The case for practice and the power of Math Corps with Alex Kontorovich (Ep 52)

Chalk & Talk

Jul 28, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 52

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Episode description

In this episode, Anna Stokke has an engaging conversation Dr. Alex Kontorovich, a math professor at Rutgers University with a strong passion for math outreach. They explore why practice in math is often undervalued compared to disciplines like music or sports. They also discuss Math Corps, which is a summer math program for kids that combines evidence-based learning strategies with high expectations. Alex recently founded a Math Corps chapter in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The episode wraps up with a lively discussion about A Mathematician's Lament by Paul Lockhart, sparked by a comment from a listener. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, a mathematician, or simply someone interested in education, this episode has something for you.

This episode is available in video at www.youtube.com/@chalktalk-stokke

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:00] Introduction

[00:02:54] The value of math practice

[00:08:11] Engaging in math outreach

[00:11:44] Rutgers Math Corps: Structure and curriculum

[00:21:41] When research confirms what experience already knew

[00:24:05] Why times tables fluency matters

[00:30:07] Science of learning techniques in Math Corps

[00:35:42] Using hand gestures and building classroom culture

[00:40:01] Gamification

[00:42:23] Why well-meaning schools still produce poor results