Lesson 4 of Media in Math
Shauna Caroselli's Mini Course
Video
"Video is an electronic medium for the recording, copying and broadcasting of moving visual images." [4]
Overview:
Videos are not typically shown in a math class, but in reality, they can be very helpful in explaining certain concepts. Because videos include both audio and animation, there are a wide variety of clips that can be shown in class to aid instruction. In some cases, videos can explain a concept even better than a teacher because of animation that cannot be done on the board.
Examples:
- Short clips found on: www.youtube.com or www.teachertube.com. There are many videos online that are math related, yet many are just recorded lessons. Be careful to choose videos that deal more with animation than instruction.
- Math films such as: Flatland Movie. This movie goes into detail about the first, second, and third dimension as an animated film.
- Students can make their own math related video. Make sure they know what topics to choose from, that it is appropriate and relevant, and set guidelines (such as length, content, file format, etc.)
Check out these links to get an idea of the kinds of videos that would be great for math classes:
1) [Video animation to find the formula for volume of a sphere] This video is great because the animation would not be able to be done on the board, and is better explained through the video.
2) [Explanation of derivatives] Although the length is long (and may be shortened), the demonstration is great in explaining what derivatives and how they are related to the slope of a line.
3) [Fibonacci Sequence and numbers in nature] Videos like this focus more on the idea of math and less on concepts. Regardless, it is interesting and relates well to math. (A similar video is the video included in the lesson plan suggested below that discusses cool facts on pi. Although there are no concepts to be gained, students have the opportunity to learn more about a certain math aspect in an interesting way).
More About Using Video:
- First of all, there must be a purpose within the video. There are plenty of educational videos out there, yet not are all suitable for the topic being taught. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Does the video relate to my content?
- Are the students getting more out of the video than if I were to teach it myself?
- Is it engaging and interesting?
- Since technology is ever growing, our students are surrounds by all types of media everyday. This is how they learn about the world around them, so it only makes sense to use it to teach with. Students are likely to be more engaged with videos, and offers a great change of pace for a mathematics classroom. Yet it is important to use videos in moderation. They should be used to supplement instruction, and not replace it. There still needs to be room for students to explore the concepts and discuss what was learned [1].
- A good idea when using video (depending on the video) is to offer students a transcript or audio description of the video. This can be used as a good reference and will give all students an equal opportunity to have access to the video content [1].
- Plan ahead. The worst is when you are ready to show a video, and either it doesn't work, or there is some malfunction along the way. Make sure all technology is cooperating, and have the video ready to go before the start of class [2].
- It can also be a good idea to have students work while watching a video. Either have them answer questions, make a list of key ideas, or jot down any thoughts they had. This way they will ensure to be engaged and will help direct their thought process. Also, students need time to reflect. When showing a video, there should always be a discussion that follows. Again, media is used to supplement instruction, not replace it [3].
Benefits:
- Videos are engaging. Students are surrounded by technology, so it is no surprise they learn well through this form of media. As long as the videos are interesting and relates to both math and the students, students will be engaged.
- More effective than teaching. Videos are a great way to supplement instruction. In some cases, videos can do a better job explaining a concept than a teacher. This is because videos offer a way to present information that cannot be done on the board, and is difficult to explain in person.
- Great for visual and audio learners. Since videos offer a visual aid and corresponding audio, it can reach a broader range of learners.
Here is an example math lesson using videos File:Video Lesson.pdf
Take a peek at some of these suggested articles
To learn more about teaching with video [click here]
For some great tips in selecting clips for a math class [click here]
To see some more examples of math videos, learn the best ways to upload them, and learn more on creating your own [click here]
Ask Yourself:
- What did I learn about video?
- How can these ideas apply to a math classroom?
- Is there anything else I need to know to incorporate video in math? Where can I find this?
YOUR TURN!
Under the discussion tab, please do the following:
- Find a video that is related to a math concept
- Provide a brief explanation as to why you chose this particular video and how it enhances the lesson (about 100 words)
- In about 100-200 words, discuss video in math. You may include, but are not limited to:
- What you learned about using video in a math class
- How videos can enhance learning
- How you plan on using videos in your own lessons
- Your thoughts on teaching math through the use of videos
⇨ You will be assessed using the following rubric: Media in Math Rubrics
References:
[1] Using Video in Teaching and Learning. Retrieved from: http://www.jiscdigitalmedia.ac.uk/guide/using-video-in-teaching-and-learning
[2] Movie Clips in the Mathematics Classroom. Retrieved from: http://mathbits.com/MathBits/MathMovies/MathMovies.htm
[3] Education Videos: Ten way to use them well. Retrieved from: http://www.bbcactive.com/BBCActiveIdeasandResources/EducationvideosTenwaystousethemwell.aspx
[4] Video. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Video
