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Digging For The Why – the podcast for maths teachers of all key stages looking at continuity and why we need to dig for the why in our lessons.
Welcome to the Digging for the Why? podcast where we discuss everything from the transition between KS2 and KS3, to classroom culture and the shifting emotional landscape of maths education. You’ll hear all this and more from the perspective of two maths enthusiasts with over 40 years of combined teaching experience.
Digging for the yes, but why with Ed Southall
In this week’s episode, Alison and Andy and guest Ed Southall emphasise the need to nurture curiosity from an early age to encourage participation in the classroom.
We delve into the challenges of moving away from traditional teaching models and the benefits conceptual insight can bring to enrich students’ learning experiences.
Additionally, we explore how to create a classroom culture where students feel safe to make mistakes, share ideas and engage in discussion to enhance their understanding and shift traditional teaching practices.
Meet the hosts of Digging for the Why
Andy Lumley
Head of Learning Technology at MEI, former teacher with 20 years of experience in state-run and independent schools. Andy is passionate about making maths fun, and inspiring more young people to study maths further.
Alison Hopper
Primary Maths Specialist at MEI, experienced KS2 teacher, lecturer, and maths enthusiast. Alison has a particular focus on the transition from KS2 to KS3 and is fascinated by how children make sense of maths.
S2 E5 – Digging for the Yes, but Why with Ed Southall
In our final episode of Season Two of ‘Digging For The Why’, we talk to the Curriculum Lead for Oak National Academy, Ed Southall.
S2 E4 – Defining the Purpose of Maths with Susan Okereke
In this week’s episode, we invite Susan Okereke to open the conversation on whether students should study maths till age 18.
S2 E3 – Creating Safe and Encouraging Learning Environments with Alex Bellos
In this captivating episode, we invite Alex Bellos, renowned author, mathematician, and puzzle-maker, to join the discussion on why we ‘Dig for the Why’.
S2 E2 – The Power of Puzzles with Catriona Agg
Episode two of ‘Digging For The Why’ seasons two explores the idea of enquiry-based learning in mathematics education and the power of puzzles.
S2 E1 – Communicating Maths Effectively with Ben Sparks
Welcome back to Digging for the Why! Join us and our special guest, Ben Sparks, as we discuss everything from engaging teaching methods and practical applications to fostering curiosity among students.
S2 E0 – What is Season Two All About?
In this episode, we’ll glimpse into what season two is all about and what listeners can expect from the upcoming season.
S1 E8 – Does Technology Have a Place in the Classroom with Tom Button
In this episode, Alison and Andy are joined by Tom Button to discuss the role of technology in the classroom.
S1 E7 – Rich Tasks and Problem-Based Learning with Richard Perring
In this episode, Alison and Andy are joined by Richard Perring @LearningMaths to discuss the value of rich tasks and problem-based learning in maths education.
S1 E6 – Motivating and Challenging Students with Tom Rainbow
In this episode, Alison and Andy are joined by Tom Rainbow @CoreMathsTom to explore strategies for motivating and challenging students in maths.
S1 E5 – Why Can Students Appear Switched Off From Maths Already in Year 7?
In this episode of Digging for the Why, Alison and Andy examine why some students seem disengaged from maths by Year 7.
S1 E4 – Curiosity in the Classroom with Alison Clark-Wilson
Alison and Andy are joined by Alison Clark-Wilson to explore the role of curiosity in the classroom and fostering an environment to ask “why”.
S1 E3 – Managing the Transition from KS2 to KS3 with Vicky Osborne
Hosts Andy Lumley and Alison Hopper discuss the best ways to manage the transition from KS2 to KS3 with Vicky Osborne.
S1 E2 – Teaching for Mastery with Steph Kirk
Hosts Andy Lumley and Alison Hopper explore the concept of mastery in mathematics education with Steph Kirk.
S1 E1 – Teaching Tricks
Explore effective math teaching and classroom insights in season 1 episode 1 of the Digging for the Why podcast.
S1 E0 – Introducing Your Hosts!
Meet your hosts Andy Lumley and Alison Hopper and hear what this podcast and season 1 is all about.