CHANGING THE NEGATIVE IMAGE OF MATHEMATICS

FERDINAND R. CUNANAN

The question as to hoZ the public imaJe of mathematics can be chanJed has sparNed various reactions, both from educators and the learners, over the years.

)or some students, the subMect is either scary or borinJ, or somethinJ that cannot be applied to their lives in the future.

)or teachers, they have a hard time shoZinJ to students that mathematical concepts can be used in everyday life. %ut as educators, they have the poZer to chanJe this mindset.

,n the classroom, they can shoZ hoZ math can be related to real life situations ² from the Zay they budJet their money, pay for purchases, play James, cooN or baNe. /earners have to be able to see hoZ relevant and practicaN math can be.

Teachers can also use technoloJy in maNinJ the classroom interactive and enJaJinJ. They can use videos, puzzles, James and the liNe ti maNe the subMect more enMoyable. This can also help students develop a positive attitude toZards math.

%ecause students see math as ³intimidatinJ´, let them NnoZ that their math sNills can be developed throuJh hard ZorN, Jood strateJies, and help from others. This Zay, students can be more confident in learninJ the subMect.

8sinJ positive reinforcement also helps. :henever struJJlinJ students achieve somethinJ, celebrate their efforts and proJress. This Zill help build confidence and a positive attitude toZards the subMect.

,ncorporatinJ these strateJies into teachinJ ban chanJe the perspection aJainst math, maNinJ subMect.

it an enMoyable

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