John Mighton > Quotes

“If non-linear leaps in intelligence and ability are possible, why haven't these effects been observed in our schools? I believe the answer lies in the profound inertia of human thought: when an entire society believes something is impossible, it suppresses, by its very way of life, the evidence that would contradict that belief.”
― John Mighton

“Present new material in small steps with sufficient practice after each step. Ask a large number of questions and check the responses of all students. Provide models. Guide student practice. Check for student understanding. Obtain a high success rate. Provide scaffolds for difficult tasks. Require and monitor independent practice.”
― John Mighton, All Things Being Equal: Why Math Is the Key to a Better World

“I believe that all students should have a right to tackle rich, interesting problems that test their ingenuity and stretch their capacity to persevere in the face of challenges. But the research shows that they are more likely to benefit from working on these types of problems if they are first allowed to master the skills and concepts they need to do this kind of work.”
― John Mighton, All Things Being Equal: Why Math Is the Key to a Better World