Entrance Slip: Battleground Schools

    The chart on dichotomies with respect to the different stances in mathematics education is the first wow moment I had while reading. As a prospective teacher, it is great to know and have multiple teaching tools in order to teach a wide range of students. This chart illustrates the conservative and progressive interest in mathematics and its various modes of instruction. Under the 'nature of student work' category, I couldn't stop but notice the current teaching styles categorized in this heading. The more authoritative and structural nature of math is labelled under the conservative heading, where a more exploratory approach is seen from a progressive lens. As a future educator, I would take an approach of a progressive educator. Through the progressive lens, students are able to approach math education using an exploratory lens. Evolving on pre-existing knowledge and strengthening this knowledge through a magnitude of skills.

    Secondly, I am aware an assumption is just an individual point of view, but I beg to differ when it comes to the cultural assumptions made on people who love the subject. The article mentions how mathematics is normally liked by eggheads, generally males, nerds, absentminded professors, and mad scientists who are unable to cope with the world of human interaction. It is said that most individuals who have an interest in mathematics are introverted and very close-minded, where sharing ideas among others is a difficult task for them to do. As a future educator, changing the perspective of others on old-fashioned norms in society is one of my objectives. I generally do not fit the description above, making it important to have a new and fresh point of view of mathematics as a future educator. 

    The use of media to assist mathematics is the final point the article highlights. Mathematicians may use media to promote change in North American classrooms by using interesting visual aids that simplify difficult ideas, such as using interactive models. Teachers must foster critical thinking and engagement by presenting real-world issues that students can relate to. Students' motivation and engagement are increased when current events or social concerns are integrated with data analysis to show them how math is relevant to their life. Multimedia tools may also be used to accommodate different learning styles, which helps to make math more inclusive. In the end, this method not only expands comprehension but also gives students the tools they need to use mathematical reasoning to promote social change. Ultimately, this approach not only deepens understanding but also empowers students to apply mathematical thinking to drive social change. Although not all coverages are being seen in the media, but acknowledgement is very significant here.