In daily work in educational centers, both for teachers and families, many doubts arise on various topics. Concerns about how to address difficulties that appear in the classroom, on the playground, or while doing homework at home drive us to seek options that can respond to these concerns. And, then, the offer of methodologies, actions, and even training that we encounter appears like an open market.
Lately, I have been hearing a lot about certain methodologies for teaching mathematics in classrooms, especially in primary education, that are having a strong impact on students, families, and even teachers. These are methodologies that stray from strategies that encourage collaboration with families from home. It becomes challenging for families to help because they do not know the processes, and there are no materials they can consult because they are only worked on in school. The general feeling from those discussing these topics is that it creates a barrier and, in many cases, causes insecurity about the results obtained and, at the very least, makes it difficult to share learnings.
If we consider what scientific evidence says on this subject, we see that, in order to generate maximum learning, it is important to focus on the type and quality of interactions, rather than the specific methodology used. Therefore, although different methodologies can be used, the priority should be to ensure that the interactions are of high quality. Additionally, when it comes to interactions, it is essential to assess the difficulty of the content (to ensure it is challenging) and the diversity of interactions (since learning doesn’t only happen in the classroom with the teacher and peers, but also with families and others in the environment). Thus, engaging in dialogue with families about the approach that can be used allows for consensus on how to tackle the challenge and find the most effective solution.
When we have doubts about educational matters, the most logical and effective thing to do is to look at what social impact research says about the issue. It provides us with guarantees on the best way to approach the situation. Therefore, teacher training based on impactful scientific publications, discussing their key points, and opening these discussions to the community is the most equitable and powerful option. Ignoring this knowledge can have disastrous consequences for students because it may weaken their progress in essential areas for their learning, academic development, and personal growth.
Article translated from Periódico Educación
Adjunct Professor at Universitat de València. His research areas include Successful Educational Practices, Educational Inclusion, New Alternative Masculinities, and the Preventive Socialization of Gender Violence.