29. How Technology Can Improve Math Education (Dr Naomi Norman)

  Every year new technologies emerge that have the potential, or claim to have the potential, to revolutionize mathematics education. Countries around the world focus on improving the way mathematics is taught in their schools, and technology often plays a big role in that. However, it is widely recognized that technology does not always have the impact it was hoped to have. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has declared that “despite considerable investments in computers, Internet connections and software for education use, there is little solid evidence that greater computer use among students leads to better scores in mathematics and reading.” However, there are many very effective technologies, and ways of using them, that can greatly improve mathematics education. In this episode I am joined by an expert in mathematics education to discuss key ways that technology can help improve mathematics education in schools. Dr Naomi Norman is a creative, reflective and strategic consultant, researcher, reviewer and author who’s work spans research and practice in mathematics education. She works with some of the most prominent universities and educational companies around the world. Naomi obtained a doctorate in mathematics education at Oxford University, and has extensive consultancy, research and writing experience in the field. She has worked as a consultant on London 2012, BBC, Granada Media, Sesame Workshop, Pearson, Oxford University Press, Collins, and at the UK Government’s Department of Education, just to name a few. Naomi also held posts as Director of Learning at Epic (now Leo Learning) - one of the UK's leading e-learning companies. In academia she has undertaken research contracts for Oxford University, Imperial College London, and Pearson.