June 8, 2010Technology in Mathematics

Instruction CUNY

TEACHING EACH STUDENT INDIVIDUALLY …

A personal approach in teaching DL Mathematics

(based on experience teaching Statistics)

Dr. Alla Morgulis

In this presentation …

• Challenges of teaching (Mathematics)DL

• Technology offers a solution

• Benefits and Outcomes

• Challenges of teaching (Mathematics)DL

• Technology offers a solution

• Benefits and Outcomes

Challenges …• Students are used to conventional

methods of teaching.

• Perceived lack of structure or support.

• Computer skills (or the lack thereof…) are a factor.

• Students are used to conventional methods of teaching.

• Perceived lack of structure or support.

• Computer skills (or the lack thereof…) are a factor.

Overcoming challenges …

1. Establishing and clearly articulating class routine

2. Establishing resources for technical help

3. Maintaining communication through Discussion Board or e-mail

4. Meeting with students “ in person” in the Virtual Classroom

Technology solution …

Technology solution …

Technology solution …

Promotes personal connections

Allows to discuss a topic in real

time

Allows instantaneous feedback

Allows group communication

Not another chat program

Benefits …

“ … I was afraid of online math classes before, but this proved to be a good experience.”

“ … I never had a professor that takes time out of her personal schedule to meet with students online. I met with her and a few more students in the virtual classroom (at 9pm !), and it was really helpful.”

“ … I liked the fact that professor cares about my learning and met with me as much as was needed.”

“ … I love the Virtual Classroom, it’s like a messenger, but much better!”

“ … I didn’t think I can pull it off with my newly born baby. But professor met with me online when my baby was asleep.”

Outcomes …

Galusha, J. (1997). Barriers to Learning in Distance Education.  University of Southern Mississippi, Interpersonal Computing and Technology, 168.144.129.112         Hara N., Kling R. (1999). Students' frustrations with a Web-based distance education course. First Monday, firstmonday.org  Hara N. (2000). Student distress in a web-based distance education course. Information, Communication & Society, informaworld.com Valentine D. (2002). Distance learning: promises, problems and possibilities. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, westga.edu 

Reading …