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.