In the current edition of Learning and with Technology, (2009), authors Niess, M. & Walker, J., in "This Rock 'n' Roll Video Teaches Math", provide illustrations of digital videos which are effective teaching tools in mathematics. Their main point, "Mathematics is a discipline that has significantly advanced through the use of digital technologies with improved computational, graphical and symbolic capabilities." P.36 is supported by references and examples. The first video mentioned is the Abbott and Costello's 1941 movie "In the Navy", wherein Lou divides 28 donuts among seven people. Bud questions the math used for the division of the donuts until he finally gives up trying to convince Lou of his errors. The scene is classic Abbott and Costello and funny to their usual extremes in the slapstick comedy they made famous. The authors contend that this video can be used to have the students take either position and support the argument on way or the other. The visualization of the division problem in such a dynamic example should create a lasting memory for the students.
The authors argue that using video clips from "Geometer's Sketchpad, spreadsheets, calculators, and virtual manipulative, affords students many opportunities to create, use, and make sense of multiple representations of mathematical ideas." p. 36. I visited the first website mentioned and found a treasure strove of video lessons and applications which look interesting. In fact this article mentions many references, which are packed with resources. I know that the math classes I will have will use these video clips and mathematical applications. Even if the students are not able to use these Internet tools at home because they lack access, class time usage will enable me to excite the students with this technology.
Of course at this point, the task of choosing which resource and lesson to use seems daunting and overwhelming. I will need time to develop the appropriate lessons plans and by developing lessons plans using these tools from the beginning will enable me to have well developed lessons plans in just a few years. Even if extra work is required I will dedicate the time to make the lessons plans a positive experience.
The authors referenced: Math Demos: http://mathdemos.gcsu.edu/mathdemos/cycloid-demo/
Index.html, as an example of a website to view for confirmation of their positions argued. This website was free to view and free to use. Many of the videos on that site are extremely useful. Their demonstrations of parabola lessons with sliding line functions appear very useful. Part of the issue I have had to pass the CSET exams in Math are that the cold algebra book I am using for relearning the material does not create lasting memories. These videos do.
Question 1: Will utilizing digital videos in mathematics class enrich the student experience? I feel empowered by the resources I have found by completing the assignments in this class. I now have numerous reference sites to visit when I am ready to prepare my lesson plans. The expansive resources are evidence of the popularity of video use and must evidence their effectiveness. ISTE would not spend so much time on these subjects if they were not effective.
Question 2: Will there be a constant drawback in using digital videos for instructional purposes? Time, time, and time. I feel like I am already behind in preparing my classroom lesson plans. With all the resources available restraints on my using these resources will occur because of time constraints. I do believe however that I will be an effective teacher the first year. My obligation will be to become more effective every year thereafter.
References: Geometer’s Sketchpad: www.dynamicgeometry.com
In the Navy: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7WMi5TUJDso
Math Demos: http://mathdemos.gcsu.edu/mathdemos/cycloid-demo/
index.html
Niess, M., & Walker, J., Learning and Leading in Technology, June/July 2009, "This Rock 'n' Roll Video Teaches Math", p. 36-37., http://www.iste.org/
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Videos can only provide us with a vicarious experience. For really effective learning, sometimes we just need to physically and emotionally experience things.
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