How I Teach

I am a "constructivist" teacher because I am a "constructivist" learner. I always needed to know why something worked. If I didn't understand, chances are I would soon forget how to do it. Memorizing is a temporary ineffective solution when the true goal is learning. It might get me through a spelling test but it is no way to learn math. Tricks and over reliance on memorization is my main critique of traditional math education. You might see quick gains but those gains are temporary and not gains that can be built upon.

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When you instead construct your understanding from previous knowledge that new understanding is lasting. It also is easily transferable to other topics. Math is beautifully setup to allow for this construction. It is also far more enjoyable to learn and teach in this way.

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I also naturally look for applications to what I'm learning or teaching. Being able to apply new information helps with authentic incentives. Students want to know why they are learning something for a good reason. "When am I ever going to use this?"  is a valid question.