BELONGINGNESS AND PASSION GO HAND-IN-HAND
RUBY A. MIRANDA
Learning math is tough, and that’s for sure. Classrooms which thrive in the world of math have a sense of “belongingness” where students feel that their peers are concerned about one another. When they feel they belong to the classroom, students persevere more to learn math, amidst the difficulties they experience.
Belongingness happens when there is a connection among students and with their teacher as well. Having this kind of relationship will help students develop the confidence and motivation they need in learning math.
Also, students need to feel safe inside the classroom, where mistakes are welcome and not condoned. When they are confident enough, they can ask questions without being embarrassed, and they are willing to try new things.
They can show passion in solving a problem or an equation, and even push their limits – because they know that they belong inside the classroom and whatever errors they make are welcome.
Mistakes and struggles are but a normal part of the learning process, especially when it comes to learning math. All these are necessary components for building a student’s confidence and competence in math. There are risks, but they are worth it.
Also, don’t leave fun behind when learning math. Fun is not necessarily a bad thing, you know. It’s not a distraction at all, but a part of learning math – less the anxiety.
It has been proven through research that when students enjoy themselves, meaning when there is lower anxiety levels, then they are able to reach a deeper mathematical thinking.
Play and fun involves using manipulatives, or tinkering with numbers and shapes. This can also mean investigating an engaging task, or playing math games. Whatever form of fun and play is used inside a classroom, all these lead to discovery – which is important in learning math. Learning should not be boring, but should be exciting and stress-free.
Also, as with any other classroom, the teachers should show passion, which they say is rather contagious. When students see and feel that the teacher loves what she is teaching, then they would be excited to learn. And this is especially important when it comes to math.
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The author is Head Teacher III at Camba High School