 | Common Myths about Learning Mathematics |
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At the NCTM 2011 Convention Dr. Rita Barger gave a presentation on “Common Myths about Learning Mathematics”. She has kindly given me permission to share it. The attached PowerPoint includes causes and solutions for the five common myths that Dr. Barger has identified: 1. The “five minute” belief 2. The “you have to be taught how” belief 3. The “math is mostly memorizing” belief 4. The “math is only computation” belief 5. The “some people just naturally can’t do mathematics” belief The “Five Minute” Belief The myth is that if you can’t solve a math problem within five minutes, you might as well give up. In fact, many fun and interesting math problems take much longer than five minutes to solve. A rich problem could take an entire math block to solve! This myth is harmful because we want our students to develop perseverance. We want them to take a problem home and “sleep on it” if necessary. The “You Have to be Taught How” Belief The myth is that there are always specific steps to use for a particular problem. In fact, problems can usually be solved many different ways. This myth is harmful because we want to encourage flexible thinking in students and rigid adherence to procedures and algorithms can stifle creative approaches to mathematics. Students must be shown efficient approaches but only after they have had a chance to “play the game” by their own rules. The “Math is Mostly Memorizing” Belief The myth is that math is all about memorizing formulas and strategies. In fact, we want students to be flexible thinkers and excessive memorization is boring and can lead to frustration when s learner is confronted with a new problem. Some memorization is useful in mathematics but it should be supported with background knowledge. For example, Dr. Barger advises that the basic area formulas be developed to help students ultimately committing them to memory. The “Math is Only Computation” Belief The myth is that math is all about numbers and simple calculations. In fact, mathematics is about problem solving. Some of the most interesting math problems don’t come with numbers that can be immediately crunched. Solving these problems is how students develop mathematical skill. The “Some People Just Naturally Can’t do Mathematics” Belief In JUMP Math, John Mighton refers to this as the “myth of ability”. In fact, every child is capable of learning mathematics. This myth can lead parents and teachers to accept less than a child’s full potential. As educators we must challenge this myth and show children that they are fully capable of learning and doing math. Your Turn What is your experience with these myths? Are there other beliefs about math teaching that could be myths? Please share your ideas and any questions you have about these myths. |
