Technology Supported Mathematics Learning Environment, Book Review Example

Technology plays an important role in many aspects of life and business. The importance of teaching mathematics to students with a technology supported learning environment is becoming recognized as an effective and vital means of educating students.  The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) is working to promote the concept and educate teachers to improve the use of technology for teaching mathematics. There are many applications which can assist teachers in fostering and influencing the study of mathematics. Research has demonstrated the efficacy of learning through the use of technology for students of all ages and backgrounds.

Technology-Supported Mathematics Learning Environment: Sixty-Seventh Yearbook is a NCTM book which concentrates on the importance of technology in teaching and learning of mathematical applications for all grade levels. This manual also focuses on the results of research on technology and the impact on learning. It provides documentation from actual classrooms on the methods teachers use to teach and mentor students on the use of technology and software applications. The book details the ways a student can use spreadsheets and specific software for geometry and algebraic equations to fully understand and comprehend the problems; not just finding the final answer but rather grasping the concepts. The teacher’s attitudes towards technology are also a factor which impacts the effects of learning on students.

The book concludes with thought provoking concepts on what the future holds for mathematics and technology in the classroom. The concept of a web based instructional teaching methods have a fundamental basis for not only the ease of use, but also a means to reach more people. Universities have already begun the use of web based instruction with on-line degree programs. This concept is one that kindergarten through high school may be adopted in the future.

Technology is more than just the use of one piece of equipment but rather covers all modalities available to include computers, calculators and specific software applications. Research is one avenue to demonstrate the importance of technology and learning. Although computers and calculators have a reputation for performing the work which students should be required to manually work, students can learn the appropriate times to use them for mathematical answers. Teaching students how to make proper use of technology through a curriculum integrated with theories and research proven methods will empower students to make careful decisions for proper technology practice.

Research is an important part of understanding how technology is useful as well as demonstrate possible new theories and ideas. Cheng-Yao Lin of the Southern Illinois University conducted a research study to determine the efficacy of web based workshops geared towards fostering teachers’ confidence and competence in technology and the use of computers and the Internet in the mathematics classroom (p. 135). The author used the NCTM organization’s recommendations on mathematics and technology as supporting evidence in his research. The study concluded that computers and web based resources are important. The results showed how age appropriate software also was useful in engaging students in learning mathematics and the concepts associated with math.

Research on mathematical thinking and understanding has demonstrated vital information on how learners construct knowledge (NCTM: Rivera, 2005). In Lin’s study he used interviews in the research to gain a better understanding of how vital research is on practical day-to-day classroom interactions and student engagement. Research informs and reality supports the information gleamed from the research. The methods and tools used for understanding how mathematics learning and teaching impacts students and teachers is important on research and interpretation of the results.

Technology in the real world classroom takes more than just understanding research results. Teachers are faced with the implementation of technology use and getting the support of the school and the commitment of the students. The size of the classroom, the number of computers and the availability and cost of certain software packages can present problems for teachers and interfere with their motivation and commitment to a technology supported environment.

Internet WebQuest is one form of a software application which the NCTM describes as a tool for problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections and representation. Linda Starr reports in an article for Education World (2009) that teachers should first learn how to properly use technology to be able to support students and extend learning opportunities. For this to be realized, the school must support and properly train the teachers. Time can be a deterrent for teachers who are already taxed with multiple duties. However, principals can help by supporting the technology classroom learning environment by providing time for teachers to use technology in their curriculums.

The future is important to technology supported classrooms. The availability and enhancement capabilities of technology for mathematics learning continue to advance and become more important as time develops. Technological tools and computer systems continue to be developed and improved to enhance the teaching and learning concepts through technology. Communication and web based instruction are two of the most prevalent concepts associated with technology supported classroom learning.

The University of Maryland realizes the importance of the classroom of the future through technology. The university embarked on a five year project to understand the role development use of new educational technology has on the future of learning. Technology in general is becoming a vital part of children’s lives (University of Maryland, 2006). Computers are used for learning and play as well as communication. Developing this into educational projects for the classroom is logical and believed to be advantageous in the benefit children receive.

A technology based classroom places an emphasis on students to explore and learn independently. Knowledge is not limited by a textbook but rather through the use of the Internet and computers places real-time knowledge into the hands of students. This teaches children at young ages to explore and learn creative problem-solving skills as a foundation for collaborative learning and expression of ideas. Understanding the importance of technology now and in the future impacts and shapes potential learning environments emphasized by technology. Technology and education combined creates an exceptional medium for opportunities and possibilities for better teaching and learning dynamics.

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics is presenting important documentation for the support of technology supported mathematics learning environments. Understanding the importance of research and the insights gained helps support the practical application of technology in the classroom. Opening the possibilities for the future through technology in the mathematics learning environment promotes a rich and rewarding venue for students of all ages.

References

Lin, Cheng-Yao. Beliefs about using technology in mathematics classroom: Interviews with pre-service elementary teachers.  Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science & Technology Education. 2008, 4(2), 135-142.  Retrieved February 21, 2010 from http://www.ejmste.com/v4n2/Eurasia_v4n2_Lin.pdf

NCTM: Rivera, F.D. An anthropological account of the emergency of mathematical proof and related processes in technology based environments. Technology-Supported Mathematics Learning Environments. 2005. Library of Congress: United States.

Starr, Linda. The administrator’s role in technology integration. Education World. (2009). Retrieved February 21, 2010 from http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech087.shtml

University of Maryland. Classroom of the future. (2006). Retrieved February 21, 2010 from http://www.cs.umd.edu/hcil/kiddesign/cof.shtml