Mathematics with Technology

Using technology can make math more student centered, Judy Chandler, math teacher, and technology integration specialist thinks that technology is essential for teaching mathematics. The National Council for teaching math, states that technology is essential for teaching math, and have included it as ONE of the SIX principles for teaching math.

Judy Chandler also talks about how teachers should see technology as a tool instead of an add on and then technology would become affective. She is afraid this is one the factors pushing teachers away from technology use in math. Students already know how to use technology better than a lot of adults. By using technology we are giving them tools to see examples visually! This is a great thing.

Her next podcast is on thinking mathematically. In most classrooms math is taught by repetition. When thinking mathematically we get students students into the lesson and do not just have them memorize. For example when teaching math, have students volunteer to teach problems on the board. Don't force them, but allow peer help when a student finishes and his/her work is checked to make sure he/she is doing it right. They learn not only subject matter but how to think mathematically.

One way I can do this is by asking questions to guide and to encourage learning in my own classroom. Don't see the glass half empty, instead see it half full!