Every one of us has a preconceived notion about math. We hear such things: Math is tough, Math is confusing, I don’t like numbers, and when we solve with this mindset, we are likely to get negative results. Also, a lot depends on how this subject is taught. Suppose a student solved the sum and got a wrong answer, and the professor, rather than explicitly saying, ‘it is wrong; he can say, ‘maybe another method can get you a correct answer’. This attitude normalizes wrong answers, makes professors approachable, and minimizes the pressure on students to come up with correct solutions only. In addition, a practical setup for learning and solving math can be an engaging and fun experience for students. The following ways will definitely help you:
The worksheet, lectures and solving in books can be monotonous for the students. You can build a practical setup. For example, if you are teaching division, then group the students, give them candies, and ask them to solve division problems using these candies or other favourites of students. You can also play ‘Guess the weight’ by bringing some of the things with different weights and making the student guess it. This will make the whole session interesting, fun, and full of excitement.
Not all students are confident enough to answer in front of the class. To solve this problem, you can divide the class into small groups and make them solve the issues. Either assign them some math-related games to solve the problems or let them choose to solve them by themselves. Also, you can give each group an online math game or quiz game and make them solve it. This will make them more attentive and involved.
Include math in science, arts, history, and other subjects. For example, to draw a room, what are the dimensions, ratios you require, and how you can use the geometry tools in the drawing of the room or any art for that matter. For history, you can make them calculate how many years it takes for an era to get over, etc. This way, they will get a holistic view of math and its applications.
Math is a part of your daily life. Be it managing your expenses, planning a budget, setting the boundaries, etc. Therefore, teaching students the application in personal life will be of great use. For example, you can ask students to calculate how much to save in a month if you wish to collect 8000 in a year. And for word problems, make students literally act on that question and others to solve it. This will be a very engaging and excellent learning process.
As a professor, you need to be approachable, kind, and fun. Solve problems with them, play math games, and normalize wrong answers.
These ways will not only help them solve problems in class but also prepare them for the outside world. For such effective learning, connect with Mathnasium. Their teaching is a combination of fun and valuable learning. The best solution for math problems.
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