Math methods for secondary education teachers : blending new and old ideas for successful student learning

Abstract

This study is an investigation into the mathematics instructional methods of past and present mathematics professors and educators and a blending of these techniques into mathematics instruction in high school mathematics classroom. Selective items chosen for this study were George Polya and his style of instruction. Morris Kline and his views on the American education system, Steven G. Krantz and his views on teaching mathematics, Richard R. Skemp and his assessment of the psychological aspects of learning mathematics, Matt DeLong and Dale Winter and their approach to professional development, and James W. Stigler and James Hiebert and their examination, contrast and comparison of current mathematics instruction in United States, Japan, and Germany. This study also includes discussions on the implementation of various techniques and methods into high school geometry and trigonometry classroom instruction. Specific examples of lessons using some of these techniques are detailed. More successful instructional methods, techniques, and specific lessons time tested by experienced classroom teachers should be passed on to new teacher and fellow instructors through departmental libraries and learning centers.