Teaching Approaches
Students in a mathematics class typically demonstrate diversity in the ways they learn best.
It is important, therefore, that students have opportunities to learn in a variety of ways –
individually, cooperatively, independently, with teacher direction, through hands-on experience,
through examples followed by practice. In addition, mathematics requires students to
learn concepts and procedures, acquire skills, and learn and apply mathematical processes.
These different areas of learning may involve different teaching and learning strategies. It is
assumed, therefore, that the strategies teachers employ will vary according to both the object
of the learning and the needs of the students.
In order to learn mathematics and to apply their knowledge effectively, students must develop
a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. Research and successful classroom practice
have shown that an investigative approach, with an emphasis on learning through problem
solving and reasoning, best enables students to develop the conceptual foundation they need.
When planning mathematics programs, teachers will provide activities and assignments that
encourage students to search for patterns and relationships and engage in logical inquiry.
Teachers need to use rich problems and present situations that provide a variety of opportunities
for students to develop mathematical understanding through problem solving.