Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia masterclass: Tools & Techniques

Categorised in: Insights | Posted on: 7 January 2022

At Osborne Cawkwell Tuition we encourage tutors to keep abreast of current teaching strategies. Tutors continued professional development helps them provide students the highest quality support.

One of the maths and science tutors on our books, Pan Xue, attended a dyscalculia masterclass and sent us his thoughts.

I recently had the pleasure of attending the dyscalculia masterclass organised by Positive Dyslexia, which featured 4 of the most eminent dyscalculia specialists including Professor Steve Chinn and Professor Mahesh Sharma. In the past, I have attended seminars on dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other special learning differences during my PGCE. However, none of my previous experiences had come close to the level of detail and insight offered by these speakers.

Dyscalculia tips

Throughout the day, the speakers introduced a variety of tools and techniques such as Cuisenaire Rods, Five/Ten Frames, Numicons, and Visual Cluster Cards. The experts revealed ways of using them effectively in teaching. More importantly, however, they offered theoretical rationalisations as to why and how these tools assisted student’s learning. They also discussed the origins and effects of maths anxiety with respect to dyscalculia. As well as offering us an insight into the personal differences in cognitive approach in maths.

“I am now equipped with the necessary knowledge to understand how dyscalculia impedes maths student’s progress. In addition, I know how the prominent signs of dyscalculia can be identified. I see incredible opportunities in using these tools and techniques to further my own teaching. I look forward to helping all my students generate a better sense of numbers.”

Pan, Maths and Science Tutor

The Tutors Association The Tutors Association The Good School Guide Tooled up