Mathematics requires effort. One need to
generate strategies, apply the approaches, see if it leads to solutions and
check it the answers make sense. Somehow, I feel that trial and error method
can be applicable too in mathematics.
Jean Piaget believed that learners construct
their own learning. And to construct or build something, one requires tools,
materials and effort. Here are some
concrete mateirals that children can work with when exploring
mathematical concepts. Alternatively, teacher can also come up with tteir
own teacher made materials.
Listening, copying, memorizing, drilling and
compute are lower thinking activities that do not adequately prepare students
for real act of doing mathematics. The environment setup plays a very important
role. It should be inviting and ample opportunities are provided which allows
children to be actively engaged and explore with materials. Teachers also play
a role as facilitator to scaffold children’s learning.
Above all, there are benefits of developing mathematical proficiency in children. Some benefits to mathematical proficiency are enhancing problem solving abilities, improved attitudes and beliefs, increased in memory to retrieve information and connect concept to entire web of ideas.
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