TouchMath, a multisensory math programme that makes significant concepts in mathematics accessible and transparent to students who struggle to understand grade-level content, has announced the launch of TouchMath Extend and Dyscalculia Extension. These innovative approaches aim to address mathematical gaps and enhance dyscalculia advocacy.
- Dyscalculia Extension Overview: Dyscalculia Extension offers tailored support through a multisensory program, providing comprehensive resources like 60 math games/tasks and 180 downloadable activity sheets. Aligned with Standards Edition curricula, it ensures adherence to educational standards and includes supporting tools such as graphic organizers and dyscalculia-specific strategies. With diverse activities catering to various learning styles, Dyscalculia Extension is versatile, aligns with DSM-5 standards, and integrates seamlessly into special and general education classrooms. In addition to dyscalculia advocacy, TouchMath acknowledges the various challenges that students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encounter in mathematics and other STEM areas.
- TouchMath Extend Overview: TouchMath Extend is an innovative multisensory extended school year, summer school, and ongoing math intervention solution designed to transform math learning. It offers a tailored 12-week curriculum focusing on skill remediation and teacher support through on-demand video training. The programme combines traditional workbooks with digital math games to enhance comprehension and provides long-term value through the TouchMath digital platform. TouchMath Extend prepares students for future success while embodying TouchMath’s commitment to comprehensive math education.
Speaking about the development, Dr. Sandra Elliott, Chief Academic Officer of TouchMath, said:
Considering TouchMath’s unwavering commitment to educational equity over nearly five decades, the launch of TouchMath Extend and Dyscalculia Extension signifies a pivotal moment in our mission. Recognizing that approximately 75% of students with dyscalculia also experience dyslexia, it’s clear that both conditions warrant equal recognition and support. Through these innovative solutions, we aim to raise awareness and provide concrete assistance, empowering students to overcome mathematical challenges. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ladislav Kosc’s pioneering work, it’s time to dispel misconceptions, deepen understanding, and champion inclusive education where every learner, regardless of their challenges, can thrive.
Dyscalculia, which affects around 3-7% of the population, is a learning disability that has a significant impact on academic achievement and daily life. Problems include difficulties with simple math operations and comprehending mathematical ideas. However, only around 15% of pupils have been examined for dyscalculia, while 40% of math teachers indicate that their students are functioning below grade level. Unlike dyslexia, dyscalculia has no systematic tracking in the United States despite the critical demand for talented STEM personnel. While more than 45 states have implemented dyslexia legislation, less than ten have introduced laws addressing math intervention and instruction since 2021.
Dr Chelsi Brosh, Vice President of Product Innovation of TouchMath, added:
While dyslexia-related legislation has seen significant progress, there’s a notable gap in addressing math intervention and instruction. TouchMath Extend and Dyscalculia Extension fill this void, offering comprehensive solutions to support students struggling with math.
For nearly 50 years, TouchMath has been the preferred learning tool for educators worldwide. The organization offers a diverse curriculum and tools to instructors and students who need help comprehending grade-level information. It is dedicated to enhancing student potential through the global delivery of hands-on math programmes, fostering achievement in people of all abilities. The company’s dedication to dyscalculia advocacy goes beyond its most recent product introductions. It released the free DySc screener and a comprehensive whitepaper last year to spread awareness and understanding of dyscalculia and advocate for initiatives to ensure that all children receive the appropriate support.
