| dc.description.abstract | I have always considered math to be both my friend and foe. The parts of math I enjoy
are algebra, trigonometry, and multiplication. I could find solace in math that was formulaic
and had clear instructions. At times these concepts may be abstract, but there was always a
formula to consult. However, for every unit I found comfort in, there were always more that
distressed me. As much as math would stress me out and make me feel inadequate, I was
always trying methods to make it more enjoyable. I tried the placebo effect (which was not
successful because I knew it was a trick), positive affirmations, and bringing aesthetically
pleasing math accessories to class (i.e., pens, notebooks, etc.). Unfortunately, during my
elementary and high school years, I couldn't find a method that made learning math an
experience I would enjoy.
The moment everything clicked, and I found a method I could utilize came to me
during the second year of my Bachelor of Education degree. My teaching mathematics
professor tasked my class to invent or bring in a math game that would help students
understand a mathematical concept. I was interested in the project and had fun researching
and presenting my game. I was amazed by all the games my peers brought to class. Every
game was fun and helped instil concepts. I had never even considered gamification as a
method that could solve my stress and anxiety concerning math. I honestly didn’t even know
it was possible to teach such a wide array of mathematical subject matter using games as an
aid.
That game project sparked my interest in math and how the subject matter can be
made more accessible and fun for every student. After that, I started researching, reading
books about math education, and listening to podcasts. I got excited by this world where math
could be fun and inclusive instead of an anxiety-ridden subject. That one project has shaped
the course of my Master of Education program and inspired me to create a math game. I
would never have predicted that I would be focused on mathematics at any part of my
academic journey. For me, math has transformed from a scary subject to something
challenging but conquerable. I want every student to feel like they have the potential to
understand math and have fun with the subject. My fun with math may have happened
outside the confines of elementary and secondary school, but it still happened and has
changed a lot of my misgivings concerning the subject. [...] | en_US |
