Digital math tools have been playing a vital role in the process of learning math in recent times. However, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the whole process of education has undergone a transition. The need for digital tools has increased like never before with math classrooms turning into virtual classrooms. This increased need has given rise to a number of digital math tools, and learners can choose tools as per their needs. It is always important to analyze the effectiveness of any tool before investing time and money on it. It is advisable to take some time out to do research on the tool to understand it better.
Digital tools have become new favorites of both teachers and students. These tools are simple to teach and learn. They use innovative methods to keep the learners’ interest intact. However, not all digital math tools are productive. Some tools could be just a waste of time and deviate students from math learning. Hence there are few essential elements that help in selecting effective digital math tools.
Technology has evolved significantly since the beginning of the 21st century. We are in the digital era where we are dependent on technology for everything. The emergence of computers and smartphones has given rise to many digital tools which can be easily accessed from anywhere. Digital tools refer to “applications, websites or online resources that are created to help learners.” These tools are meant to enhance the process of teaching and learning.
5 Criteria To Select Digital Math Tool
1. Value Addition
A digital tool should be a valuable addition to regular classroom learning. Teachers should check if the tool is adding to the learning process in any way.
Whether it helps to increase the interest of the learner, does it build their curiosity, and does it help students to grasp quickly?
The general understanding is that digital tools are supposed to minimize the work of students and teachers and increase understanding of the concept, in comparison to a regular physical class. If it is vice versa then the tool is definitely not adding up value.
2. User-Friendly
A tool that is handy is more helpful. Teachers and students both should be able to use the tool without any hassle. It should be easily understandable and completely reliable.
If a tool causes frequent technical glitches then it is not a user-friendly tool. Such tools make math learning even more complex and annoying.
3. Curriculum-Oriented
A tool should cover math topics that are prescribed in the curriculum. Only then will it serve the purpose for both teacher and learner. A tool may contain many topics with fancy colors and diagrams, but it will not be useful if it is not aligned with the syllabus/curriculum.
We at Bytelearn are aligned with the common core standards and teachers can easily pick the topics of their choice and help students learn math by Bytelearn’s 1:1 targeted help. Start learning with Bytelearn now, by clicking here.
4. Accessibility
Digital math tools are great. However, every student should be able to access it easily. It may cause disparity among students if all the students do not have access to resources. So, before opting for digital tools it should be ensured that all students have equal accessibility especially if the students are required to use the tool in the classroom as well as at home. Every student should have a laptop or tablet of his own so that there is no restricted or shared access.
5. Relevancy
One must make sure to ask some questions before selecting effective digital math tools. It should provide meaningful tasks rather than tedious work.
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Does it have customized learning and answers? Does it have pre-filled answers without explanation? Is it really relevant to use the tool for better understanding of concepts?
By keeping in mind the above pointers Teachers can select an effective math tool. A good tool can enhance the learning experience of the students.
With the use of digital tools, teachers can teach every student personally at their convenient time and help them with their doubts.
Digital tools give every student an opportunity to express his thoughts irrespective of one’s learning abilities.
Students can make maximum use of these tools by selecting an effective digital math tool. Effective digital math tools help in simplifying complex math concepts and make math learning a pleasant experience for students.
Also read: How To Use Literacy Skills To Solve Math Word Problems
Takeaway
Though there are so many advantages of using digital tools, one should always try and strike a balance between digital and real classroom learning. Math tools are undoubtedly helpful. However even physical classes are good where the teacher explains the math concepts. Teachers can not completely rely on digital platforms. Because a teacher understands their students better than a machine or tool. Ultimately the teacher knows the strengths and weaknesses of every student and he will be able to give proper feedback. Including digital tools in the curriculum should not in itself become a challenging task where the teacher ends up spending more time figuring out how to make the students use them. Hence a balance between the two is very important.
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