By Claudia Carias
The K20Connect Leadership Roundtable recently hosted an illuminating webinar on the future of math education. Renowned presenter Kecia Ray led the event, which featured insightful discussions from panelists Claudia Carias and Erin Ndah. The session explored effective strategies for introducing math, creating the ideal classroom setup, and the importance of early engagement in math through manipulatives and real-world experiences. The panel also delved into the critical role of tiered interventions and the support teachers need to bridge learning gaps, highlighting the Alef Pathways program as a valuable tool.
Practical Approaches to Introducing Math
Kecia Ray set the stage with an engaging presentation on the right and wrong ways to introduce math to students. She emphasized the importance of making math relatable and accessible early on. "Math should be seen as a part of everyday life, not just a subject in school," Kecia stated. She highlighted the negative impact of presenting math as a series of abstract concepts without context, leading to disinterest and anxiety among students.
Claudia Carias added to this by discussing the importance of using manipulatives and real-world experiences to hook students early on. "Manipulatives provide a hands-on way to understand complex concepts," she explained. Claudia shared examples of using everyday objects and interactive activities to make math tangible and engaging for young learners. She emphasized that these tools help demystify math, making it more approachable and fun.
Creating the Ideal Classroom Setup
The discussion then shifted to the ideal classroom setup for math education. Erin Ndah stressed the need for a flexible and dynamic learning environment, and classrooms should be designed to facilitate collaboration and exploration. Kecia Ray concurred, adding that technology should be seamlessly integrated into the classroom. Digital tools can enhance learning when used appropriately. Kecia highlighted the importance of training teachers to use these tools effectively, ensuring they complement traditional teaching methods rather than replace them.
The Role of Tiered Interventions
Most of the roundtable focused on tiered interventions—Tier 1, 2, and 3—and their role in bridging learning gaps. Claudia Carias explained that Tier 1 interventions involve high-quality classroom instruction accessible to all students. Tier 2 interventions provide targeted support for students who need additional help, while Tier 3 offers intensive, individualized assistance.
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