Sunday, January 24, 2010

Jump-math programme

Finally, a math programme that agrees with some of my perceptions. The programme is JUMP, founded by John Mighton, a writer and mathematician who devotes most of his time to JUMP, a charity that helps youngsters learn to think mathematically.
One of the tenets of his system is that students need to practise math and constantly take on challenges a little above what they are used to doing.
A growing body of cognitive research suggests that practice and motivation may be more important than innate talent in developing expertise in chess, music, sports or other pursuits.
JUMP has evolved, over the years, from a tutoring program to a charity that trains teachers and produces free teaching guides. It also sells workbooks that cover the curriculum from grade 1 to 8-the profits go back into the charity.
Dr. Solomon says research does not support the idea that the "discovery" approach to teaching math is the most effective. "It is a mystery why we ever went down that route."
Now comes the fight. There are people who built their careers on this discovery approach and toed the line supporting this approach.
Hopefully, reason will prevail and research will be done.

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