From the Editor
We who teach children mathematics are constantly faced with criticism from the public who say that we should place greater emphasis on the
basics, which to them means the ability to parrot the basic facts,
whether or not children understand them or can apply them to real-world situations.
However, good mathematics education must involve much more than this. According to NCTM president Glenda Lappan, we cannot be satisfied with teaching mathematical techniques alone. We have to teach children the reasoning, the understanding, the flexibility and the ability to persevere as well. Focusing on the basics until the students master them, and only then moving on to solving interesting problems yields very disappointing results. Although drill and practice have their place, the heart of a successful and enjoyable mathematics program must be on good, challenging problems that motivate students to acquire skills-skills that will in tum open doors to new insights into mathematics problems.
Such experiences are necessary to prepare our children to work in a technological and complex world that offers no easy answers. Only by so doing will children be prepared to be citizens who understand and have the ability to harness the power of science and technology.
The challenge is there for all of us to make mathematics a more enjoyable and challenging subject for our students and ourselves. •
Art Jorgensen
From the Editor
Art Jorgensen
A Special Opportunity
Speakers Wanted
Sandra Unrau
Publications
Curriculum Circle Summary
Donne Chanasyk
Conference Corner
Margaret Mead
April Is Math Education Month
Art Jorgensen
Attention, Calgary Elementary Math Teachers
Membership Director’s Report
Daryl M. J. Chichak
Only in 1999, You Say
Kurt Lewis
Attend the MCATA Math Symposium in May
Beth Morris
MCATA Annual Conference
Mathematics in Harmony with the New Millennium
