Reflection #1
Technology in the Classroom
“Technology is essential in teaching and learning mathematics; it influences the mathematics that is taught and enhances students’ learning.” (NCTM, 2000) This statement from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics is one that I agree with. Technology can be used in various ways in the mathematics classroom. Technology can allow students to visually see the concepts that they have learned in the classroom.
Technology can be used to explain concepts such as probability, geometry, and algebra. In the Jean McGehee and Linda K. Griffith article, one teacher used the graphing calculator to demonstrate the relationship between motion and graphical representation of the motion that was executed. The teacher asked questions in reference to the graphs. This allowed for the students to make their own conclusions to why the graphs looked the way it did.
Technology helps to explain concepts in geometry with programs such as Geometer’s Sketchpad. Geometer’s Sketchpad makes it easier to explain more difficult geometrical concepts such as the relationship between a triangles median. It is a time saver for teachers to incorporate Geometer’s Sketchpad. Otherwise, it would take students a great deal longer to draw the necessary number of triangles to explain the concept.
In my experience, technology helps students to see real life applications of mathematical concepts. One of the questions students usually asks is “Why do I need this?” Technology can help to show students exactly how mathematics is used in everyday situations. Technology can also help to show the connection between other mathematical concepts that were previously learned. The graphing calculator can show students the intersection point of two lines. This would connect to the prior lessons of learning substitution and elimination when solving for multiple equations.
In conclusion, students could benefit from technology in the classroom. Technology has several applications for students to learn from. Technology can be a great tool for students to learn from if the preparations are taken for teachers to learn the technology.
Reference:
McGehee, J., Griffith, L. (2004). Technology enhances students
learning across the curriculum. Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School, 9(6),
344-349.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. (2000) Principles
and standards for school mathematics. Reston, VA: NCTM.