Play, Curiosity, and the Joy of Math with Dan Finkel

Описание: What if math could feel like play? 🎲 In this inspiring conversation, mathematician and educator Dan Finkel (founder of Math for Love) joins Vicki Davis, the Cool Cat Teacher, to explore how curiosity, struggle, and play can completely transform the way we teach — and experience — math.

From the power of starting with questions to why productive struggle is essential for deep learning, this episode will help teachers, parents, and students rediscover the joy of mathematics.

📘 Show Notes & Resources:
👉 Full Episode & Links: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e919

🎯 Highlights:
00:00 Transforming Mathematics Education
02:19 How Can You View Math as Play?
02:48 The Power of Play in Math Learning
04:29 Curiosity-Driven Math: Starting with Questions
05:00 Exploring Rich Questions in Mathematics
06:59 The Importance of Productive Struggle
09:37 Radical Intellectual Hospitality in Math Education
09:50 Advice for New Math Teachers
10:50 The Role of AI in Math Education
12:49 Rethinking Education Funding and Approaches
14:02 Clixo – Today’s Sponsor: The STEAM Toy for Your Makerspace

🎓 About Dan Finkel:
Dan Finkel is the founder of Math for Love, creator of Prime Climb and Tiny Polka Dot, and a contributor to TED-Ed and The New York Times. He’s on a mission to help every learner see math as creative, curious, and deeply human.

🧲 Episode Sponsor: Clixo
Today’s episode is sponsored by Clixo
, an award-winning magnetic play system that turns 2D shapes into endless 3D creations. Perfect for makerspaces, STEM labs, classrooms, and kids at home, Clixo encourages creativity, design thinking, and hands-on fun.
🎁 Get Clixo at Target → https://www.clixo.com/pages/target/

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