324: Cultivating Student Curiosity and Engagement in the Thinking Mathematics Classroom

Getting Unstuck – Cultivating Curiosity

Guest Dr. Peter Liljedahl is a Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University and author of the best-selling book, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics (Grades K-12): 14 Teaching Practices for Enhancing Learning. Peter is a former high school mathematics teacher whose work emphasizes collaborative learning for a more effective mathematics education. Most recently, he received the Læringsprisen [Learning Award] for Changing the way we think about Education in Denmark (2022). Summary

The podcast episode explores Professor Liljedahl’s journey in understanding how teaching practices affect student learning in math classrooms. He shares his observations of a teacher struggling to implement problem-solving, leading to student frustration and disengagement. This prompted him to research the psychology of mathematics education and develop the "thinking mathematics classroom" approach, emphasizing practices such as using vertical whiteboards, random grouping of no more than three students, and note-making.

The discussion delves into the benefits of these methods, such as increased student engagement, collaboration, and the ability for teachers to provide timely support. Dr. Liljedahl also addresses the challenges of balancing direct instruction and messy learning, as well as the origins and difficulties of the algebra curriculum.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of education, emphasizing the importance of teachers and the need for more training in neuroscience and child psychology.

Bonus tracks

I’ve also included two bonus tracts with Peter and Danelle on my website blog post for this episode. One speaks specifically about student note-making, another of Peter’s practices. The second tract speaks to Algebra's challenge to student success.

Social Media Website- https://www.buildingthinkingclassrooms.com/

Twitter- @pgliljedahl

Instagram - @buildingthinikingclassrooms

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BTCthinks

About Jeff

Jeff Ikler is the Director of Quetico Leadership and Career Coaching. “Quetico” (KWEH-teh-co). He works with leaders in all aspects of life to identify and overcome obstacles in their desired future. He came to the field of coaching after a 35-year career in educational publishing. Prior to his career in educational publishing, Jeff taught high school U.S. history and government.

Jeff has hosted the “Getting Unstuck—Cultivating Curiosity” podcast for 5 years. The guests and topics he explores are designed to help listeners think differently about the familiar and welcome the new as something to consider. He is also the co-host of the Cultivating Resilience – A Whole Community Approach to Alleviating Trauma in Schools, which promotes mental health and overall wellness.

Jeff co-authored Shifting: How School Leaders Can Create a Culture of Change. Shifting integrates leadership development and change mechanics in a three-part change framework to help guide school leaders and their teams toward productive change.