
Why Traditional Math Education Fails & How to Fix It with Dr. Craig Hane aka Dr. Del - Episode 85
Show Notes:
Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron interviews Dr. Craig Hane aka Dr.Del, a math educator passionate about making math accessible and practical. Dr.Del shares his insights on why traditional math education often fails students, the importance of teaching only the math people actually need, and how technology—like scientific calculators and AI tools—can revolutionize learning. He also discusses his experiences in NASCAR, business, and technical training, demonstrating how math is essential in unexpected ways. Listeners gain valuable insights into how math can empower careers and life choices.
Key Takeaways:
Practical Math Matters – Most people never use advanced math like the quadratic formula, so schools should focus on real-world applications.
Tech Changes Everything – Tools like scientific calculators and AI-driven software can simplify learning and reduce barriers.
Inclusion as Choice – Dr.Del defines inclusion as the ability to choose and participate in the "tribes" that shape our lives.
Math Empowers Careers – Understanding math opens doors to technical careers, business success, and even sports engineering.
Education Needs Reform – Schools resist change due to outdated systems and financial incentives, keeping math harder than necessary.
About the Guest(s):
Dr. Craig Hane (AKA: Dr. Del):
Dr. Craig Hane, affectionately known as Dr. Del, is on a mission to revolutionize math education and empower individuals with practical tools to unlock their potential. With a Ph.D. in Algebraic Number Theory, decades of teaching experience, and a passion for breaking barriers, Dr. Del offers a compelling mix of expertise, innovation, and storytelling that resonates with listeners of all backgrounds.
Born in the aftermath of WWII, Dr. Del’s early life was shaped by resilience and resourcefulness. From humble beginnings in rural Indiana, where he learned arithmetic under the guidance of his uncle, to overcoming significant academic challenges, his journey underscores the transformative power of belief, perseverance, and mentorship. Dr. Del’s inspiring story is one of turning setbacks into stepping stones, making it relatable and uplifting for any audience.
What sets Dr. Del apart is his groundbreaking approach to math education. He combines traditional concepts with modern tools like scientific calculators and Wolfram Alpha to demystify math and make it accessible to everyone. His philosophy is simple: math should empower, not intimidate. Dr. Del’s strategies enable students and professionals alike to conquer math barriers in STEM fields and beyond, proving that even complex subjects like calculus and differential equations can be made easy.
Dr. Del's expertise extends beyond the classroom. As a successful entrepreneur, he has applied his math skills to real-world business ventures, training thousands of skilled tradespeople and demonstrating the practical value of math in everyday life. His insights into using math as a tool for problem-solving and innovation make him a valuable guest for audiences seeking personal growth, career development, or educational empowerment.
Dr. Del's definition of inclusion:
Inclusion is being a member or visitor in a tribe.
Connect with Dr. Del:
Website: https://craighane.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriadMath
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triadmathinc/
Explore the Triad Math Tribe: https://triadmathinc.com/tmt/
SPAM© Count:
Host:
Yes
Current Guest:
Yes
Cumulative Guest Stats:
Yes - 36
No - 47
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