I: This time, I would like to have your opinions about teaching methods in your
mathematics classes. First of all, could you explain the teaching pattern you adopt in
your mathematics classes?
T: I often adopt problem-solving teaching methods at the introductory stage, aiming to
encourage pupils to build up new mathematical concepts. Problem-solving teaching
methods start with encouraging pupils to try to solve the problems individually, and
afterwards, lead to a conclusion through discussion in a group. I give them opportunities
to discuss in a small group or as a whole class. I sometimes give them questions to
encourage them to develop ideas.
I: Do you sometimes use practical activities?
T: I often use tangible objects. Pupils learn mathematics through experience if they learn
the subject with tangible objects. Pupils are more likely to be able to keep the learning
content in long-term memory when they learn it through experience than when they
memorise the formula. Pupils can remember the experience itself. They may forget the
formula easily, but they are less likely to forget the experience.
I: Do you use computers in mathematics classes?
T: I would like to use computers in mathematics classes because children are probably
interested in learning mathematics by using computers. But the computers at my school
were acquired long ago. This means that the new software cannot be adjusted for the
computers. Anyway, I think, computer software programmes which help pupils with
learning mathematics autonomously have not been developed yet.
I: How do you use textbooks in mathematics classes?
T: I normally don’t use textbooks. I don’t agree with the view that teachers should teach
the contents written in the textbooks in order. I think that the textbook is just one of the
teaching resources. Therefore, 1 try to give my pupils questions which develop their
mathematical ideas.