Zooming In on Math Anxiety and Gamification with Dr. Aditya Nagrath
Outline
Introduction and Background of Dr. Aditya Nagrath
Melissa Milner introduces Dr. Aditya Nagrath, who has a PhD in math and computer science from the University of Denver and founded Elephant Learning.
Dr. Aditya Nagrath explains that Elephant Learning has helped over 175,000 students learn over 220,000 years of mathematics, guaranteeing that children will learn at least one year of math over three months with 30 minutes of weekly use.
Melissa Milner mentions Dr. Nagrath’s book on math anxiety and asks if they should start with math anxiety or the genesis of Elephant Learning.
Dr. Nagrath decides to start with math anxiety, noting that half of first and second graders and half of all Americans report math anxiety.
Understanding Math Anxiety and Teaching Mathematics as a Language
Dr. Nagrath explains that math anxiety is often due to a lack of understanding of the mathematical language, which leads to confusion in conversations about math.
Melissa Milner asks for clarification on whether Dr. Nagrath is talking about concepts or basic counting, and Dr. Nagrath elaborates on the conceptual understanding of numbers.
Dr. Nagrath uses the example of counting to 10 and explains that understanding multiplication involves applying mathematical concepts to real-world problems.
The Common Core standards define conceptual understanding through application, and Dr. Nagrath emphasizes that understanding math is similar to learning a language.
Gamification and Experiential Learning in Elephant Learning
Melissa Milner inquires about how gamification helps with understanding deeper mathematical concepts and language.
Dr. Nagrath describes Elephant Learning as experiential learning for students, using a puzzle game format similar to Angry Birds.
The game allows students to gain intuition into mathematical ideas by directly interacting with them.
Early age education researchers have shown that activities like those in Elephant Learning are highly effective for teaching mathematical concepts.
Impact of Elephant Learning on Math Anxiety and Classroom Performance
Melissa Milner asks if students who use Elephant Learning show reduced math anxiety and improved performance in the classroom.
Dr. Nagrath explains that testimonials from parents indicate that students who use the program enjoy math class more and show improved understanding.
Dr. Nagrath discusses the gap in understanding between low-income students and their peers, noting that Elephant Learning helps bridge this gap.
The program is designed to help students understand their teachers and participate in classroom conversations, reducing math anxiety.
Application and Cost of Elephant Learning in Classrooms
Melissa Milner asks about the cost and application of Elephant Learning in real-world classrooms.
Dr. Nagrath explains that the program is designed for 10 minutes of daily use, five days a week, and can be used for all students, not just those struggling with math.
The program provides conceptual training for teachers, helping them work with students who are behind and mitigating anxiety in the classroom.
Dr. Nagrath mentions that the program includes coaching sessions to help teachers and students, ensuring that the program is effective.
Adoption and Success of Elephant Learning in Schools
Melissa Milner inquires about the number of school districts and schools using Elephant Learning.
Dr. Nagrath mentions that last year, about 30 schools used the program, and they are in talks with more districts.
The program has been available to parents since 2018, and its adoption in schools is relatively new.
Dr. Nagrath discusses the pricing structure, which includes a coaching package that guarantees results.
Retention and Long-term Impact of Elephant Learning
Melissa Milner asks about the retention of math skills learned through Elephant Learning.
Dr. Nagrath explains that students can re-enter the system if they need to, and it will adapt back to their level of understanding.
The program is designed to help students retain and build on their mathematical skills over time.
Dr. Nagrath emphasizes the importance of continued exposure to mathematical concepts to maintain and improve understanding.
Personal Experience with Math Anxiety and Teaching Strategies
Melissa Milner asks Dr. Nagrath about his personal experience with math anxiety and teaching strategies.
Dr. Nagrath shares that he has had moments of difficulty with math but emphasizes that everyone can learn mathematics with the right support.
Dr. Nagrath discusses the importance of believing in students' ability to learn math and meeting them at their level of understanding.
He mentions the concept of growth mindset and the need for teachers to be supportive and encouraging.
Challenges and Solutions for Math Anxiety in Students
Melissa Milner and Dr. Nagrath discuss the challenges of math anxiety in students and strategies to address it.
Dr. Nagrath emphasizes the importance of empathy and meeting students at their level of understanding.
He mentions the use of visual aids and hands-on activities to help students grasp mathematical concepts.
Dr. Nagrath highlights the need for teachers to be consistent and supportive in their approach to teaching math.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps for Implementing Elephant Learning
Melissa Milner asks how educators can reach Dr. Nagrath and learn more about Elephant Learning.
Dr. Nagrath provides information about the Elephant Learning website and the process for scheduling a pilot program.
He emphasizes the importance of understanding the needs of teachers and students and tailoring the program to meet those needs.
Dr. Nagrath expresses his commitment to empowering children with mathematics and helping them overcome math anxiety.