#181 Mark McCourt: Tips for teachers, Mastery, Reflections and Retirement

Where to begin? Mark McCourt has done it all. From maths teacher, head of maths, head teacher, Ofsted inspector, CEO, founder, and the creator of MathsConf. I first met Mark almost 20 years ago, and have learned from him ever since. This is Mark’s 3rd appearance on the podcast, and given he recently announced his retirement, I fear it may be his last. To access the show-notes, please visit: mrbartonmaths.com/blog/mark-mccourt-part-3/ Time-stamps: Retirement and career changes. (4:43) Potential and ability in education. (13:30) The meaning of "ability" in education. (21:31) Teaching methods and class organization. (25:30) Teacher performance and subject-specific knowledge. (33:28) Education trends and subject matter in schools. (38:06) Education sector fear and lack of agency among teachers. (44:14) Assessing student learning and understanding. (53:21) Teaching methods and mini whiteboards. (58:59) Maths education and manipulatives. (1:03:41) Using manipulatives in math education. (1:10:22) Maths education and teacher training. (1:16:35) Inadequate teacher training in the UK. (1:22:47) Teaching math concepts in a personalized manner. (1:28:42) Math education and assessment methods. (1:33:34) Formative assessment and teacher vulnerability. (1:41:00) Teaching mathematics with formal language and forward-thinking methods. (1:44:53) Teaching methods and fear of inspections. (1:51:26) The power of education and knowledge transfer. (1:59:05) Education as a maturation process. (2:05:01) Mastery approach in education with a focus on math and FE. (2:15:16) FE college math reset issues. (2:20:03) Improving mathematical literacy through precise language use. (2:27:29) Educational approach and its impact on school performance. (2:33:45) The importance of shared values and beliefs in schools. (2:40:44) The effectiveness of Ofsted and potential systemic problems. (2:46:23) Ofsted's effectiveness and potential biases. (2:52:34) Education system and curriculum design. (2:56:56) Maths education, curriculum, and technology. (3:04:41) Mastery-based education and assessments. (3:09:48) The role of teachers in education and the potential for online learning. (3:14:19) The importance of classroom experience in teaching. (3:21:58) Career challenges and personal growth. (3:26:44) Teaching, grief, and pride in education. (3:31:41) Retirement, relationships, and personal growth. (3:40:39) Education, values, and priorities with Mark McCourt. (3:45:59)