Disqus - Latest Comments for matthewktabor

Re: Why Math Instruction That Focuses On 'Understanding' Cheats Kids

matthewktabor — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 11:29:32 -0000

Garelick's point about educators' lack of familiarity with what older "traditional" math curricula is -- and isn't -- is extremely important. We've seen a national policy shift based on a faulty understanding of how math has been taught. Their over-simplified reductions of the how/why are flat-out fiction, and recognizing that is a critical part of putting the 2017 math debate into a useful context.

That fiction has informed everything from teacher training to curriculum selection to the massive PR push around it all, and at this point it's become gospel. That's troubling in a sector that works best when we have a full understanding of what we've done -- otherwise we're trying to build on a shaky foundation.

Every parent should ask both math teachers and administrators to provide a basic rundown of the progression of math education from the 1950's to now... and be willing to correct the record when those educators near-inevitably muck up the history.

Re: The invaluableness of 'obscure' words and the SAT

matthewktabor — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 13:30:22 -0000

"Jane Austin is known for her extensive vocabulary, which can cause eye rolling"

She's also known for being Jane Austen.

Heal thyself, physician.

Re: Being vindicated is a good thing

matthewktabor — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 15:01:27 -0000

Please don't be shy about posting the apology once you receive it.

Re: Well gee I must be a liar

matthewktabor — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:44:54 -0000

I'd like to congratulate you on your recent membership to the LHM&DDH Society.

If you aren't familiar with that acronym, that's the Liars, Hacks, Meanies and Doo-Doo Heads Society. I'm sure you'll start receiving our newsletter in coming weeks.

What a bizarre reaction - I just don't understand it. First, others confirmed the theme viewer. I was one of them; I was pleased that it was a great visual organization that would help me choose a new theme sometime in the next few months. When I load the URL now, it's different than it was when I left the comment on your original post. Simple as that.

With regard the linkbait implications, they're tasteless and defy both common sense and experience. As you said, it would have been the weakest attempt at linkbaiting I've seen in a long time. It also contrasts with your massive body of work on this site, none of which characterizes you as a linkbaiter.

And, really, what possible [and plausible] motivation would you have to fake it? This is one of the dumbest accusations I've come across in the blogosphere - ever.

You're due an apology. We're due an explanation for why Lloyd would bother to defame a blogger.