The Association Between the Use of Accelerated Math and Students Math Achievement


Book Description

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between time spent on a computer managed integrated learning system entitled Accelerated Math and traditional mathematics instruction on achievement as measured by standardized achievement tests of elementary school students. The variables of ability level, special education, grade, socioeconomic status, gender, classroom teacher, school attended, and degree of implementation were also considered. The population consisted of 542 students who were sixth, seventh, and eighth graders during the 2003-2004 school year and took the TerraNova each year. Data were gathered that covered the three-year period beginning in 2001 and ending in 2004. A t test for independent samples, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were used to identify the relationship between variables. The researchers investigation of the relationship between Accelerated Math use and mathematics achievement might assist educators in planning for use of technology as a supplement to traditional instruction. The information gathered from this research might be beneficial to other school systems seeking information on the relationship between a computermanaged integrated learning system and math achievement. The findings in this study were mixed. The use of Accelerated Math was associated with no effects and negative effects depending on the degree of implementation. The findings indicated that there were measurable differences in the performance of students who received Accelerated Math compared to students who did not receive Accelerated Math. Students who did not receive Accelerated Math had higher overall scores than students participating in the intervention. The study indicated that gender, special education, and ability groups did not have a significant interaction with the intervention (participation in Accelerated Math). The research revealed that there was a socioeconomic status interaction intervention with prof.




Mathematics Interventions: A Correlational Study of the Relationship Between Level of Implementation of the Accelerated Math Program and Student Achievement


Book Description

Current legislation, such as No Child Left Behind (2001) or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (2004), has increased accountability for schools for the education of all students. These laws require schools to provide interventions for struggling learners, as part of the Response to Intervention process (IDEA, 2004). Accelerated Math (AM), published by Renaissance Learning, is a scientifically based program designed to supplement quality instruction as part of the RtI process. This correlational study examined ex post facto data using pre and posttest scores on the STAR Math Test in relation to amount of classroom time dedicated to AM instruction This computer-based program was examined as part of the existing school day, in public school systems in the rural Arkansas area. The results of the study showed a strong correlation between the amount of time and student performance and a decrease in the achievement gap when AM is implemented. Some concerns were noted about lower student gains in older grades and lack of participation in younger grades. Several reasons were explored for this issue, including teacher evaluation, math anxiety, and stereotypes. Findings from the study may help streamline instructional strategies and processes, and improve teacher effectiveness and evaluation procedures for mathematics instruction of all students.




Open Middle Math


Book Description

This book is an amazing resource for teachers who are struggling to help students develop both procedural fluency and conceptual understanding.. --Dr. Margaret (Peg) Smith, co-author of5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive Mathematical Discussions Robert Kaplinsky, the co-creator of Open Middle math problems, brings hisnew class of tasks designed to stimulate deeper thinking and lively discussion among middle and high school students in Open Middle Math: Problems That Unlock Student Thinking, Grades 6-12. The problems are characterized by a closed beginning,- meaning all students start with the same initial problem, and a closed end,- meaning there is only one correct or optimal answer. The key is that the middle is open- in the sense that there are multiple ways to approach and ultimately solve the problem. These tasks have proven enormously popular with teachers looking to assess and deepen student understanding, build student stamina, and energize their classrooms. Professional Learning Resource for Teachers: Open Middle Math is an indispensable resource for educators interested in teaching student-centered mathematics in middle and high schools consistent with the national and state standards. Sample Problems at Each Grade: The book demonstrates the Open Middle concept with sample problems ranging from dividing fractions at 6th grade to algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Teaching Tips for Student-Centered Math Classrooms: Kaplinsky shares guidance on choosing problems, designing your own math problems, and teaching for multiple purposes, including formative assessment, identifying misconceptions, procedural fluency, and conceptual understanding. Adaptable and Accessible Math: The tasks can be solved using various strategies at different levels of sophistication, which means all students can access the problems and participate in the conversation. Open Middle Math will help math teachers transform the 6th -12th grade classroom into an environment focused on problem solving, student dialogue, and critical thinking.













Accelerated Math


Book Description










Women and Mathematics


Book Description

First published in 1985. In the mid-seventies, there was growing concern that early decisions not to study mathematics in high school might be limiting the occupational options available to women. As part of a larger program on career development, the Career Awareness Division of the Education and Work Group, then one of the major organizational units of the National Institute of Education (NIE), initiated a special research grants program on women and mathematics. Research information that would sort out the competing explanations for women’s lower rate of participation seemed a useful contribution to debates about possible remedial actions. Should there be, for example, widespread development and implementation of programs designed to reduce mathematics anxiety? This volume represents the culmination of a research program with many contributions.