EDU431 METHODS OF TEACHING

MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE IN THE

PRIMARY/JUNIOR GRADES

Required reading A: Analysis and Reflection.
Title: New Approach to Teaching Math, Science Spurs Gains

CITATION: New Approach to Teaching Math, Science Spurs Gains. (2016, January 23). Retrieved from
http://www.educationworld.com/a_issues/chat/chat154.shtml

ABSTRACT:
ANALYSIS/REFLECTION:

According to this article, the implementations of
Instructing teachers to use computational math
technology in education that the Computational Math,
and science in their lessons has led to marked
student improvement in two New York districts.
Science, and Technology (CMST) Institute has put forth,
Dr. Osman Yasar, director of the institute that
has demonstrated that it improves student understanding
trains teachers in this approach, explains
of fundamental concepts and increases student interest in
why. Included: Tips for using computational math the learning process. I believe that they are doing a great
and science in the classroom.
job with their efforts and it is evident that their strategies
are working. If the resources are available, teachers

should definitely try to implement these approaches into

their lessons as it offers a new pedagogical approach to

education. In addition, as technology continues to

advance, young students need to learn about new

advancements and have at least some general knowledge

with these operations. Not only will these

implementations improve student understanding of

fundamental concepts and increase student interest in

the learning process, but will also familiarize them with

this form of technology, all benefitting them in the long

run.

Although, one concern that caught my attention

within the article was on the second page: To do this

experiment, students do not need to know anything

about the math and science involved, but as they

experiment with the model they may gain both an

appreciation and a deeper curiosity for the math and

science. While this may be true, could it also be possible

that student may also find themselves disinterested in the

math and science, and instead reliant on the computers

capabilities? It can become a concern if students become

unable to complete similar tasks at hand without the

computer, once they are used to doing it with one. As

noted on the third page, While technology should be

used to make it fun for kids to learn math and science, it is
also important to teach them basic skills. I agree with
this statement and think that students should know these
basic skills prior to exploring them on the computer. That
being said, I do still agree that more hands on and
exploratory approaches are more effective and stimulate
student interest, so the more efforts to create this the
better.