To be sure, a problem-based or open-ended approach to teaching math is often pitted against more traditional, procedural methods—think of the math worksheets full of equations without context.

The divide makes it less likely that students who struggle will get access to proven strategies, researchers argue in a new study.

Math has been one of the most challenging of subjects both to learn and to teach. A startup out of Barcelona believes it can fix that.

When it comes to reforming teaching methods, many believe it means dividing classes into small groups for discussion or using numerous teaching aids like slides and tools. "This formalistic approach .