Although most scholars say learning math algorithms like regrouping in addition are essential, some worry that schools don't do enough to support the concepts undergirding these common procedures.

At issue was an algorithm called Q* (pronounced “Q-star”), which has allegedly been shown to solve certain grade-school-level math problems that it hasn’t seen before.

At the time of writing, the details of the Q* algorithm and its capabilities are limited, but highly intriguing. So there are various subtleties to consider before deeming Q* a success. For ...

Education Week spoke with three award-winning teachers about how they help students persevere in the math classroom.