In order to assess the effectiveness of the method. A number
experimental study has been undertaken. One of such experiment wasconducted by (1) James H. Vance (University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada) and Thomas E. Kieren (Department of Secondary
Education, University of Alberta, Edmonton 7, and Canada). This particular experiment was on the comparison study of mathematical achievement of students in junior classes in Secondary Schools under
different methods of teaching. Three different method of teaching were
used:
(i) The mathematics laboratory method.
(ii)
The class discovery method (it should be noted here that a discovery method does not mean a laboratory method, though alllaboratory methods are discovery method).
(iii) Traditional method.
Of the three groups, the achievement of the group for which the laboratory approaches was the highest. It was also found that the laboratory group appeared to have a slightly better attitude towards mathematics than the other group – when measured by a standard
attitude instrument.
The above report is an indication of how tremendous the mathematical achievement of our students can be under this strategy, and particularly
how the attitude of students towards mathematics can become positive.
Mathematics, our educators are therefore urged to take up the challenge presented by the negative attitudes of our students under the chalk-talk
indispensable subject can be made more positive. Our students can learn
and enjoy mathematics and we should let them be aware of this. Let usbe concerned enough about the mathematical achievement of our students as to encourage teachers to experiment and implement this new
method that have proved successful. The issue that is being put across in this approach of teaching mathematics is summarised in the following
Chinese saying:
“I hear and I forget I see and I remember I do and I understand”
ANSWER TO SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE 1
The need for laboratory approach as a method to consider for used in our mathematics classroom. A number of factors affecting the teaching
and learning of mathematics necessitate the need for laboratory
approach; these factors include:-
(1) The set back from the use of traditional approach. Traditional
approach is often characterised by the use of text-books, it consists of abstractions and manipulation of symbol which are
not related to the real world.
(2) The negative of most students towards the learning of mathematics. It must be indispensable position in the world’s progress, yet it is well-known that is neither popular nor attractive
to many students.
SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE 2
Procedures for a laboratory lesson include the following:
(i) The preparation of guide sheets is essential and should be made up in such a way that pupils know what they are to investigate.
(ii) Ensure that all equipment and materials needed are ready before the lesson.
(iii) The laboratory should be set, comfortable seats and table for
students.
(iv) The students too must be prepared to work and to assume full
responsibilities for laboratory work.
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4.0 CONCLUSION
When learners are given the opportunity to learn mathematics through
an explorative and practical approach, they not only enjoy it but it also enhances their understanding of the concept to be learnt. This will alsolead to better performance and positive attitude of learners towards mathematics. The laboratory approach is one method that helps learners
in this direction. As a teacher, you should be conversant with this method and use it for your learners, or if a ‘teacher of teachers’ – then
teach those who will be able to use it for their learner directly.
5.0 SUMMARY
The following are the highlights of the considerations of this unit:
(i) Definition of the laboratory approach of teaching mathematics.
(ii) The need and purpose of laboratory approach of teaching mathematics
(iii) The features of laboratory approach of teaching mathematics (iv) Samples of laboratory lessons were given and
(v) The success of the method was related.
ANSWER TO SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE 1
The need for laboratory approach as a method to consider for used in our mathematics classroom. A number of factors affecting the teaching
and learning of mathematics necessitate the need for laboratory
approach; these factors include:-
(1) The set back from the use of traditional approach. Traditional
approach is often characterised by the use of text-books, it consists of abstractions and manipulation of symbol which are
not related to the real world.
(2) The negative attitude of most students towards the learning of mathematics. It occupies an indispensable position in the world’s progress, yet it is well-known that is neither popular nor attractive
to many students.
SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE 2
Procedures for a laboratory lesson include the following:
(i) The preparation of guide sheets is essential and should be made
(ii) Ensure that all equipment and materials needed are ready before the lesson.
(iii) The laboratory should be set, comfortable seats and table
available to students.
(iv) The students too must be prepared to work and to assume full