|
Joel Lewinsohn is a math and physics teacher with a history in mechanical engineering. As a former engineer and now teacher, he recognizes the real world value of mathematics and its application. As important as math is, some students resist the subject due to intimidation or negative perceptions towards math and their own comprehension abilities. As a teacher of higher mathematics like algebra to pre-calculus and physics, the bulk of students who take his courses have a grasp on math, but there are still students who struggle with the topic and resist asking for help. “Students who fall behind in math are those more at risk of dropping the subject. Much of math anxiety is started young and carries through their educational years,” says Joel Lewinsohn. So what happens when a student develops math anxiety? “Although a student recognizes the importance of math and its necessity, the student changes their perception towards the subject and if not encouraged or helped to overcome their doubts the student will try to avoid math altogether,” says Joel Lewinsohn. There are a number of strategies teachers can use to help students embrace math as a subject. Part of success comes from changing students’ perceptions about mathematics. “Math is a subject of study like any other. It takes practice but needs to be presented in a format relevant to students. It is not some impractical equation on the board,” says Joel Lewinsohn. As a mathematics teacher, Joel Lewinsohn tries to help students understand the real world application of their study. Instead of scrawling out equations on the board and repeating the same explanation, Joel Lewinsohn involves discussion. “Through engaging discussions and industry examples, I help students understand math from a different perspective. It makes the subject more relatable and less intimidating,” says Joel Lewinsohn. So how can students overcome their math anxiety? Joel Lewinsohn believes most of it must be done by the student. When students struggle the best solutions are to: - Ask questions: speak up and don’t be intimidated. Math anxiety is common so there are definitely other students just as confused.
- Remain positive in your ability to eventually figure it out. Work with the teacher, a tutor, or fellow student slowly and ask questions along the way.
- Do the math. Equations can be memorized but applying them and understanding them requires practice.
- Do not allow yourself to think you are inept at math. Anyone can learn math with patience and practice.
For more information on math anxiety and learning to overcome it and appreciate math, you can contact Joel Lewinsohn at (360) 402-5483 or write to 7825 Forest Park Drive NW Olympia, Washington 98502. Joel Lewinsohn also recommends sites like: http://www.education.com/reference/article/math-anxiety/
http://news.uchicago.edu/article/2012/09/12/math-anxiety-causes-trouble-students-early-first-grade
http://math.about.com/od/reference/a/anxiety.htm
Related Articles -
Joel Lewinsohn, math anxiety, students,
| 
