MOVING FROM MEMORY TO MINDFULNESS IN MATHEMATICS TEACHING AND LEaRNING
Abstract: Learn how the brain processes new information, how this processing is affected by stress, and how a focus on memory tasks can trigger stress for many students. Explore several strategies for shifting student focus from memory recall to mindful problem solving. Theories and strategies shared will connect to Dr. Bachman's most recent collaborations with a licensed clinical social worker trained in trauma therapy. The presentation will also integrate research into student images of doing mathematics using the Draw Yourself Doing Mathematics drawing prompt.
This talk is appropriate for faculty, undergraduate students, and a more general audience.
Dr. Rachel Bachman is an associate professor of mathematics education at Weber State University where she teaches mathematics courses for developing elementary and secondary teachers. Her work at WSU focuses on developing effective strategies for teaching and learning mathematics, and her research interests include creating learning sequences beginning from activities and hands-on materials, helping struggling students succeed in mathematics, understanding student views about mathematics, and the use of physical movement to learn mathematics.