Workhop for Math teachers

"Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations, or algorithms: it is about understanding.

William Paul Thurston

A two-day workshop titled Concepts are Caught, Not Taught was conducted by Mr A.T.B. Bose, co-founder, Ramanujan Museum and Math Education Centre, at Park Inn Radisson Hotel, Patparganj. The first day of the workshop on 30 September 2024, focused on primary education ( classes 1-5) and was attended by our primary coordinators, Ms Akanksha Budhiraja and Ms Shiwangi Tiwari. The second day, held on 1 October 2024, focused on secondary education ( classes 6 and above) and was attended by our senior Math teachers, Pooja Mendiratta and Ms Asha Lakshmi.

Mr Bose, a highly experienced educator, shared numerous innovative tools designed to help children grasp mathematical concepts through hands'-on learning. He stressed the need to deploy multiple approaches to every concept, allowing students to select the method that suits them best. For example, different strategies for addition, multiplication (such as the lattice method), and division (like the partial quotient method) were discussed, enhancing both teacher and student flexibility in problem-solving.

The second day highlighted teaching topics like integers, identities, area of polygons, linear equations, and factorisation using math manipulatives. Presented interactively, these activities were designed to simplify abstract concepts, making them more accessible to students.

Overall, the workshop provided valuable insights into breaking down complex math concepts into manageable, engaging activities that fostered deeper understanding and student engagement across both primary and secondary levels.