“Math Person”
Alma Flores Mendoza
One of the common misconception when it comes to the subject Mathematics is that it needs raw intellectual talent or brilliance. People believe that only students who possess this sort of brilliance are only the ones who succeed in Math-related subjects. This wrong belief affects the dreams and the future of students when they deal with Math-related subjects. Because of this, students restrict themselves in achieving success.
“Mathematics is difficult.”
“I always fail my exams in mathematics.”
“It only seems that I am not a Math-person.”
We always hear these words in school, at work and in most places. Most people, from different generation, were hooked into the “Math-person” belief. In contrast with this belief, some researchers and doctors have found out that being good in Mathematics or general intelligence is not the sole problem. The conventional or customary of pattern in Mathematics’ instruction, method, or strategy does not work for everyone. As we always say, there are individual differences we should consider. Also, students differ in intellectual abilities not only in mathematics but in other subjects as well.
We, teachers, can eradicate the notion or belief of “Math-person” if we set a correct mindset inside the classroom with the subject. If teachers make some innovation in teaching by making the process of learning more appealing to students, then the students will understand more for they will be more engaged with it. Also, if teachers relate the subject with real life situation, they can appreciate the lesson well. Trying different kinds of teaching techniques; integrating the lesson to ICT, engaging students with collaborative learning and different teaching methods, strategies and techniques are the things we need to consider so that we can make students learn and love Math.
Is being good in Mathematics genetic? To some degree, yes. But in Junior High School Mathematics, innate ability is not that important. Mathematics is an art of repetition and discipline, so students must possess self-confidence, must have consistent practice, and they must work hard to be well-versed with it.
There are no things in this world that we cannot overcome and achieve if we just put our heart on it. Love it, live with it and everything then will follow.