Technology in Math and Science

Maria Rojas

Angela Cyrus

Jennifer Sepulvado

Foundation and Standards of Math

Six Crucial Issues Equity Curriculum Teaching Learning Assessment Technology

Math Standards• Number and Operations• Algebra• Geometry• Measurement• Data Analysis and Probability• Problem Solving• Reasoning and Proof• Communication• Connections• Representations

Implementing the Standards

Here are three suggestions when selecting and using software.

Consider an appropriate combination of off- and on-computer activities.

Consider technology as a mathematical tool rather than as an instructive tool.

View technology as a tool for developing student thinking.

Problems

The practice of teaching math has been more traditional than any other curriculum area.

Some people that oppose the call for reform feel that it is passing fads and will eventually go away.

There is also controversy about the use of calculators in math classes.

Integrating Technology into Mathematics

Teaching and LearningTechnology Supports:

•Numbers and Operations- Technology allows students to better understand place value,

multiplication,division, and fractions (numerators and denominators). Such programs include Easy Early Math, NumberSense, or Unifix as well as

spreadsheets and calculators.

•Algebra- Technology helps students build the concepts of Algebra using tools such as graphing calculators, computer based programs like Green Globs, Derive, and TI Interactive.

•Geometry- Technology helps students visualize as well as memorize geometric concepts and facts with computer programs like The Geometer, Study Works, 3D Images, and KaleidoMania!

Technology Supports:•Measurements- Electronic devices help both students and teachers understand and solve problems that involve measurements. Devices such as GPS, Lady Bug Maze and spreadsheets.

•Data Analysis and Probability- Technology allows students to analyze, comprehend, and represent data with programs like Tabletop and Tabletop Junior.

•Problem Solving- Computers help students develop “problem solving abilities” as well as use trial and error to find the solutions to mathematical problems.

•Reasoning and Proof- Technology allows students to use deductive proof and inductive reasoning to solve problems using programs like Geometer Sketchpad.

Technology Supports:

•Communication- Computers and calculators allow students to communicate either through email or group group assignments.

•Connection- Students can gather information with calculators then connect to a computer. This allows students to analyze and better understand the information that they acquire.

•Representations- There are different computer programs that are appropriate for children of all ages in order for them to better understand mathematics.

Issues & Problems in Science Education

There are disagreements between the National Science Education Standards in 1996 and the Benchmarks for Scientific Literacy as to what should be taught at which grade level and to what extent, yet they share the same fundamental educational vision. This includes these facets:

* Emphasizing inquiry – the teachers focus their inquiries on real phenomena, in the classrooms, outdoors, or in labs so that the students are challenged but are very capable of doing their work

* Scientific literacy – the knowledge & understanding of the scientific concepts and processes required for personal decision-making and participation

* Focus on understanding, not surface knowledge – the curriculum needs to be reduced so that children fully understand the concepts rather than cramming a lot of information into their short term memories

Integrating Technology into Science Teaching and Learning

Technology Supports:

Scientific Processes – A big aspect of science is collecting and organizing data, which the use of computer or calculator probes is one mean to support this endeavor. Probeware is a type of educational software tool that has probes and software for collecting data.

Scientific Inquiry Environment – Technology can be utilized to create environments that provide children with strategies and tools to engage in extended inquiry

Scientific Literacy – The World Wide Web is a very good tool to help children be able to “ask, find, or determine answers to questions derived from curiosity about everyday experiences.”

Integrating Technology into Science Teaching and Learning

Technology Supports:

Student Understanding of Science Concepts – Decisions, Decisions and Struggle for Survival are great programs that help the children have a better and deeper understanding of scientific concepts

Building of Scientific Models – Model-It is a great program that allows the learner to make qualitative models of cause-and-effect relationships

The End