Methods of Teaching Mathematics in Primary Classes: Experience of General Education Teachers

Authors: [1] Dr. Nandini Jayachandran [2] Dr. Immanuel Thomas [3] Dr. Lekshmi. K.

Pages: 24-30

Abstract:

Math is a subject that has much applicability in our daily life as it can directly affect the earning capacity and livelihood of a person. This accounts for the increased relevance of Learning disability in Mathematics (MD)/ Developmental dyscalculia (DD) as a topic of scientific research. Studies indicate that early identification and remediation can overcome DD to a large extent. Development of any remediation program for children with DD requires an appraisal and knowledge of the current methods followed in classroom teaching. With this in mind the present study was taken up to understand the teaching practices followed in Mathematics by general education teachers of primary schools. Focus group discussion participated by primary level teachers was employed for the purpose. The results indicated that there existed certain general methods employed by almost all the teachers for teaching the subject of Math, and also certain specific teaching styles employed by some individual teachers. The teachers also reported that there are certain differences between actual teaching practices and curricular guidelines given for teaching.