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Prof. Dr. Marzita Puteh and the students.

Cooperative learning and peer tutoring in overcoming mathematics anxiety

Project cooperative learning and peer tutoring in overcoming mathematics anxiety

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Action Research - Assignment 4 (School-Based Project)
Action Research - Assignment 4

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Mathematics Anxiety Presentation

Mathematics Anxiety Presentation

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ISSUE: MATHEMATICS ANXIETY

Mathematics Anxiety

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Self-help Techniques

Students have the big indeed to learn the self-help techniques for combating math anxiety. These techniques include:

1. learn stress management and relaxation techniques

2. combat negative thinking, visualize yourself succeeding

3. do “easiest” problems first, start preparing early before the examination 

4. try to understand the “why” of math concepts rather than memorizing

5. find a support group do math every day and study smart

6. utilize all your resources 

7. reward yourself for hard work!

Shift Toward Assessing Students

Schools really need to shift toward assessing students' full mathematical power by giving students multiple opportunities to demonstrate their full mathematical understanding, aligning assessment with curriculum and instruction, and regarding assessment as continual and recursive (NCTM, 1995). Teachers need to employ alternative forms of assessment in math classes, such as: observations, questioning, interviews, performance tasks, self-assessments of students, work samples, portfolios, writing samples, paper and pencil tests, and standardized tests. By carrying out the authentic assessment, students will be more likely to be problem solvers for the real life situations.  Teachers also need to emphasize more communication in the classroom through discussion, problem solving, discourse, and writing.  

 

Students are very crucible of math anxiety because the math exams represent a do-or-die challenge that can inflame all one’s doubts and frustrations. Here are some techniques and strategies that the teachers must teach to improve students’ test-taking experience, such as   note-taking skills, test-taking skills, relaxation techniques, tell the importance of homework or studying, the way to read and use the textbook, address the positive “I” messages and also guiden students on visualization of success in math.  

Collaborative Learning

Students who collaborate can develop a synergy among themselves which supports their learning, helping them to learn more, more quickly, and more lastingly. Another practical idea for teacher is having the cooperative group work so that able to provide students a chance to exchange ideas. Cooperative groups provide students a chance to exchange ideas, to ask questions freely, to explain to one another, to clarify ideas in meaningful ways and to express feelings about their learning (Furner & Berman, 2002). These skills acquired at an early age will be greatly beneficial throughout their adult working life.