The result of this service-learning experience
shows the significance of connecting
mathematics with hands-on experience. The
data on the impact of the activity demonstrates
that more than three-quarters of the
future teachers reported on the importance
of whole in fraction construction. The activity
with the elementary children gave a platform
to the future teachers to demonstrate
their classroom knowledge and experience
in a hands-on setting. The activity using
crafts helped involve the children and gave
the future teachers an opportunity to discuss
tasks with children. Future teachers were not
only able to interact with children, but roughly about two-fifths of them were able
to witness some of the children’s misconceptions
about fractions. Some future teachers
realized that different approaches and
strategies can lead to the same solution.