Integrating Technology into Math Instruction

According to the experts, the best way to integrate technology into teaching math is to involve the use of calculators, interactive white boards, online tools, and other math-based programs into the mathematics classroom. It's best to teach a concept or lesson first rather than depending on technology to teach a concept. However, technology is a great way to reinforce already developed knowledge and strategies.

Technology should not be used solely as drill practice for students, but should really reinforce what they already know and help them relate concepts to real-world situations. Parents and teachers worry that the use of technology in the classroom will cause students to become dependent on tools such as calculators, the Internet, and programs like Wolfram Alpha. However, if technology is stressed only as a useful tool in the classroom, technology can have countless benefits.

According to Prabhu, after using technology in the classroom for several years students "said they believed they could learn new things in mathematics more easily" and "they thought it was easier to remember things when they used the interactive whiteboard" (2010). Technology has been seen to increase student engagement and enjoyment and seems to really get students excited about learning math. "Moving imagery was clearly a key means for [students] to 'see what is meant,' rather than their trying to 'imagine what is meant' when it is just described by teachers" (Prabhu, 2010). Technology provides interactive learning, animations, and videos, which allow students to develop a better understanding of key concepts.

In an article on edutopia, Smith discusses the importance of technology because it allows teachers to keep track of students' strengths and weaknesses and use that information to help guide further classroom instruction. "One technology that jump-starts algebraic thinking for middle school students is SimCalc, a program that uses computer-based graphs, animations, symbols, and tables to make difficult concepts....easier for students to learn" (Smith, 2008). The computer program allows students to go through a series of tutorials which explain key concepts like rates of change and acceleration through real life situations such as a soccer game. The program helps visualize concepts for students who learn best visually and also provides a hands-on method of learning. "Students can explore dynamic relationships, which is simply not possible without these machines" (Smith, 2008). Many concepts in mathematics are difficult for students to understand because they can't see how it applies in the real world.

Technology allows teachers to give students alternative ways of learning, practicing, and mastering skills, while preparing them with the ability to use different kinds of technology. This way, students know multiple ways of presenting data, concepts, and information (STEM Central). Students are also gaining skills in collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking, as they become more comfortable asking questions, posing possible solutions, and discussing problems with other students in the classroom. When students are using technology in the math classroom, learning becomes student-centered and does not necessarily have to be teacher-led.
"It’s fun for the kids, and one great thing is that a lot of kids out there do know how to use computers, so they’re willing to help or share their knowledge. It’s a great way to get the kids to help me teach" (Lin, 2007). Finally, with experience using different kinds of technology help lessen the anxiety some students feel with math and the use of calculators and such on standardized tests.


In my own classroom, in order to help my students master mathematics, I will provide them with many different ways to learn each concept and plenty of opportunities to practice each skill. I think it's important for students to be able to use calculators as a tool for math, to help them recognize patterns and to reinforce skills they already know. Since modern technology expands more quickly than we can learn about it, I would ensure that students knew how to use many difference kinds of technology by integrating it into the practice of concepts. In this way, the students will become more comfortable with various programs, websites, and interactive learning tools while they learn to collaborate. Technology is a wonderful way to relate math concepts to real-world subjects and situations; this also provides students with the connection they need to fully grasp and enjoy math. I would teach concepts with manipulatives and interactive whiteboards to engage students. Then I would incorporate interactive games, websites, and other helpful tools to reinforce the lesson and provide opportunities for problem solving and critical thinking.


Integrating technology into the math classroom has been observed to:

• improve student performance
• have a positive impact on student achievement
• support the development of problem solving skills
• assist students in mastering math concepts and applications they have trouble with otherwise
• provide visual demonstrations of math concepts
• increase motivation to learn 

According to educational experts, the use of technology in the mathematics classroom is extremely beneficial. Technology engages students and allows them to visualize abstract ideas and concepts they otherwise wouldn't fully understand.

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Resources

Education Scotland. (2012). Enquiry in Mathematics. Retrieved January 28, 2013, from http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/stemcentral/about/learningteaching/enquiry/mathematics.asp

Lin, C. (2007, April 10). Beliefs about using technology in the mathematics classroom:  Interviews with pre-service elementary teachers. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science & Technology Education, 4 (2), 135-142. Retrieved from http://www.ejmste.com/v4n2/Eurasia_v4n2_Lin.pdf

Prabhu, M. (2010, March 17). Technology adds to students' math comprehension. Retrieved January 28, 2013, from www.eschoolnews.com/2010/03/17/technology-adds-to-students-math-comprehension/

Smith, L. (2008, May 22). Winning Equation: How Technology Can Help Save Math Education. Retrieved January 28, 2013, from www.edutopia.org/technology-math-education STEM resources