Understanding Dyscalculia

In this episode of the podcast, we speak to Cat Eadle, a teacher, dyscalculia specialist and co-founder of the Dyscalculia Network. Our conversation explores what dyscalculia is, how it differs from other maths difficulties, and how teachers can facilitate an early diagnosis. We also discuss the importance of teaching ‘maths for life’ skills, dyscalculia in the secondary maths classroom, and how teaching for mastery approaches can support dyscalculic students of all ages to do and enjoy maths. A transcript (PDF) of this episode is available to download. Show notes Taking part in the discussion: Cat Eadle, The Dyscalculia Network Julia Thomson, Communications Manager, NCETM. Episode chapters 00:06 Introduction and welcome 00:18 Understanding dyscalculia and its impact 01:03 Cat Eadle: dyscalculia specialist 01:43 The birth of the Dyscalculia Network 03:13 Identifying dyscalculia: signs and symptoms 05:14 The importance of dyscalculia diagnosis 08:03 Supporting students with dyscalculia 10:40 The prevalence of dyscalculia 14:14 The mastery approach to teaching maths 16:42 The struggles of adults with dyscalculia 19:56 Resources, further reading and events 21:53 Conclusion. Useful links Dyscalculia Network website Dyscalculia Awareness Day 2024: three separate online events for parents (23/02/24), adults (29/02/24) and educators (01/03/24) The Dyscalculia Show 2024 at Birmingham NEC on 15/03/24 and 16/03/24 The Dyscalculia Assessment by Jane Emerson and Patricia Babtie (2013, Bloomsbury) The Dyscalculia Solution: Teaching Number Sense by Jane Emerson and Patricia Babtie (2014, Bloomsbury) Ronit Bird website: games for dyscalculic learners Steve Chinn website Judy Hornigold website The Maths and Dyscalculia Assessment by Robert Jennings and Jane Emerson (available for pre-order, published on 18/07/24, Jessica Kingsley Publishers) Explore previous episodes of the NCETM podcast in our archive.