Episodes

  • Boosting attention and learning with Blake Harvard (Ep 38)
    Dec 20 2024

    Join math professor, Anna Stokke, in conversation with Blake Harvard, a secondary teacher in Alabama. They discuss insights from his new book, Do I Have Your Attention?, including how he incorporates cognitive psychology into his teaching.

    Their conversation explores topics like cognitive architecture, memory constraints, attention contagion and common learning pitfalls. Blake provides practical strategies for implementing retrieval practice and spaced practice, highlighting their benefits in reducing test anxiety and enhancing long term learning outcomes.

    The episode wraps up with a thought-provoking discussion on creativity, where Blake challenges the notion that traditional schooling stifles creativity—arguing instead that a strong knowledge foundation fosters it.

    Whether you’re an educator or simply curious about the science of learning, this episode offers valuable insights for teaching and learning in any subject.

    NOTE: The resource page contains resources and research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-38-resources

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Introduction

    02:44 Blake's Teaching Journey

    03:13 Discovering cognitive psychology

    05:18 Understanding memory constraints

    13:55 Attention contagion

    21:54 Overcoming overconfidence in learning

    25:32 The role of forgetting in learning

    27:53 Maximizing learning with effective strategies

    28:36 The power of retrieval and spaced practice

    29:45 Retrieval practice in math

    33:10 Diminishing cues retrieval practice

    36:21 The Brain Book Buddy strategy

    41:13 The importance of honest self-assessment

    42:56 Reducing test anxiety with retrieval practice

    45:48 The benefits of spaced practice

    47:06 Last lesson, last week, last month strategy

    49:38 Debunking myths about creativity in education

    52:48 Final thoughts and advice for teachers

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

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

    Ep. 13 Powerful teaching with Patrice Bain https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-d77g4-14602e3

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

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

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-38-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-38-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – No Squirrel Connection, Thannoid, Momentary Ease, Betty Dear Podington Bear – Camp Scott Holmes – Happy Logo

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
  • Homework that works with Jo Castelino (Ep 37)
    Nov 29 2024

    Join Anna Stokke as she chats with Dr. Jo Castelino, a secondary school teacher, to discuss her new book on homework. They discuss the vital role of homework in education, exploring why it's important, how much should be assigned and what types of homework are most effective. Jo shares insights from research and her experiences, addressing common criticisms of homework, strategies for creating a school culture that supports homework, methods for leveraging feedback, and handling issues like cheating. They also discuss the cyclical relationship between homework and self-regulatory behaviours that contribute to higher academic achievement. Jo gives valuable practical advice on how to design effective homework and how to get both students and parents on board. This episode will be of interest to educators, parents and school administrators.

    NOTE: The resource page contains resources and research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-37-resources

    00:00 Introduction

    02:18 Background

    03:30 Writing about homework

    06:30 Research on homework

    12:57 How much homework: Cooper 10-minute rule

    15:26 Role of homework in how students learn

    22:37 Designing Effective Homework

    25:52 Discussing flipped classrooms

    28:55 How often to give homework

    36:10 Scaffolding homework for struggling students

    36:56 Providing feedback

    40:06 Homework challenge levels

    43:23 Homework and disadvantaged students

    47:17 Creating a school culture for homework

    48:06 Rewards and consequences

    54:39 Getting parents on board

    57:55 Addressing cheating

    01:03:25 Convincing administrators about homework

    01:05:05 Conclusion

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

    Ep. 31 Exploring evidence for equitable education with Nidhi Sachdeva and Jim Hewitt https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-fjdnt-1685615

    Ep. 14 Stress and learning with Dan Rosen https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-94vv4-147a254

    Ep. 13 Powerful teaching with Patrice Bain https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-d77g4-14602e3

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-37-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-37-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Little Poder, Momentary Ease, Betty Dear Podington Bear – Camp

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Bluesky: @rastokke.bsky.social

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 7 mins
  • How to Build Automaticity with Math Facts: A Practical Guide (Ep 36)
    Nov 8 2024

    This solo episode, hosted by Anna Stokke, provides educators, parents, and students with practical, research-backed methods to develop math fact automaticity. These techniques have been shown to work with a wide range of students across age, skills and settings. Key techniques discussed include flashcards, cover-copy-compare, taped problems, incremental rehearsal and explicit timing, with detailed instructions for how best to implement each technique.

    Call to action: If you know someone who might benefit from this episode, please share it with them!

    NOTE: The resource page contains resources to help listeners implement the techniques discussed as well as supporting research: http://annastokke.com/ep-36-resources

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Introduction

    01:19 The Importance of math fact automaticity

    03:00 Understanding automaticity

    06:17 Acquisition stage

    06:50 Fluency stage

    08:35 What basic facts?

    09:06 When should students have math facts mastered?

    09:49 Pairing the stimulus with the response

    11:13 Using flashcards effectively

    13:25 Incremental Rehearsal

    15:13 Cover, Copy, Compare Method

    17:49 Taped Problems: Beat the Computer

    18:57 Should you use games?

    20:52 Explicit timing for fluency building

    21:14 Why timed practice is essential

    22:31 When to introduce timed practice

    24:28 Consistency and Daily Practice

    25:01 Conclusion and Call to Action

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

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

    Ep 29. Math fact crisis with Brian Poncy https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-u9y84-165d773

    Ep 20. Reading and math: parallels and pitfalls with Matthew Burns https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-8aj3f-1508af6 Ep 17. Do timed tests cause math anxiety? with Robin Codding https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-9qahp-14aed8a

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

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-36-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-36-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Momentary Ease, Betty Dear Podington Bear – Camp Scott Holmes – Happy Logo 3

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Preparation for university math with Darja Barr and Dan Wolczuk (Ep 35)
    Oct 25 2024

    Join Anna Stokke in conversation with two university math instructors, Dr. Darja Barr from the University of Manitoba and Dan Wolczuk from the University of Waterloo.

    What does it take to succeed in university math? Which topics are most critical for success in university calculus? They cover these questions and more in this episode, which is a must-listen for educators, parents and aspiring university students.

    They talk about the importance of algebraic fluency and other key concepts essential for success in calculus. They examine the gap between high school preparation and university expectations, touching on grade inflation, the role of diagnostic tests and the value of high school exams with a discussion on the testing effect along the way. They highlight the importance of effective study habits, perseverance, and the ability to self-assess and seek help when needed.

    NOTE: The resource page contains useful information regarding the transition from high school to university math: http://annastokke.com/ep-35-resources

    TIMESTAMPS

    [00:00:00] Introduction

    [00:03:14] Description of university calculus class

    [00:04:55] Why preparation for calculus is important

    [00:07:47] Degrees requiring calculus

    [00:08:36] High school topics needed for success in calculus

    [00:11:11] Importance of algebraic fluency

    [00:14:29] Trigonometry and committing facts to memory

    [00:22:30] Diagnostic tests

    [00:26:14] Relationship between pre-calculus and university calculus grades

    [00:32:36] Physical invigilation vs remote diagnostic tests

    [00:34:32] Challenges of high school to university transition

    [00:38:07] Grade inflation and the role of standardized testing

    [00:43:28] Importance of high school exams

    [00:45:29] The testing effect

    [00:50:33] Initiatives to support university students

    [00:57:06] Characteristics of a successful university math student

    [00:59:43] Advice for first-year university students

    [01:02:31] Closing remarks

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

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

    Ep 11. California’s math controversy with Jelani Nelson https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-d3bai-144ec76

    Ep 7. How to excel in math and other tough subjects 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

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

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-35-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-35-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Little Poder, Thannoid Podington Bear – Camp, Kitten

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Transforming education through behaviour science with Kimberly Berens (Ep 34)
    Oct 4 2024

    Join Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Kimberly Berens in Episode 34 of Chalk & Talk. Kimberly is a behaviour scientist, an author, and the founder of FIT Learning. They discuss the fundamentals of behaviour science, the importance of measurable outcomes, the role of reinforcement, and the application of behaviour science to effective instruction, particularly in math. They also cover concepts like fluency, retention, and endurance in learning. They discuss the effectiveness of Direct Instruction, precision teaching and curriculum-based measurement in bringing about significant improvements in student performance.

    Kimberly is a passionate advocate for systematic educational change based on scientific approaches. This episode will be of interest to educators, parents, policy makers, and anyone with an interest in improving educational outcomes.

    NOTE: The resource page contains a list of research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-34-resources

    TIMESTAMPS:

    [00:00:00] Introduction [00:02:25] Understanding behaviour science [00:05:23] Behaviour science vs. cognitive science [00:08:28] Defining fluency [00:12:40] Applying behaviour science to math instruction [00:18:01] Do different students learn differently? [00:22:43] How to measure learning [00:28:47] Math anxiety, math trauma and the problem with labels [00:34:56] Combining DI, precision teaching and curriculum-based measurement [00:38:40] The problem with hand raising [00:42:00] Flexible ability grouping [00:47:20] Breaking ineffective traditions [00:51:49] Measuring conceptual understanding [00:57:41] Project Follow Through [01:00:20] The Great Falls Precision Teaching Project [01:03:28] Fit Learning's practices and outcomes [01:06:37] Final thoughts and call to action

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

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

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

    Ep 17. Do timed tests cause math anxiety? with Robin Codding https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-9qahp-14aed8a

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-34-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-34-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Little Poder, Tall Harvey Podington Bear – Camp, Kitten

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Educational leadership: Improving math and literacy with Scott Hill (Ep 33)
    Sep 13 2024

    Host Anna Stokke speaks with Scott Hill, Superintendent of Evergreen School Division. They discuss Evergreen's proactive approach to improving education, particularly focusing on mathematics and literacy. Scott shares how his division tackled low math scores by interviewing students, addressing behaviour issues, employing structured instructional methods, and providing consistent common assessments.

    They also touch on broader pedagogical narratives, the role of schools in society, and the importance of setting higher expectations for students. Additionally, Scott highlights the critical strides made in early literacy instruction, with Evergreen School Division being recognized with a national award from Dyslexia Canada. A key takeaway from this episode is that strong leadership, data-informed decision making, and a commitment to addressing weaknesses can significantly impact student learning.

    TIMESTAMPS

    [00:00:00] Introduction

    [00:03:39] Evergreen School Division's math challenges and student feedback

    [00:08:43] Grade inflation and reporting to parents

    [00:11:24] Divisional changes to improve math scores

    [00:14:42] Higher expectations for students

    [00:20:05] The role of schools in society

    [00:26:02] Is inquiry-based pedagogy accomplishing the stated goals?

    [00:30:45] Instructional caricatures and foundational skills

    [00:37:09] Setting behavioural standards

    [00:40:02] Cell phones in schools

    [00:46:01] Common assessments and provincial exams

    [00:56:30] Award-winning literacy initiatives

    [01:01:08] Final thoughts

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

    Ep 1 Math and the myth of ability with John Mighton https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-22c7a-139dc72

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

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

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-33-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-33-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Cornicob Podington Bear – Camp

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Identifying and educating advanced students with Jonathan Plucker (Ep 32)
    Aug 23 2024

    Math professor Anna Stokke speaks with Dr. Jonathan Plucker, a professor and director of the Education Policy Program at Johns Hopkins University, about advanced education, acceleration and academic streaming. Jonathan discusses the flaws in traditional methods of identifying advanced students and advocates for universal screening to ensure equitable access to advanced programs. They cover various interventions, including acceleration, and discuss the drawbacks of de-streaming or anti-acceleration policies. They also discuss equity concerns.

    They talk about flexible ability grouping, the need to challenge stereotypes about advanced students, and more. Jonathan emphasizes that education should meet the needs of every student, including students who excel academically, and he provides concrete advice for accomplishing that. A key takeaway from this episode is that offering advanced programs benefits all students and, ideally, every school should include advanced programming. This episode is a must-listen for educators of any subject, parents and policymakers.

    NOTE: The resource page contains a list of research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-32-resources

    TIMESTAMPS

    [00:00:00] Introduction

    [00:03:42] Terminology: gifted or advanced?

    [00:07:58] Are labels a problem?

    [00:10:54] Identifying advanced students

    [00:21:13] Equity in advanced programs

    [00:25:28] Meeting the needs of advanced students

    [00:27:46] Effective interventions for advanced students

    [00:31:29] Enrichment vs. acceleration

    [00:34:59] Supporting learners beyond minimum competency

    [00:38:42] The case of San Francisco Unified School District

    [00:43:14] Problems with de-streaming and anti-acceleration programs

    [00:48:16] Flexible ability grouping: A solution?

    [00:53:18] Who benefits from flexible ability grouping?

    [00:54:53] The impact of de-streaming on teachers and students

    [00:58:42] What needs to change to support advanced students

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

    Ep 11. California’s math controversy with Jelani Nelson, Part I https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-d3bai-144ec76

    Ep 12. California’s math controversy with Jelani Nelson, Part II https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-93gm5-144fc4c

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

    Ep 19. The Calculus Project with Adrian Mims https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-fkbjk-14eb0a7

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

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-32-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-32-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – No Squirrel Connection, Cornicob, Balti Podington Bear – Camp

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Exploring evidence for equitable education with Nidhi Sachdeva and Jim Hewitt (Ep 31)
    Aug 1 2024

    Join math professor Anna Stokke in conversation with Dr. Nidhi Sachdeva and Dr. Jim Hewitt, educators and researchers at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. They discuss their co-designed course on the science of learning and its impact on educational practice. The episode expands on their recent presentation on equitable instruction at ResearchEd Canada, covering instructional techniques effective in closing the achievement gap.

    Key topics include explicit instruction, the benefits of retrieval practice, formative assessments, and the importance of addressing educational myths. They also explore the implications of Project Follow Through and evaluate other educational approaches like collaborative learning, culturally responsive teaching, and social-emotional learning. The conversation emphasizes the need for evidence-based strategies to promote equity in education.

    This episode is essential listening for educators, parents, and anyone committed to narrowing education achievement gaps.

    NOTE: The resource page contains a list of research articles mentioned in the episode: annastokke.com/ep-31-resources

    TIMESTAMPS

    [00:00:00] Introduction [00:03:33] Key topics in the Science of Learning course [00:09:38] Integrating microlessons into instruction [00:12:50] Debunking educational myths [00:17:17] Equitable instruction [00:21:21] Inclusive instruction [00:22:18] Reducing inequities 1: Explicit instruction [00:30:27] Project Follow Through [00:35:10] Reducing inequities 2: Retrieval practice [00:41:34] Reducing inequities 3: Formative assessment & feedback [00:46:55] Research on small-group learning [00:51:09] Culturally responsive teaching [00:54:14] Social-emotional learning [00:55:52] Strengths and limitations of differentiated instruction [00:58:41] Advocating for science of learning courses [01:00:12] Closing thoughts on equitable instruction

    RELEVANT PREVIOUS EPISODES

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

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

    Ep 22. Mindsets and misconceptions with Carl Hendrick https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-78zv9-15493b1

    Ep 24. Raising student achievement with Dylan Wiliam https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-kduiw-15bba36

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

    EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-31-transcript

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.annastokke.com/ep-31-resources

    MUSIC

    Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it Blue Dot Sessions – Little Poder, Tall Harvey Podington Bear – Camp, Kitten

    Website: www.annastokke.com

    X: @rastokke

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

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 3 mins