Teaching Mathematics in Review

Today I am going to discuss my journey through this course and the valuable skills I have learned in terms of teaching mathematics. I would like to start off by saying how much I appreciate the guidance and help of Professor Bunz. She has been instrumental in helping our class discover how fun teaching math can be, something that every student of mine will appreciate in the future.

I have learned to make math meaningful to my students. To make it relatable, engaging and fun whenever possible. I understand that not every math class is going to be super fun, however, I think that there needs to be a balance between textbook work and engaging activities/games. I have learned to teach my students to recognize that math is an essential and integral part of our everyday lives. Demonstrating this will serve to enhance their conceptual understanding of mathematics in all strands.

I have also realized that it is important to understand where my students might be confused with mathematical concepts. It is imperative that as teachers we understand how to recognize their confusion or misunderstandings to then successfully get them back on the right track. I always grew up feeling that I wasn't "good" at math, however, I now believe that any student can succeed when they are provided with the proper tools, skills, and opportunities.

Each activity that was assigned in this course served to further my knowledge and skills as an instructor. From learning to connect activities to curriculum expectations to identifying fun and engaging online mathematical games for students, I have come to realize the multidimensional approach as a teacher I must take in order to successfully teach my students. I walk away from this course feeling confident that I will be a teacher that will make math meaningful for my students.

Cheers!

Ashley

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