Journal #2: Speaking Math

Journal #2
Speaking Math: Using Chat in the Multicultural Math Classroom" by Janet Graham and Ted Hodgson

This article is about using online discussion tools in multicultural math classes to allow students to discuss math concepts and vocabulary. As the article says the “goal is to encourage students to use mathematical vocabulary to co-construct meaning…and interpret relevant portions of their textbook or lecture notes in terms that make sense to them.”
The article then goes on to give an example of a math chat where student discuss a concept they are covering in class. It shows how the students start by giving basic definitions of the word, but as the discussion goes on you can see how they start to gain a better grasp of what they are talking about. They also begin to talk about the information in terms of broader concepts and applicability. In order to show the benefits of using this technique the authors compared the performance of students in a standard class structure and one that uses a combination of the standard structure and online discussion. The study found that students in the combination class showed a better “use and recognition of math vocabulary terms.”
I like that this article showcases a new and innovative way to help students gain a better understanding and grasp of the concepts. As the article states, this technique will also help English language learners and students who might need more time to compose their thoughts to articulate their responses. I also think that, in times like these where the internet and online technology is often such a large part of the students’ life; incorporating these type of techniques (that they enjoy and can relate to) are a great way to give students another way to show and expand their knowledge.

Questions:
1.) Q: How do you think that you could use this in your class setting?
A: In the article they were teaching about math concepts and terms. I want to teach science and I think that you could do something like; instead of just assigning the students to look up definitions of terms and copy them down, you could assign them a group of words and have them discuss what they mean and their application to the subject that you are learning.

2.) Q: Who do you think will most benefit from this technology tool?
A: This would be the most beneficial to students who need more time to gather and then express their thoughts (like second language learners and learning disabled students.) this would give them the extra time that they need to formulate what they are going to say and it takes some of the stress of having to come up with the answers on the spot in the classroom.