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How Equitable Math Practices Help Students of Color with Conceputal Understanding
India White • May 01, 2023
How Equitable Math Practices Help Students of Color with Conceptual Understanding
How Equitable Math Practices Helps Students of Color with Conceptual Understanding
Dr. India White
Mathematics is a subject that is often perceived as difficult and intimidating by many students, especially those from marginalized communities. According to Chap Gpt, Students of color have historically faced systemic barriers in accessing quality math education. However, equitable math practices can help to bridge this gap and support students of diverse backgrounds in their conceptual understanding in the math classroom. This has become an area of focus, given that the White-Black population
gap of students has narrowed by 32 points from 1992 to 2017. Seeing the population of studnets is now made up of predominantly students of color, teachers are tasked with helping these students with understanding math better than before.
Here are some strategies for helping diverse learners with conceptual understanding in their math class through equitable practices: 1) Strive for inclusive learning environments, 2) Use real-world examples and culturally relevant contexts, 3) Promote collaborative learning, and 4) using multiple forms of assessment to eliminate bias and strengthen students’ skillset during assessments.
Equitable Math Practices Strive for Inclusive Learning Environments
Equitable math practices are rooted in foundational principles of social justice with a goal to create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students. These practices recognize and address the various inequities that exist in math education, including the lack of representation of diverse learners in advanced level math courses, lack of diverse representation in teachers, and a lack of culturally responsive teaching methods.
How Equitable Math Practices Support Students of Color
One of the primary ways that equitable math practices support students of color is by emphasizing the importance of conceptual understanding over rote memorization. Rather than students being assigned math problems in efforts to formulas and procedures, through conceptual understanding and metacognition, students are encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of the underlying concepts and principles of math. This approach helps to build a strong foundation of mathematical knowledge that can be applied to a wide range of problems and situations.
Equitable Math Practices Use Real-World Examples to Connect Students through Culture
In their article on “Making the Connections between Culture and Mathematics , Northwestern University speaks about how equitable math practices also prioritize the use of real-world examples and culturally relevant contexts in math instruction.
By connecting math concepts to students' lived experiences and cultural backgrounds, teachers can help to make math more engaging and meaningful for students of color. This approach can also help to counteract the stereotype that math is a subject that is only relevant to certain groups of people.
Equitable Math Practices Help with Collaborative Learning
Another important aspect of equitable math practices is the use of collaborative learning strategies. By working in groups and engaging in peer-to-peer learning, students can develop a deeper understanding of math concepts and build their problem-solving skills. This approach also helps to create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment, where students feel valued and respected for their contributions.
Equitable Math Practices Strengthen Skills during Assessments
Equitable math practices also prioritize the use of multiple forms of assessment, including performance-based assessments and project-based learning.
These types of assessments allow students to demonstrate their understanding of math concepts in a variety of ways, rather than simply through traditional tests and quizzes. This approach can help to reduce the impact of cultural biases that can be found in assessment and produce a better reflection of students' mathematical abilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, equitable math practices are essential for supporting students of diverse populations in developing a deeper conceptual understanding of math. By prioritizing conceptual understanding during their learning experience, using real-world examples and culturally relevant contexts, promoting collaborative learning, and using multiple forms of assessment, teachers can create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students. By implementing these practices, we can help to ensure that all students have access to explore learning in ways that will build upon their ability to conceptual understand each topic at hand.
‼️So grateful for the opportunity to hear testimonials and reviews from a few rockstar educators about their takeaways and experiences from my Equitable math 🧮 practices session at MCTM in Minnesota this weekend🤩! It's inspiring to hear teachers who provide feedback and work to close the achievement gap. 🥰Let's continue learning from each other and making a difference in the lives of our students! #teacherappreciation #education #equitablemath #achievementgap #drindiawhite #teachers #tedx #equity Check out the session highlights here:
‼️Listen as a gritty Middle Eastern teacher explains how attending my Equity Keynote at the Math conference, helped her connect her experience as a BIPOC educator with her perspective on how to implement equitable practices for all students and relate to students of different cultures! #drindiawhite #tedx #equity #dei #math #education #teachers #students #bipoc #savvas #nctm #ncsm #bwxme #nabse #habse #uf
I urge you to take a moment to listen to Dr. India White's enlightening TEDx talk, "The Power of Grit," where she delves into what drives grit in the lives of leaders, teachers, and students every day. In this captivating presentation, Dr. White offers invaluable insights into the transformative potential of grit—the unwavering determination and resilience that propel individuals toward their goals, even in the face of adversity. As educators and leaders, we play a pivotal role in instilling and nurturing grit among our students and colleagues. Dr. White's talk serves as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we cultivate grit within ourselves and those we influence. I encourage you to watch the TEDx talk for a deeper understanding of how grit can drive success in our classrooms, workplaces, and lives.
I am beyond grateful and honored to have the opportunity to speak at UF's Alumni Gainesville reception and share the powerful message of grit with the new graduates from the University of Florida. As leaders, we have a unique platform and responsibility to inspire and empower the next generation as they embark on their journey beyond the university walls. Grit is more than just a buzzword; it is the unwavering determination and resilience that propel individuals toward their goals, even in the face of adversity. It's about facing challenges head-on, embracing failures as opportunities for growth, and never giving up on our dreams. Today, as we gather to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable graduates, let us remind them of the power they hold within themselves. Let us encourage them to cultivate grit in all aspects of their lives, knowing that with perseverance and determination, they can overcome any obstacle and achieve their wildest dreams. As leaders, let us lead by example, showing gratitude for the opportunities we've been given and inspiring others to do the same. Let us use our voices to uplift and encourage those around us, knowing that together, we can create a brighter and more resilient future for all. Congratulations to the graduates of the University of Florida! May your journey be filled with grit, determination, and endless possibilities.
I am beyond grateful and honored to have the opportunity to speak at UF's Young Alumni reception and share the powerful message of grit with the new graduates from the University of Florida. As leaders, we have a unique platform and responsibility to inspire and empower the next generation as they embark on their journey beyond the university walls. Grit is more than just a buzzword; it is the unwavering determination and resilience that propel individuals toward their goals, even in the face of adversity. It's about facing challenges head-on, embracing failures as opportunities for growth, and never giving up on our dreams. Today, as we gather to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable graduates, let us remind them of the power they hold within themselves. Let us encourage them to cultivate grit in all aspects of their lives, knowing that with perseverance and determination, they can overcome any obstacle and achieve their wildest dreams. As leaders, let us lead by example, showing gratitude for the opportunities we've been given and inspiring others to do the same. Let us use our voices to uplift and encourage those around us, knowing that together, we can create a brighter and more resilient future for all. Congratulations to the graduates of the University of Florida! May your journey be filled with grit, determination, and endless possibilities.
Join us on the Grit and Equity Talks Podcast with Dr. India White, where we will discuss spaced vs. mass practice for teachers! Visit www.india-white.com for more information #drindiawhite #grit #equity
🥳As the opening keynote at the WMC Annual conference, I had the opportunity to discuss equitable math practices with teachers. I am grateful to have gifted 30 copies of the Equity Counts book collaboration after my session! 🤩Thanks to Savvas Learning Company for making this happen🥰. The best is yet to come for Wisconsin teachers and students! #EquitableMath #Education #EquityCounts #savvas #drindiawhite #tedx #equity #WisconsinTeachers #StudentSuccess #wismath24 #nctm #ncsm… See more — at On Green Lake in Wisconsin.
Hanging out wit the tribe! I had the honor of being the opening keynote speaker at @WisMathCouncil 🤩 We applied the concept of grit in their classroom! Thanks to @SavvasLearning!! #drindiawhite #math #grit #student #teachers @wismathcouncil #wismath24 #SAVVAS #nctm #ncsm #bwxme
This morning, I had the honor of being the opening keynote speaker at WMC's Annual Math Conference. 🤩The conference was a great success, with attendees discussing the importance of grit in both teachers and students. I’m excited to see Wisconsin teachers apply the concept of grit in their classrooms and help their students develop this crucial! Thanks to Savvas Learning Company for the support and encouragement!! #drindiawhite #math #grit #student #teachers @wismathcouncil #wismath24 #SAVVAS #nctm #ncsm #bwxme
‼️Attention all Wisconsin teachers! Are you ready to enhance your teaching skills and help your students develop their grit😃? If so, don't miss out on the opportunity to purchase my Grit Workbook at a discounted price! 🤗I have 50 copies available at WMC, so come and grab your copy this week🤩! #wismath2024 #nctm #ncsm #drindiawhite #grit #education #students #teachers #wismath2024 #nctm #ncsm #drindiawhite #grit #education #students #teachers