Join math professor Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Stephen Chew, a cognitive psychologist at Samford University. They explore the different types of practice—naive, purposeful, and deliberate—and why understanding these distinctions can transform teaching and improve learning. The discussion also covers how to use feedback effectively, structure worked examples in math class, address common student misconceptions, and build trust in the classroom. They even tackle the term “active learning"—whether it actually means anything useful, and why the research on it may not be as clear as it seems. Packed with practical advice and research-based strategies, this episode is a must-listen for educators at all levels.

NOTE: The resource page contains research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-48-resources

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction [00:02:53] Understanding naive, purposeful, and deliberate practice [00:13:46] The importance of feedback in learning [00:20:03] Effective use of worked examples [00:25:13] Addressing student misconceptions [00:31:18] Debunking learning myths: Struggle and engagement [00:34:58] Is active learning just a buzzword? [00:37:40] The problem with research on active learning [00:42:35] Nine cognitive challenges for effective teaching [00:44:51] Building trust in the classroom [00:47:55] Desirable difficulties vs. unnecessary challenges [00:51:23] Formative assessment techniques for large classes [00:53:47] The complexity and importance of teaching [00:54:32] Bridging the gap between research and practice

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 2. Evidence-based teaching strategies with Paul Kirschner https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-zgw6i-13b33df

Ep 4. Cognitive load theory with Greg Ashman https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-thbad-13cea56

Ep 7. How to excel in math and other tough subject with Barbara Oakley https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-bqs8p-14068f2

Ep 16. Applying cognitive science to education with Daniel Willingham https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-szugf-149dff1

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-48-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-48-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Cornicob, Momentary Ease, Town Market, Noe Noe Podington Bear – Proliferate

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

In this special mailbag episode, Anna Stokke tackles two listener questions and a comment. She breaks down a logic puzzle that stumped some fans, explains why relying on calculators isn’t a substitute for math fact fluency, and highlights comments from a listener about encouraging literacy trends in several Southern U.S. states.

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction and Mailbag Announcement

[00:01:08] Question 1: Logic Problem from Episode 40

[00:04:47] Question 2: Can calculators replace math fact fluency?

[00:12:00] Comment on states that buck the declining scores trend

The Southern Surge: Understanding the Bright Spots in the Literacy Landscape https://www.karenvaites.org/p/the-southern-surge-understanding

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 40 From math to science: How weak math skills hurt students https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-mqims-17b512f

Ep 36 How to build automaticity with math facts: A practical guide https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-3ny3k-17323a9 Ep 29 Math fact crisis: strategies for improving numeracy with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-u9y84-165d773 Ep 30 Math Fluency matters with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-pj6z6-166741e

Ep 45 A decade of decline: Examining falling test scores with Mike Petrilli https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-qeajx-187272a

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-47-transcript

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it

Blue Dot Sessions – Momentary Ease, Neatly Folded

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

In Episode 46, Anna Stokke chats with Australian education leader Ross Fox. As the former Director of Catholic Education for the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn, Ross led a major shift in teaching practices that led to significant gains in both literacy and numeracy.

The episode begins with an overview of the Australian education system. They then explore Ross’s implementation of the Catalyst program—an initiative grounded in the science of learning. Ross discusses how high-impact teaching strategies and high-quality instructional materials led to measurable improvements in achievement, reduced inequities, and enhanced student motivation and behaviour. They also explore why the science of learning movement is critical for the future of education in Australia—and beyond. This episode will be of interest to educators, school leaders, policymakers, and anyone passionate about improving teaching and learning outcomes.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Free Webinar with Dr. Anna Stokke and Dr. Ben Solomon: The Science of Math Instruction: Using Evidence-Based Practices in the Classroom, May 8, 2025. Registration link: https://home.edweb.net/webinar/mathskills20250508/

researchED Toronto: https://researched.org.uk/event/researched-toronto-2025/

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction and announcements

[00:02:33] Introducing Ross Fox

[00:04:14] Understanding the Australian education system

[00:09:56] Challenges in education and the Catalyst program

[00:11:03] The importance of effective teaching and learning

[00:19:22] Implementing the Science of Reading

[00:26:10] Defining and supporting learning

[00:30:45] High impact teaching practices

[00:32:12] Knowledge-rich curriculum

[00:36:17] Implementing effective math pedagogy

[00:40:49] Supporting teachers with high-quality math instructional materials

[00:44:28] Addressing educational inequities

[00:47:34] The Catalyst program: Goals and implementation

[00:49:10] Assessment and feedback for effective teaching

[01:00:53] Professional learning and teacher support

[01:04:09] Future directions and optimism in education

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 26 Cognitive load theory in math class with David Morkunas https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-znh5k-15f7937

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

Ep 33 Educational leadership: Improving math and literacy with Scott Hill https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-vpzf8-16d0c17

Ep 36 How to build automaticity with math facts: A practical guide https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-3ny3k-17323a9

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-46-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-46-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Podington Bear - Kitten Blue Dot Sessions – Town Market, Momentary Ease, Mazamorra, Squirrel Commotion Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

In this episode, host and math professor Anna Stokke interviews Mike Petrilli, President of the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, about the role of standardized testing in K–12 education. They discuss the benefits and criticisms of standardized tests, the methodologies behind tests like NAEP, international comparisons with PISA and TIMSS, long-term trends in student performance, and the consequences of declines in student achievement.

Highlights include a discussion of Mississippi's educational success despite high poverty rates, and the potential influences of modern educational policies and smartphones. Mike Petrilli emphasizes the importance of accurate measurement for policymaking and shares advice on influencing educational policy. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone interested in the future of education.

FREE WEBINAR: The Science of Math Instruction: Using Evidence-Based Practices in the Classroom, May 8, 2025. Registration link: https://home.edweb.net/webinar/mathskills20250508/

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction

[00:03:18] Discussion on standardized testing

[00:06:14] Criticisms of standardized testing

[00:12:25] Frequency and levels of testing

[00:20:04] International perspectives on testing

[00:23:11] Understanding NAEP

[00:28:07] Recent trends in NAEP scores

[00:28:41] Impact of the pandemic

[00:31:16] Pre-pandemic declines

[00:32:26] Comparing international trends: PISA scores

[00:33:08] The role of smartphones

[00:35:26] TIMSS scores

[00:38:16] Long-term impact of declining academic achievement

[00:39:20] Efforts to address learning loss

[00:42:12] States that bucked the trend: the “Mississippi miracle”

[00:46:44] Low-performing states

[00:49:54] Future strategies for education systems

[00:53:22] Influencing educational policy

[00:55:49] Conclusion and final thoughts

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 33. Educational leadership: Improving math and literacy with Scott Hill https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-vpzf8-16d0c17

Ep 32. Identifying and educating advanced students with Jonathan Plucker https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-y6cxs-16ad6f1

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

Ep 18. Education myth-busting with Daisy Christodoulou https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-z2q9q-14ce080

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-45-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-45-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Mazamorra, Tarte Tatin, Willow Willow, Betty Dear, Lissa Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Dr. Anna Stokke and guest Dr. Zach Groshell answer listener questions in a special mailbag episode. They cover strategies for managing varying levels of math proficiency in the classroom, critique the Building Thinking Classrooms approach, and discuss whether number talks should be prioritized for developing math fact fluency. This discussion provides practical insights and critiques on current educational practices to help teachers improve math instruction.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction

02:44 Listener Question: Differentiating Direct Instruction

05:52 Zach's advice on differentiation

10:10 Listener Question: Building Thinking Classrooms

11:20 Are multiple access points effective?

15:14 Critique of Building Thinking Classrooms

19:03 Does research support using BTC?

20:53 Is everyone doing it wrong?

22:17 Observing BTC in action

23:46 Defining thinking and why mimicking is important

27:30 Permanent vs. non-permanent learning surfaces

29:04 The practicality of mini whiteboards

31:34 Advice from Anna & Zach on whether to use BTC

36:20 Listener question: Number talks and math fact fluency

37:53 Critique of number talks

40:09 Using effective methods for building math fact automaticity

42:19 Advice on mental math strategies

44:18 Using instructional time efficiently

46:21 Conclusion and book description

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 10 Maximizing learning through explicit instruction with Zach Groshell https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-px8h6-1443528

Ep 36 How to build automaticity with math facts: A practical guide https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-3ny3k-17323a9

Ep 2 Evidence-based teaching strategies with Paul Kirschner https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-zgw6i-13b33df Ep 3 The Science of Math with Amanda VanDerHeyden https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-bksbz-13c732d

Ep 23 Red flags in education research with Ben Solomon https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-cp5xt-156072c Ep 29 Math fact crisis: strategies for improving numeracy with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-u9y84-165d773 Ep 30 Math Fluency matters with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-pj6z6-166741e

Ep 41 Supporting students with math difficulties with Sarah Powell

https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ciqgm-17def6b

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-44-transcript

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Jamie Metsala, one of two content area experts on the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Right to Read public inquiry. Jamie shares her expertise on the importance of strong early instruction in foundational reading skills, the pitfalls of balanced literacy, and the urgent need for evidence-based practices in education. They explore the role of parent advocacy and the far-reaching implications of the Right to Read report, not just for Ontario, but for education systems across Canada and beyond.

Jamie explains why universal screening matters, how structured literacy benefits all readers, and what effective intervention looks like. They also discuss the importance of teacher preparation programs and ongoing professional development to equip educators with the tools they need to teach reading successfully.

With many provinces and states still relying on ineffective reading instruction, systemic change is critical. Jamie offers valuable advice for advocates, making this conversation essential listening for educators, parents, and anyone advocating for evidence-based education reform.

researchED Toronto 2025: https://researched.org.uk/event/researched-toronto-2025/

NOTE: The resource page contains links to reports, articles, and websites mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-43-resources

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction [00:04:06] The Ontario Human Rights Commission Right to Read inquiry [00:06:40] Reading achievement in Ontario and other provinces [00:13:19] The impact of balanced literacy and its flawed assumptions [00:19:21] What science says about teaching foundational reading skills [00:29:15] Universal screening and early interventions [00:32:30] Problems with Reading Recovery [00:36:32] How Canadian provinces are responding to the Right to Read inquiry [00:41:10] Teacher preparation and the resistance to change [00:50:25] Challenges in implementing evidence-based literacy instruction [00:52:06] Debunking myths: Do all students learn differently? [00:54:20] Structured literacy and the importance of fluency [01:00:43] Consequences of poor reading instruction [01:06:50] Advice for advocates [01:12:47] Final thoughts: The future of reading and math education

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 20 Reading and math: Parallels and pitfalls with Matthew Burns https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-8aj3f-1508af6

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

Ep 29 Math fact crisis: strategies for improving numeracy with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-u9y84-165d773

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-43-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-43-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Proliferate, Balti, Momentary Ease Podington Bear – Camp, Kitten, Squirrel Commotion

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Alex Smith, Director of Curriculum, and Justin Skycak, Director of Analytics, from Math Academy. Math Academy is an AI-powered online learning platform designed around science of learning principles. They discuss Bloom's 2 sigma problem and explore how Math Academy aims to address it. They also explain how the platform leverages knowledge graphs to support mastery learning and highlight key instructional strategies such as worked examples, spaced practice, and the testing effect.

They explore how Math Academy manages cognitive load to optimize learning as well as its success with adult learners and advanced students. They also discuss the concrete-pictorial-abstract approach in math instruction. To wrap up, Justin and Alex share exciting updates and future plans for Math Academy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in math education.

NOTE: The resource page contains resources and research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-42-resources

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction

04:41 Bloom's 2 sigma problem

10:11 Mastery learning

13:17 Math knowledge graph

21:03 Importance of prerequisite skills

26:42 Worked examples

33:11 Concrete-pictorial-abstract discussion

40:56 Incorporating spaced practice

47:47 Leveraging the testing effect

52:14 Independent learning and incentives

55:51 Math Academy for adult learners

01:01:49 Accelerating advanced students

01:09:57 The future of Math Academy

01:13:26 Final thoughts

RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 32. Identifying and educating advanced students with Jonathan Plucker https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-y6cxs-16ad6f1

Ep 15. Modern relevance in the math curriculum with Brian Conrad https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-gek66-148967a

Ep 7. How to excel in math and other tough subjects with Barbara Oakley https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-bqs8p-14068f2

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-42-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-42-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Balti, Betty Dear, Willow Willow, Partly Sage Podington Bear – Camp, Kitten

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

Join Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Sarah Powell, a leading expert in teaching students with math difficulties. They discuss the shortcomings of a recent joint position statement by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) on teaching math to students with disabilities.

Sarah critiques the statement’s failure to include critical evidence-based practices, such as explicit instruction, and its reliance on vague or unsupported recommendations. She highlights research-backed strategies that can truly help students struggling with math, emphasizing the ethical responsibility of educators, policymakers, and advocates to ensure effective math instruction. Sarah also co-authored a response to the position statement.

Note: The resource page for this episode contains a link to the NCTM/CEC position statement, Sarah’s group’s response, and other articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-41-resources

TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 05:06 Understanding math disabilities 08:19 The NCTM/CEC position statement 17:06 Does growth mindset help math outcomes? 17:53 Is UDL evidence based? 21:57 Evidence-based practices for teaching math 29:07 The omission of explicit instruction 30:55 Why explicit instruction is important 35:51 The IES practice guide 38:50 Consequences of poor instruction 41:44 The Influence of NCTM and CEC 43:26 Recommendations for effective math instruction 49:43 Preventing math difficulties 56:02 Final thoughts RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

Ep 29 Math fact crisis: Strategies for improving numeracy with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-u9y84-165d773

Ep 30 Math Fluency matters with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-pj6z6-166741e

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

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

Ep 3 The Science of Math with Amanda VanDerHeyden https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-bksbz-13c732d

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-41-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-41-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Thannoid, Tarte Tatin, Cornicob, Momentary Ease Podington Bear – Proliferate

Website: www.annastokke.com

X: @rastokke

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

Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social