To me, mathematics would be a study using symbols such as numbers to explain what occurs in such things as science and business. It is a way in which we can understand logically the world around us.
Because mathematics is a way to explain our world, I learn math best when I am able to understand where it applies logically in life. Math sinks in better when I am able to wrap my own mind around a concept to the point where I can explain it to others. It is at times detrimental when I am spoonfed a concept.
I think my future students will learn math best as they themselves make discoveries and put forth the effort to wrap their minds are each concept, and as I continually assist them in their endeavors. Then as they practice repeatedly each concept, they will adequately learn each given subject. I believe this will work because this method helps the students use their own mind to discover topics, and with practice, they will be able to remember the given section.
A few practices in school mathematics that really promote students' learning include basic traditions such as giving adequate homework to help the student practice what they have learned, giving reading assignments in which a student can make his or her own discoveries, and the practice of assessing a students learning through tests.
One practice that I believe is detrimental to students' learning in schools today is giving a test over a material and then thinking that the test signifies the end of the learning of the material on the test. Tests should be used to assist teachers in helping students learn each given concept. Another way teachers today are causing students to not learn math is through too much talk, and not enough participation. It is hard for a student to learn a concept if he or she is taking notes too quickly in a class, and is not given the opportunity to try out the concepts themselves in a structured and guided manner.
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I liked your post. To start with, I agree with you that it help students, and even ourselves, to learn when we have a sense of how it applies in real life. No one wants to do something that has no meaning. I also agree that more people need to really understand concepts. Too many times teachers don't try hard enough to explain things to their students so that the students understand. I liked what you said about the basic traditions in schools. Mainly giving out homework, etc. I do agree with what you said is detrimental to a student, but can you think of anything else? The teachers are required to cover so much material, it is hard not to be continually talking sometimes. That's just a thought to think about. Good job though:)
ReplyDeleteI really liked the last part of your blog when you talk about how it is detrimental to have teachers talk too much without enough participation. I had a math teacher once who seemed to have nailed a balance between these two areas, while still being able to get through the material. It really helped me learn better.
ReplyDeleteWhen you talk about how your students will learn best, I like your method of discovery for the students. However, I wonder if this method would work best for all students, even the ones who aren't as zealous as others, as they may not feel like putting forth the effort to discover the topics for their own.
It is a lot easier to learn a subject when you see how it applies to your life. Otherwise, it's just pointless knowledge and work, and who wants to learn that?
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