How to improve math education | Jo Boaler and Lex Fridman | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

A new math framework recommends teaching math by focusing on big ideas and using rich, deep activities instead of relying on standards and textbooks.

Key Insights

• 😃 The new math framework recommends teaching math through big ideas and connections, rather than relying on narrow standards.
• ❓ Textbooks often fail to inspire and show the connections between mathematical concepts.
• 🏆 Grades and tests can create a performance culture that hinders deep learning.
• 🧑‍🎓 Teachers can support and challenge students by recognizing their interests and providing extension tasks.
• 😃 Teaching math through rich, deep activities allows for a better understanding of big ideas and connections.
• 🈴 The focus should be on the process of learning and growth, rather than just outcomes and grades.
• 🤳 Assessments can be done through rubrics and self-assessments to track students' mathematical progress.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How does the new math framework suggest teaching math differently?

The new framework suggests teaching math by focusing on big ideas and connections between them. Teachers are encouraged to use rich, deep activities that teach these big ideas, rather than relying solely on standards and textbooks.

Q: What is the problem with current math education methods?

Current methods use standards that chop up math into narrow questions, making it seem boring and uninspiring. Textbooks also fail to show the connections between different mathematical concepts.

Q: What role do grades and tests play in math education?

The speaker is not a fan of grades and tests in math education, as they can create a performance culture that hinders deep learning. Instead, teachers can assess students using rubrics and self-assessments throughout the year to track their mathematical journey.

Q: How can teachers support and challenge students in math education?

Teachers can support and challenge students by recognizing their interests and abilities in specific aspects of math. They can provide extension tasks and encourage students to go further in their exploration and discovery.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• A new math framework for the state of California recommends teaching math by focusing on big ideas and connections between them, rather than using standards and textbooks.

• Currently, standards and textbooks chop up the subject into narrow questions, making math seem boring and uninspiring.

• Teachers are encouraged to teach math through rich, deep activities that teach big ideas, allowing students to see the connections between different mathematical concepts.