What do we mean by "Learning with Understanding": Lesson 2
Introduction
Carrying some ideas from Lesson 1 forward, we will be analyzing the differences between traditional teaching methods and reform teaching methods. Think about the traditional American classroom. From my experiences, it was very teacher-centered. In the 21st century, we are focusing on ways teachers can make their classrooms more student-centered. Providing learners with student-centered lessons allows students more opportunities to learn with understanding. In the lesson we will watch some videos of teacher-centered lessons and student-centered lessons. These examples are from different subject areas but can be applied to mathematics.
By the end of this lesson, participants will be able to answer and reflect on the following questions:
- What are the differences between reform teaching methods and traditional teaching methods?
- What can teachers do to promote learning with understanding?
Assignments
Watch these videos. These are examples of teacher-centered lessons.
Watch these videos. These are some examples of ways teachers have made their classrooms more student-centered.
Watch this video to learn more about student-centered learning.
Reflection Using the videos provided and by conducting your own research, compare and contrast traditional teaching methods to reform teaching methods. What are some strategies mathematics teachers can use to promote learning with understanding? Why is teaching with understanding important? Find at least one outside source for this reflection and share your findings in the discussion page for Lesson 2.
Links
Next Lesson: What do we mean by "Learning with Understanding": Discussion
Back to Lesson 1: What do we mean by "Learning with Understanding": Lesson 1
Back to Unit 1: Unit 1: What do we mean by “Learning with Understanding”?
Mini-Course: Using Visualizations to Teach Mathematics with Understanding (Spring 2015 Mini-Course)
Portfolio Page: Melissa Connor's Portfolio Page for Spring 2015 Mini-Course