Being a "math person" myself, I found this article to be very educational for any future and/or current teachers. I understand that in general most people, have a strong dislike for math, some who may even fear teaching it. After reading this article, it brought a real sense of how math can be full of opportunities in real-world scenarios, making it attainable for students at all levels of understanding. In this article Enderson writes about a question given to her class, and how they incorporated technology by using a software system called Algebra Xpresser.
"Problem: Given a rectangular sheets of grid paper that are 25" x 40" (made up of 1"x1" squares), make boxes by cutting squares from the corners and folding up the remaining sides. Which boxes provide the maximum Volume? Which boxes provide the minimum volume?" (Enderson pg. 29)
The students were given an opportunity to guess first before the made empirical measurements. After constructing, collecting, and sharing their data students used the software to translate their findings into a symbolic form exploring their concepts. Along the way, the use of technology, Algebra Xpresser, served as a tool in aiding the students by furthering the understanding of the concepts used in this problem. Using the graphing function students were eventually able to visualize the data by plugging in the equation they came up with (V= x(25-2x)(40-2x)). After having the graph as a visual representation of the data they collected, they students began to come up with further questions of their own in response to their findings, which became a critical element in their technology-based problem solving.
All in all, this activity seems to get the students involved in a more experimental way, which may better suit the learning styles of certain students. By going beyond the standard curricular boundaries of math and encouraging students to deeper investigate problem with technology there can be a better conceptual understanding of mathematical ideas. The appropriate software and technology can "facilitate students problem solving processes" (Enderson pg. 32) and may eliminate obstacles. I would suggest that if anyone were planning on using technology similar to this "play" with it prior to using it in a class setting, otherwise it may create more obstacles. I really like the use of technology with math, now-a-days technology is second nature to children and if it can enhance a students comprehension, it's well worth it. Math is just one of those subject you either hate it or love it, and by using technology it can get students involved, sometimes without them even knowing it. The article mentions that this same problem can be given to students varying from elementary to middle school and even high school; volume is a concept that starts early and by using manipulatives and graphs with technology it gives a new dimension to a traditional paper-and-pencil activity.
what a great way to get kids to see what they are actually doing when they are doing math. as a tutor you would always get they questiong of how does that work or what does that math question work? and you are left with is, it is what it is. now you can get them to understand why the math problem works. this is something to look into more.
ReplyDeleteThis was a very interesting article!I think this could be very beneficial for both the math and non math teachers. I feel that something hands on or visual will capture the students attention. Like you mentioned in your post,I agree that technology is becoming second nature for student's and it actually gives an opportunity for those who are not familiar a way to experiment and work with technology one on one. Just like the old candy method for counting and dividing, I think this method of using technology is something that we should all consider using in our classroom as future teachers in the millenium!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a very interesting article! I like how it involved doing math in a non traditional way. It seemed like the students were able to visualize math in different ways which is great for students who learn differently. I think it's a good idea to approach math in new ways in order to reach every student.
ReplyDelete