STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is a marketing acronym to let people know this is where learners are doing poorly. However, M for mathematics is the subject where students need the most help and are struggling. Is it poor teaching methods? Or is the material just not exciting? This question has been asked decade after decade, and leaners still regard this subject as the least favorite. Why?
It definitely has something to do with our approach towards teaching Math. Math, by and large, is taught as an abstract subject, with a primary focus on solving as many questions as possible, with every possible variation, with the assumption that practice will make them perfect. On the other hand, the more popular subjects like sciences, PE, and social science follow a more practical approach with ample demonstration of practical application.
Math is not an abstract subject and should be taught with more real-life examples (Not the traditional 'A has 10 apples and B has 20 so......). Once students see its application, they would show more interest and would not be bored to death by adding two numbers 100 times, many times over!
Students tend to find remembering how to calculate numbers. Formulae are taught to students which makes it hard to like since words are much easier to remember for students in general. From what I have found students feel that the subject maths is not 'straight forward'. Students also have a theme of their maths teacher. Finally, students hate maths due to the fact it is boring to them. Although some may get a buzz it is a trend that math is boring, complicated or they just have disliked their teacher and have no interest in learning the subject since they feel their mathematic problems can all be solved with a calculator (which is something I agree with to an extent).
For my research I do tend to like going to see what the people in question do like to say about what questions I may have; ideally someone has already asked the question for me.
References
https://www.kidzsearch.com/questions/20855/what-is-your-least-favorite-subject-and-why
It initially falls on the instructor to make it interesting and, most importantly, provide students with the why, where and how it can be applied in everyday life or future career. A student acquires a sense of purpose when the subject has a clear purpose. Many student experiences in the topic are devoid of any meaningful purpose or practice.
It is the method of teaching and attitude of the teacher towards teaching that makes or marrs a subject. Most teachers make students feel that maths is something which is very difficult and if you can't do it in one go you are not intelligent enough.
I believe the approach should be the opposite. Maths is fun. It is like riddles. Try to think and solve it. If you get it wrong ones try doing it in another way
For any student, the love for Math is directly proportional to the ability of the teacher to instill a passion for the subject plus the teacher's ability to teach.
The interest for mathematics in learner depends on the teaching ability and potential of the teacher as well as the stimulating environment at home as well as in schools. Giving a solid base and making initial concepts very clear are two most important factors which need to be understood clearly by parents as well as teachers. It should be taught through activities and games.
I agree A strong foundation is needed and if you have lost the studnt early, on you are not going to regain the passion for that student.
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