Importance of class participation in discussions
It gives an idea to the instructor about the understanding level of each student by having class discussions but what class discussions can you have for Mathematics class
Hi Rose,
Plus, using this method the students get to develop their skills at problem solving. Most of what we do in life involves problem solving so the more experience they get at working through possible solutions the better they will be at it in their career field.
Gary
I like to include topics for discussion where thee is "no one right" answer. This lets each student voice an opinion without feeling judged. I like to tell students that the answer is always "it depends" and I look for their line of reasoning. It is less stressful for students and after all, it is the student's ability to verbalize their criteria for decision making and offer data and information to support it that adds to the learning process.
I teach in a culinary school. I am always looking for math problems when I visit kitchens and labs, when I go out to eat, when I read the newspaper about new and different recipes. I ask other instructors about problems they are having with their students in lab situations. It is amazing how many examples you can come up with when you look around and ask questions about what students can and can’t do with your subject.
