Some Final Reflections on Math

As we begin our last week of the summer semester, we have been assigned in both of my classes to review what we've learned and summarize how that learning has impacted us, and how it may effect our own classroom instruction. As I read back over my course journal from the classes, I was absolutely amazed at the growth I experienced in just one semester.
I finished my Bachelor's program 3 years ago with an emphasis on elementary education, so I really had no specialized math training. I ended up in the role of a fifth grade math specialist, and thought that because the concepts were at a fifth grade level, I knew most of what I needed about the math to successfully teach it. I could not have been more wrong. With each concept we have explored in the math classes, I have developed a new awareness and appreciation for the ways in which these concepts are connected. As my conceptual understanding grows, so does my understanding of how I need to modify and re-evaluate my current teaching practices so that students are not just learning at a surface level, but truly experiencing math in a way that is meaningful to them.
Since I have begun the math program at Lesley, the thought has struck me several times that I didn't even know that my own understanding was lacking until I began taking these courses. It leaves me marveling at how much more I have to learn and excited that I have the opportunity to apply what I am learning to become a better teacher. I've truly enjoyed the learning process, and it's been very helpful to be in the "student" seat again and to be reminded how it feels to struggle with a problem, or to triumph over a problem, and to learn all over again how engaging guided exploration can be, especially when paired with peer support.
I'm looking foward to my next class in September! Jen Nelson