-Suni Sreenivas, Academic Coordinator, Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya
Mathematics is a foundational subject critical to various fields, yet many students suffer from Mathematical Anxiety, or Math Phobia. Over my 30 years of teaching Mathematics, I have seen how this condition involves a feeling of tension and apprehension that interferes with the ability to manipulate numbers and solve mathematical problems, both in daily life and academic settings. Addressing this issue requires a concerted effort from parents, teachers, students, and schools to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
The Role of Teachers
Teachers must remain positive and enthusiastic about math, and the first step is to build confidence in children.
- Presenting the subject as creative and engaging can significantly motivate students.
- Providing opportunities for students to practice and master essential skills for computational fluency is crucial.
- Strengthening basic math skills through regular practice, including mental math and incorporating these skills into games and warm-up activities, can make learning more enjoyable.
- Emphasizing open-ended problems that require critical thinking, rather than rote memorization of formulas, is essential.
- Encouraging students to take risks and develop a growth mindset fosters motivation and resilience.
- Employing diverse teaching styles, a step-by-step approach, and a variety of assessments is necessary to meet the needs of all students, and addressing misconceptions promptly is vital.
- Integrating math into daily life makes it more real and meaningful for students.
The Role of Schools
Schools should promote a positive math culture by establishing resources such as a Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) Lab for foundational levels and a Math Lab for other standards. Introducing student-friendly software like ‘Math Buddy’ can also be beneficial. These initiatives should be integrated into the school timetable to ensure regular and consistent exposure.
The Math Lab should focus on experiential learning and gamification to maintain students’ interest and foster a deep understanding of numeracy, spatial learning, and mathematical concepts. Designing the lab to encourage exploration, experimentation, and even mistakes can help students develop resilience and a positive attitude towards challenges.
Continuous professional development for teachers is also vital. Subject-enriching programs can keep teachers updated and motivated, ensuring they are equipped with the latest teaching strategies and knowledge. This, in turn, enables them to provide the best possible education for their students.
The Role of Parents
Parents play a crucial role in mitigating Math Anxiety. It is essential for parents to be compassionate and understanding of their child’s struggles. Providing quality time, encouraging a positive mindset, and teaching resilience are key. Parents should help children face challenges head-on, reinforcing that perseverance and effort are vital components of success in mathematics.
The Role of Students
Students themselves must recognize that practice is fundamental to mastering math. When doubts arise, they should not hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification. Understanding that math concepts build upon one another is crucial – as missing foundational ideas can make advanced topics significantly more challenging. Collaborative learning, where students work together to solve problems and share their understanding, can also be highly beneficial.
Overcoming Math Phobia requires a patient, positive, and supportive approach from parents, students, teachers, and schools alike. By working together and implementing these strategies, we can create an environment where math is not just a subject to be endured but one to be enjoyed and mastered.
Also read: Happiness Lab in Navrachana Vidyani Vidyalaya : An Innovative Approach to Promote Student Happiness
