Does 'Math' Count?

The question is constantly asked on a daily basis as to the relevance of mathematics in certain professions. Everyone needs to know how to compute numbers. According to Norris, 2012, maths is needed not because it is needed for the sciences, but it also provides access to undergraduate courses in, for example, engineering, psychology, sciences and social sciences (Norris, 2012). Persons would also like to add that this subject is needed in everyday life.

In places of the society, different levels of mathematics are required. Therefore, looking at what our society is asking of its members, persons may view maths in three sectors:

1. job related maths: This type, one must have maths to be able to fulfill high level mathematical computations, e.g. teaching/lecturing in classrooms, seminars, workshops, etc.
2. occupational maths: This type requires the use of measurements, e.g. basic level – baking, sewing, woodwork or joining; Middle level – nursing, medical practitioner, medical, business owners, technologist, etc. and higher level – construction, engineering, etc.
3. operational maths: This one is general for all persons to have basic computation skills for every day life; like everyday people.

Maths count, it is agreed, but it is the believe that there should be various levels of maths that person should choose according to one’s chosen profession. If there is an occasion where one needs to make a change in profession, then there should be a maths competency exam that one should take to qualify in order to  make the transition.

The high school diploma maths should be a good base for many persons to take on. Also, HEART, along with the Ministry of Education (MOE) can provide operational mathematics which can be recognized world wide. The second level, can be offered between CXC and the MOE and naturally for the first level should be provided at the CSEC level.

It is time that mathematics make sense.  Make Maths Count!

INVESTING IN ICT AND THE BENEFITS

Many years ago, I missed the boat by not getting admitted at an institution that offered computer technology.  I applied multiple times from in my late teens to mid twenties.  This was in the glorious mid-eighties to mid 1990’s. However, when Bill Gates introduced Windows 1995, it gave me a chance to get back into my dream, well, somewhat!  I went to classes that were held by a computer technology teacher, and was able to use what I had learned into university later in life.

However, it was not until I purchased my own computer in 2000 when i felt like I have truly reached somewhere.  It might not have been where I really wanted to be professionally, I was a primary school teacher by then, but what I found was that I became the geek at the school where I worked.  I could assemble, replace, add computer parts.  I was able to utilize graphic programmes to make cards, and designs. But most of all, I was able to prepare letterheads, test items, time tables, etc. That I found was exciting!

Now that I have reached half of a century, I am still in the game! Not only that I can do the above named things, but I am actually ahead of my juniors, both in staff and students.  I find myself being able to utilize little tricks to insert media from various platform whether it be music or graphics into word document and to integrate many of the stuff into the classroom.  Social media, has it’s good and bad, but I focus on the positives.

I get a kick out of it when my students see that I am more versed with short cut prompts and social media inclusions. I even get down with the the text language, but the greatest thing for me is to see when students acquire something new and I in turn acquire knowledge from them. The willingness that they show me, because a teacher actually asks them for help in understanding a new “gig.” Also, my students feel good when they see that I show them respect after receiving the information and re-use it in their learning.  I guess it boils down to critical thinking, reasoning and not being afraid to try something new.  If I do not know, I ask, I search and I research and apply what I have learned to make the learning environment productive.

According to Green & Henriquez-Green, 2005, the basic moves of teaching are (a) having the classroom in a healthy, productive learning environment; (b) having the knowledge and the skill to set up an environment which includes being asked meaningful questions; and (c) knowing how to use assessment to ensure that learning has taken place.

So, no regrets for me, longer road to get there, I am happy with what I have acquired, but most of all, what I have given to my students is even better.