Effective Teaching and Learning Practices for Students with Learning Difficulties in New South Wales

The focus of this project was the identification of teaching strategies that have been shown to be effective for students who have difficulties in learning mathematics.  Schools from three education sectors, in both country and metropolitan areas, were identified for inclusion in the project.  On the basis of an extensive literature review, the use of ‘explicit instruction’ and ‘strategy instruction’ were identified as effective strategies in teaching students with difficulties in mathematics in mainstream classrooms.  Evaluation of school participation and data-gathering were also important in improving outcomes.  A CD Rom has been designed to improve the capacity of teachers to assist students who have difficulties in learning mathematics.  The CD Rom can be accessed by contacting Disability Programs at the NSW Department of Education and Training.