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International Research Indicates That Math Instruction Is More Effective Than Progressive Education
International research indicates that students learn more when mathematics is taught with explicit instruction. This approach has proven to be more effective than progressive education, according to top educational psychologists. This approach involves modeling mathematical discourse and problem-posing, two pedagogical strategies that have been shown to increase student learning. The article also discusses some of the key pedagogical strategies used to increase student learning.
Effectiveness of math instruction
International research indicates that math instruction can help students perform better in school. The study was designed to investigate the effects of differentiated instruction on math attitudes and student achievement. The study sample included 61 students with learning disabilities. The students were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group had 28 boys and the control group had 20 boys and two girls.
Increased math teaching time is associated with increased achievement in that subject, but it does not appear to affect scores in other subjects. For example, a modest increase in mathematics teaching time was associated with modest increases in science scores. However, these effects were not consistent. Adding more time to math instruction could help close the achievement gap for students of all races and socioeconomic statuses.
Pedagogical strategies to increase student learning
The use of informal strategies in math instruction promotes student engagement and exploration of concepts. This approach allows students to compare and contrast different models and learn when to use more sophisticated ones. It also allows students to recognize that some approaches are more efficient than others. This kind of approach is supported by the latest research.
The use of active teaching strategies to motivate students is a crucial part of math education. By incorporating active teaching methods, teachers can motivate students by tapping into their cultural experiences. This type of teaching also fosters student engagement and encourages creative thinking.
Teacher modeling of mathematical discourse
Teacher modeling of mathematical discourse offers opportunities for mathematics teachers to integrate mathematical language into everyday conversations with students. Such practices help students achieve mathematical understanding, and help students build a vocabulary of mathematics terms. The research indicates that mathematical discourse has a positive impact on student learning. However, teachers must use appropriate interactive discourse practices in order to be effective.
The benefits of teacher modeling of mathematical discourse include increased student confidence, motivation, and persistence. It also supports students’ beliefs about their own intelligence. Students who can use mathematical language are better able to understand and apply mathematical concepts. As such, teacher modeling of mathematics discourse can significantly improve student learning and engagement.
Problem-posing
The process of problem-posing involves both cognitive and affective processes. It is possible to enhance problem-posing skills through teacher training and educational intervention. The cognitive processes involved in problem-posing differ depending on the type of task. Teachers may be able to promote problem-posing processes to students by providing a variety of problem-posing activities.
Problem posing in mathematics instruction may improve learning because it fosters mathematical creativity in students. The study by Li et al. found that students’ mathematical creativity improved after the intervention. They concluded that problem posing activities helped students develop problem-solving skills, as measured by a measure of self-efficacy and mathematical creativity.
Independent student practice
Students who practice independently make greater gains in math. In addition to practicing their conceptual knowledge, students need time to practice applied math skills. This practice also helps students to develop fluency. The optimal amount of time for students to practice math skills increases as they improve. To increase math student practice, educators can use different instructional strategies.
For instance, a Division A lesson might focus on writing, sharing, and grouping word problems. While independent student practice helps students reinforce previously learned concepts, the best method is to tie the practice directly to the learning objectives. This type of independent practice is particularly important for low-achieving students.
Coherence curriculum
A recent report from the World Bank shows that coherent math instruction leads to higher test scores and improved academic achievement. The findings are based on a study of students from various countries. It found that the best math instruction consists of integrated pedagogy, a consistent set of learning objectives, and strong assessment practices.
The research compared 50 STEM curriculum units. The degree of integration varied, as did the quality of integration. Eight curricular units were not included in the analysis because they resulted in disconnected lessons. The remaining 42 STEM units formed four broad categories.
Tools and technology
A wide variety of research suggests that using tools and technology can improve math instruction. Some of these tools are interactive, allowing teachers to differentiate instruction based on student needs. Other tools, like video game simulations, provide additional visual opportunities for students to explore math concepts. This makes math more relevant to students and may enhance their motivation to learn.
Interactive games and tools for teachers can help students develop their mathematical thinking and learn to apply it to real-world problems. The Do The Math program, for instance, provides a tablet-friendly digital experience that includes virtual tools, games, and professional learning resources. In addition, the student-centered program HMH Student Central offers digital access to student-selected games, hands-on materials, and assessments.
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