IES Holds a Session on 'Breaking the Chains: Unveiling the Mysteries of Math Anxiety'
IES Holds a Session on 'Breaking the Chains: Unveiling the Mysteries of Math Anxiety'
In a concerted effort to address the pervasive issue of Math anxiety, the Department of Mathematics at Indian Education School, Bhavans Kuwait, hosted a groundbreaking seminar titled 'Overcoming Math Anxiety' on November 27 and 28, 2023. The event was spearheaded by Mr N K Ramachandran Menon, Chairman of Bhavans Middle East and executed by the Math faculty of the institution, including Mrs. Shiny Varghese, Mr. Vivek Chandran, Mr. Venu Madhav, and Mr. Ramanarayana G, under the guidance of Principal Mr. T. Premkumar. Their primary objective was to tackle the widespread impact of Math anxiety on academic and career pursuits.
Teachers opened the seminar with a thoughtful exploration of the omnipresence of math anxiety and its profound implications. The session provided a platform for students in Grades 9 and 10 to actively engage in discussions about the challenges associated with math anxiety. Principal, Mr T Premkumar, stressed the paramount importance of comprehending the fundamentals thoroughly and the relevance of peer learning. He shared his personal experience of having to learn mathematical physics during his graduation, when he and his fellow students received assistance from a classmate in order to master the topics. He also emphasized that it is vital to make connections between what you learn, as math is crucial in life for all of us. His understanding of trigonometry attracted pupils' interest. Ms Meenakshi Nayyar, the Vice Principal of the institution encouraged the students to perform better by applying the insights and approaches discussed in the session to improve their math skills and overcome any anxiety or challenges they may be facing in the subject.
The focal point of the conversations was the psychological underpinnings of math anxiety, its origins, and effective coping mechanisms. The objective was clear: to boost participants' confidence and reshape their negative perceptions of mathematics through practical advice and cognitive restructuring activities. The seminar employed an interactive approach, leveraging the expertise of the math teachers and utilizing a captivating PowerPoint presentation. The presentation not only emphasized interactive learning methodologies but also showcased real-world applications to demonstrate innovative and engaging approaches to make mathematics more accessible and enjoyable.
The program successfully alleviated math fear by integrating practical principles with visually appealing presentations, fostering a positive relationship with mathematics. The overarching goal was to empower participants by addressing the root causes of math-related anxiety and creating a friendly learning environment. Throughout the event, math teachers emphasized the importance of changing negative attitudes towards arithmetic, encouraging participants to adopt a growth mindset. The interactive teaching style of the educators instilled confidence in students to tackle mathematical challenges through passionate arguments and myth-busting.
The success of the session underscored the dedication of math teachers to fostering a culture that values mathematics and transforms students' attitudes. Post-event feedback revealed that participants left with increased confidence in facing their mathematical anxieties and embarking on a journey into the world of numbers. The seminar did not conclude with just inspiration; it laid the foundation for practical implementation. Participants were encouraged to regularly practice and apply the tools they acquired, solidifying their newfound confidence in mathematics.
In conclusion, the "Overcoming Math Anxiety" seminar at IES stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a positive and empowering relationship with mathematics for students. The event not only identified the roots of math anxiety but provided tangible solutions to instil confidence and enthusiasm for the subject.
