Math Forum Discussions

COVbECKERS@aol.com

Posts: 34
Registered: 12/6/04

Re: lecturing
Posted: Jul 7, 1995 3:05 AM

Plain Text

>Recently, the following exchange took place re new "razzle dazzle" methods
of teachning between B. Becker and Marge.

>But I believe the main issue is one of considering what method, applicable
to
>the vast majority of students, is best at imparting knowledge in the context
>of an educational environment.
>
>I fear the reliance upon new fangled contraptions like multi media is a lazy
>way out for both teacher and student to say that they covered a topic,
>without really exploring it in depth and with intellectual rigor.
>
>B. Becker
>
>

I agree that new fangled methods must be evaluated for their merit aside from
their dazzle. But why should their be one method? Why should we not combine
methods?

marge

To which I reply, "Nothing." Except I fear that different teaching methods
come and go like yesterdays fads, and are largely a failed attempt to deal
with a problem (unmotivated students) in an indirect way, without recognizing
the true nature of the problem. I mean, it shouldn't be so much a question
of "how can I reach them" as it should be a question of "what about society
today makes them so resistant to wanting to ACTIVELY participate in the
educational experience."

Yes, teachers should consider their methods. But my point is that the other
side of the educational "equation" may be more important to focus on in terms
of the generally perceived failures of the educational system.

Next, let's get into the issue of vouchers and their purported positive
impact upon the educational process.

B. Becker