Journal #3 “Speaking Math Using Chat in the Multicultural Classroom” By Janet Graham and Ted Hodgson

This article was about the discussion of exploring the use of electronic discussion tools in geometry and algebra classes with students of many cultures. This is a research project that was done in Osbourn High School in the Washington DC area and is a multi-ethnic school. As a result of this electronic discussion tool being implemented the development of mathematical understanding for these students has increased for multicultural students. This is a tool that allows students to learn based on their prior knowledge and incorporate what they already know into a subject area that is extremely difficult for many students. So many people today, no matter what their cultural background is or where they are from are familiar with texting or chatting on line. It is a way of life for many people, especially teenagers. By incorporating this aspect of their prior knowledge into math and allow them to communicate in a way that they are comfortable it will allow them to become more comfortable with math and create a low stress environment.

Question #1 – How can I utilize a discussion or chatroom online in my future math class?

I really like assigning students to post a response to a question and explain why they answered it a certain way. This allows me to analyze the students thinking and is an additional way to assess the students understanding to guide what I should teach next. I can always tweak my lesson plans if I think they understand or do something different when teaching a particular lesson because their posts suggest that they did not understand it.

Question #2 - How does this form of communication benefit English Language Learners?

This form of communication is great for students who are English Language Learners. This allows these students to have extra time to post their answers and think about what they want to say before they communicate it. It is also great because they have the opportunity to view the other students responses and discussion to develop a better understand of what is being asked or discussed. This kind of communication requires the students to use a computer which is a skill that is necessary in today’s world even if they do not have one at home. By utilizing the computer lab at school or in a library they are enhancing their technology skills as well.