Post-secondary educators and teachers will not want to miss this episode. The learning tips discussed will also be invaluable for students, parents and anyone who wants to become better at learning math. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT https://www.annastokke.com/ep-7-transcript EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.annastokke.com/ep-7-resources MUSIC Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear – Lakeside Path, Kitten, Camp Blue Dot Sessions – Cases to Rest, Thannoid OYStudio – Light Comedy SoulProdMusic – Upbeat and Happy Music Website: www.annastokke.com Twitter: @rastokke