Classroom Teaching Strategies Utilizing Math Trek 7/8 Software

For whole class instruction on the delivery of a new, or expanded concept, the teacher can use software for tutorial and demonstration purposes. A single computer connected to a projection device, such as an LCD projector or television, provides a focus.The teacher has available, at the click of a mouse, unlimited access to numerous examples, clear graphs and precise diagrams. Both tool-based and curriculum-based software is appropriate for this strategy.

For individualized instruction, students can proceed at their own pace through tutorial portions of curriculum-based software. Programs that provide immediate feedback and reinforcement are effective for individualized or independent instruction. This flexible strategy is appropriate for teachers who may have limited access to a computer lab or who may have a small pod of computers in their classrooms.

Students requiring remediation or enrichment can have their individual needs addressed through the integration of software, either tool-based or curriculum-based. When using curriculum-based programs students are directed to specific sections to review the concepts and practice their skills or to extend their skills through challenging, more complex applications. This strategy does not require consistent access to a large bank of computers.

Software is an additional resource for teachers to use to assist students in developing their skills and knowledge. The use of software for practice is effective when the programs provide randomly-generated questions with immediate feedback and explanations.

Software is a useful technique to use to assess students’ mathematical achievement. Many programs provide a reporting feature that tracks scores as well as the specific skills and concepts providing difficulties for individual students. Thus, software assists the teacher to work with the student to set goals and improve learning.

Regardless of the frequency and extent of the access to computers, there are strategies that allow teachers to effectively integrate software and the Mathematics curriculum in order to improve students’ skills, to deliver mathematical concepts, and to assess student achievement.