We struggle to teach mathematics in a way that is accessible and
meaningful. We want students to be "critical thinkers" and "problem
solvers". Many think that teaching mathematical concepts within a realistic
context helps achieve these goals.
I'm living with the tension between teaching with these "reform" emphases
and traditional teaching. I've tried to deemphasize what I can in good
conscience, knowing what is expected of these students in subsequent math
and science courses. I have attended workshops and conferences, written
materials, learned how to incorporate technology in a reasonable fashion.
And, I am absolutely frustrated because there is not enough class time.
Intermediate algebra is a case in point. It is a 3 credit course crammed to
bursting with concepts and skills. I see my students for 75 minutes twice a
week during the semester. They often have entered with "C" level work from
elementary algebra so really do not have a firm handle on those concepts
yet.
I do not have time to get my students out in the hall to measure pipes or
do any sort of lab. People that say that this type of activity enables
students to reliably do algebraic procedures in a variety of settings have
discovered something that I can't seem to find. I do use short activities
that are "discovery based" to introduce concepts. The operative word is
short.
I am forced to structure my class based on the expectation that students
who pass my class can reliably do and understand algebraic manipulations
used in development of future mathematics (eg calculus) and in problem
solving in other courses. Sure, most of my students will not take calculus
but some will. Many are not science majors but most will end up taking
statistics. Algebraic skills are prerequisite for these courses. If time
is limited, then I have to prioritize my objectives. Guess what ends up
getting cut?
--Laura
____________________________________________________________________
Laura Bracken bracken@lcsc.edu
Division of Natural Science and Mathematics Office: 208-799-2484
Lewis-Clark State College Fax: 208-799-2064
500 8th Avenue
Lewiston, ID 83501
_____________________________________________________________________
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