🎙️ Rethinking Math Education with John SanGiovanni
Math education is changing fast — and few people are leading that change more thoughtfully than John SanGiovanni, a math educator, district leader, and author of numerous influential books. In this episode of our math education podcast, John shares the conversations we should be having about teaching math — and what’s getting in the way.
💡 What We Should Really Be Talking About in Math Education
Too often, math conversations focus on test scores and pacing guides. But as John reminds us, the real change happens when we talk about things like dedicated math specialists, instructional time, and the tools we use to engage students. Why do we think computers are the only way to make math exciting? And what if deeper human connection was the key all along?
John offers a refreshingly candid take on what’s missing from our current math dialogue — and why focusing on instructional quality, not gadgets or gimmicks, is the way forward.
🧩 Building Math Understanding — From Repetition to Real Thinking with John
Math isn’t just about memorizing steps. It’s about making connections — understanding how and why concepts fit together. John breaks down how students struggle to acquire, repeat, and generalize math ideas because they don’t always see the full picture of how topics build.
In this episode, you’ll hear practical insights on helping students make sense of math, not just perform it. From lesson planning to classroom discussions, John shares how educators can guide students toward meaning — and confidence.
🔍 The Role of HQIM — And What We Still Need to Figure Out
High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) have become a buzzword in education circles. But what does “high quality” actually mean in practice? John offers a nuanced look at how HQIM can support teachers — when paired with strong instructional vision and professional learning.
This segment invites leaders and teachers to rethink their approach to curriculum adoption. It’s not about following scripts; it’s about empowering teachers to make meaningful instructional choices.
❤️ Why This Conversation with John Matters
This episode isn’t about more data or more tests. It’s about redefining what good math instruction looks like — grounded in equity, curiosity, and real understanding. John’s insights remind us that math is a human endeavor — and when we teach it that way, every learner can thrive.
💻 Links Mentioned in this Episode
Books by John SanGiovanni:
📘 Productive Math Struggle: A 6-Point Action Plan for Fostering Perseverance
Website – https://www.sangiomath.com/
🔗 Listen, Learn, and Lead Change
🎧 Tune in now to hear the full conversation with John SanGiovanni — and explore what’s next for math instruction and curriculum design.
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