Math + Technology= Interesting!

It is crucial to use mathematics-based technology as part of mathematics instruction for many different reasons. Technology can help enhance students understanding of mathematics. The power of technology enables students to solve problems quickly and effectively. Students can examine examples that are not feasible by hand to broaden their understanding of a topic.

Technology helps effective mathematics teaching. The use of graphing, visualizing, and computing can all be done using technology. This aids in accuracy of the material being taught. If a student is learning how to graph a function, a calculator can be very helpful to get the exact picture.Technology can help improve students’ visualization and therefore help with a better understanding of the material being taught.

All technology is hands on and I believe that is how many students learn best because they are able to interact. Technology like calculators and computers are of interest to students, they are therefore more likely to pay attention to the material being taught. Kids love playing with technology and if they are told they can use a calculator or a computer, many would be more interested. Therefore, technology can make mathematics more engaging and fun for the students. An example of this is geometers sketchpad. It allows students to visualize and work with shapes. It is a fun application that many students enjoy using.

Some students find Math is a difficult or boring subject but as a teacher we can ask ourself two questions, “Will it allow students to do something they could not have done before?” and “Will it allow students to do something they could have done before but in a better way?”. These two questions are very important because I believe technology can aid in both of those questions. The use of technology can promote a higher level of thinking. There is only so much you can do with just a pencil and paper. Technology can help aid in that higher level of mathematics.

Another important reason to incorporate technology into the classroom is that specific technology can engage students with physical challenges in mathematics. Children with special needs should be able to learn the same material as the rest of the class, and technology can help make this happen. Technology can be useful to a variety of ages. Young children can solve problems using large numbers. Elementary students can arrange and analyze large data sets. Middle school students can study linear relationships and high school students can use simulations. These are just a few of the many things technology can do to help students succeed.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why technology should be used in mathematic classrooms. It enhances students understanding of mathematics, promotes a higher level of thinking, helps improve students’ visualization, and it’s just all around more engaging and enjoyable than the normal paper and pencil.