You know when I was a teenager I thought my dad was the biggest idiot in the world. He used to say all kinds of cliche simpleisms like: "Moderation is the key". As I have grown into an adult I realize my dad isn't a simpleton. smile
He's simply brilliant.
Such a simple phrase applies beautifully to almost any situation, almost all times.
I will say I think reform math is actually more intuitive to a certain type of person, but it's not a great learning style for all people, at all times. Also, sometimes you have to use memorization. I think a good teacher is flexible and good at assessing differnt learning styles in the kids. That's the kind of teacher I hope for when my kids are in school.
And while I'm the first person to say drill and kill is bad for gifted kids, I also think some of the most important scientific breakthroughs have resulted from long, tedious and repetitive processes.
I'm for balance and moderation.

Neato