Changed Perceptions of Teaching Math

How has this course changed or not changed your perceptions of teaching math?
This class made me realize ways students learn mathematics the best way. Before this class I did not know that manipulatives were the best way to teach students how to do many math concepts. Working with concrete models help students understand the basic process of a concept and then moving to semi-concrete helps the students see the whole procedure. Students should have the opportunity to discover math concepts on their own and work with each other to explain concepts. It is important to have students explain and know why they are doing every process. Not all students come in with the same knowledge and students start a concept at all levels. If students are given the opportunity to explore the concept, they can enter the problem at different levels and can discover different ways to solve the problem.