Math is not the best loved subject in schools. Studies made by Herbert P. Ginsburg of Columbia University, showed that the parents and teachers’ attitudes has a big impact and influence with the “child’s expectations in the (sic) area of learning.”
But how do we encourage children to practice their mathematical skill if teachers rely heavily on textbooks? Teachers, according to Thornton & Wilson, are the key figures in changing how mathematics is learned and understood (1993, p.273)
First, teachers need to understand what motivates and how they view math affects the way they teach it. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) suggests teachers to find ways or methods that help lessen anxiety or make mathematics an interesting subject. Suggestion includes the following:
1. Accommodating for different learning styles
2. Creating a variety of testing environments
3. Designing positive experiences in math classes
4. Refraining from tying self-esteem to success with math
5. Emphasizing that everyone makes mistakes in mathematics
6. Making math relevant
7. Allow students to have some input into their own evaluations
8. Allowing for different social approaches to learning mathematics
9. Emphasizing the importance of original, quality thinking rather than rote manipulation of formulas.
Every child is unique and each has its own way of learning. What are the different learning types? Some kids learn things visually (Visual learners), others are auditory learners, kinesthetic learner – likes to move around & touch objects (Dunn and Dunn model). Teachers may find this challenging but it allows teachers to become creative in their teaching methods.
It is also important to understand that using teaching methods that provides a positive experience in Math classes makes kids enjoy learning it. Teachers should refrain from equating one’s self-esteem to getting the right answer in Math. The idea is to allow students to discover the solution by themselves and have an environment that does not criticize kids when they commit errors or mistakes.
Arthur J. Baroody states that a key aspect to building positive view towards mathematics is to foster constructive and reasonable beliefs in learning math. Resources like the ones written by Mitsumas Anno (Anno’s Math Games 1987) provides alternative ways in making mathematics a fun way for children to look at situations in various perspectives.
Going back to first part of this article, teacher’ motivation and attitude or belief directly affects students’ interest in learning. Even the best creative teaching methods and creative teaching environment has less effect if teachers’ attitude and belief does not motivate students to value mathematics. How teachers’ respond to students’ who commit errors will either increase or impede the interest for learning math.
Monique Boekaert, wrote Motivation to Learn said that, “It is often stated that bad teaching kills motivation and that good teaching brings out the best in students of all ages.” The best way to encourage children to learn math is to keep them motivated to learn. Keeping kids motivated to learn mathematics entails not only the best and creative teaching method. Teachers must keep themselves motivated to teach and encourage the children to learn.
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