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.