Reflective Paper

MTH 157
June 17, 2012

Reflective Paper
This course has covered numerous topics like data analysis, probability, geometry, and measurements. Data analysis is a specific process that includes inspecting information, clearing up information, transforming the information, and modeling the resulting data while highlighting the information in the data. While modeling the data it is important to show support in the decisions that were made. Data analysis encompasses many different techniques across many different subjects like math, science, and business. Probability is not an exact science, but is instead based on the conclusions of what will most likely happen. To calculate probabilities it is important to look at the whole picture. Geometry is the study of shapes, their size, positioning, and type like two dimensional and three dimensional. Geometry is all around us but is often overlooked in a mathematical sense.
Each of the concepts learned in this course are relevant to the characteristics of a professional mathematics teacher. The climate of the classroom, assessments, reflections, instruction, engagement, relevance, and knowledge are all important. The climate of the classroom must be positively geared towards learning. Students should be able to be active participants alone and in groups. In order for this to be possible the teacher must be able to model literacy and numeracy with the appropriate strategies so that students can communicate effectively while analyzing the tasks at hand. Teachers should also be motivating, encouraging and nurturing in the classroom.
For both teachers and students to gather information and properly reflect on the concepts being learned there must be a systematic process set in place through instruction. Teachers should be able to use multiple ways to gather information and data about his or her students