Mathematics. What a heavy word. I’ve had mixed emotions when it came to my experiences with mathematics, most of them unfortunately being negative. For whatever reason it was, whether it was the tedious repetition of text problems or the never ending worksheets or even the frustration from lack of confidence in the material, there are too many components into what shapes my personal definition of what mathematics is to me. However, one thing is certain. Of the many things Reys defines mathematics as, such as: a way of thinking, an art, a language, or even a study of patterns, I agree with the idea that mathematics is a tool. However, mathematics is not just simply any tool. It is an essential tool. It’s a tool used at all times in daily life. Similarly, it’s a tool that needs building. You cannot go on if the foundation isn’t there. Like many other subjects, mathematics requires you to master the material before the next in the sense that it builds upon itself. The point here is, is that as an instructor seeking to have students effectively utilize mathematics as a tool should aim to do what they can to enrich the learning process as it will affect not only the student at their present level but also their future in mathematics as well as their future instructors and so on.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Chapter 1 - What is Mathematics to You?
Mathematics. What a heavy word. I’ve had mixed emotions when it came to my experiences with mathematics, most of them unfortunately being negative. For whatever reason it was, whether it was the tedious repetition of text problems or the never ending worksheets or even the frustration from lack of confidence in the material, there are too many components into what shapes my personal definition of what mathematics is to me. However, one thing is certain. Of the many things Reys defines mathematics as, such as: a way of thinking, an art, a language, or even a study of patterns, I agree with the idea that mathematics is a tool. However, mathematics is not just simply any tool. It is an essential tool. It’s a tool used at all times in daily life. Similarly, it’s a tool that needs building. You cannot go on if the foundation isn’t there. Like many other subjects, mathematics requires you to master the material before the next in the sense that it builds upon itself. The point here is, is that as an instructor seeking to have students effectively utilize mathematics as a tool should aim to do what they can to enrich the learning process as it will affect not only the student at their present level but also their future in mathematics as well as their future instructors and so on.
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Robin, I see that you are a night owl (by the times that you are posting on your blog). Do you ever get to sleep? First I would like to compliment you on the quality of your blog. Excellent work. You have included many thoughtful comments about the readings and the connections that you share with mathematics. You wrote that "math is not just simply any tool. It is an essential tool" this is an important statement. I am glad that you have critically reflected on the readings and your learning process. This is an exceptional blog. I appreciate the images that you have added to your blog to support your writing.
ReplyDeleteDr. G