Afraid of Maths?

‘Maths Anxiety’

Mathematics is a subject area that is often highly associated with negativity and anxiety. Much of this occurs in adults and stems from previous experiences. Haylock (2006 p2) states that “there are widespread confusions amongst the adult population in Britain about many of the basic mathematical processes.” This misunderstanding creates a negative attitude and thus formulates anxiety amongst student and qualified teachers. It is vital as a teacher to have understanding and confidence with mathematics. Haylock (2006 p1) states “one of the best ways for children to learn and understand much of the mathematics in the primary-school curriculum is for a teacher who understands it to explain it to them”. The key elements here are understanding and explanation. Teachers have a responsibility to the children they teach and a part of this is to have a sound knowledge of subjects in order to explain and enrich the pupil’s learning experience. A solid basis of understanding will mean that teachers can ensure that pupils are appropriately progressing through the curriculum.

My Anxiety with Maths

The day of the first input on Discovering Mathematics, I found myself feeling extremely anxious and questioning why I had chosen the module in the first place.

To my surprise, most others in the class appeared to have the same mindset. With either a lacking confidence or general dislike for mathematics. During the input, the question was raised; can you actually dislike maths as a whole? Mathematics covers so many bases that to dismiss the entire subject is quite a statement. This encouraged me to question my own supposed dislike of the subject.

My Relationship with Maths

In the 4 years since passing my higher maths, I have had an admittedly negative and dismissive attitude to the subject entirely. If the word ‘maths’ or anything related pops up, my immediate response is to exclaim how much I hate maths. Thinking deeper, I don’t believe that I hate maths. I think perhaps I have just complaisant and accepted that I have little confidence in maths. Until now, it has been easy enough to say that I don’t like maths and move on. However, I think this is a mask for my lacking confidence.

Hopes?

I think this module will teach me new and improved approaches to the teaching of mathematics. In turn hopefully boosting my confidence to appear in front of a class and teach maths well. After just one week, I can see the importance of encouraging enthusiasm and confidence with my pupils. I also am hopeful that this module will rebuild my personal relationship with maths.

My aim for this module is to deepen my understanding and break down the personal barriers I have with mathematics. I think this all begins with a willingness to change my attitude towards a subject I have never really enjoyed and this elective is a positive step in this direction.

To end, I discovered this video. These children are commenting on their feelings towards mathematics. This really hit home for me as I realised that i have made every single one of these comments myself as an adult. So I want to improve my maths-esteem.

References 

With Maths I can. (2016). With Maths I can. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLPFaOvhlKw. Last accessed 16th September 2018

Haylock, D. (2006) Mathematics Explained for Primary Teachers. London: Sage Publishers.

One thought on “Afraid of Maths?

  1. Thank you for your honest reflection, it was very interesting to read. I liked your use of literature to create a context for what you shared. I also really enjoyed the video you shared, a powerful message.

    Going forward I would suggest making use of a wider range of texts as this will give you a greater perspective and encourage more criticality.

    Reply

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