CHAPTER 1
The Problem and its Background
Introduction
Mathematics is a universal subject, so much a part of life that anyone who is participating member of the society must know. Students’ mathematical achievement, however, is ultimately determined and limited by the opportunities they have to learn. Mathematics is not restricted to a selected group of students. “All students must learn to think mathematically, and they must think mathematically to learn” (Kilpatrick, Swafford and Findell 2001).learning and mastery of mathematics education enables men not only to compete in the modern world but also to make intelligent and well reasoned decision in their daily lives.
The mathematics Study Panel (2003) emphasized the importance of the mathematics. The panel declared that it is essential that students develop mathematics proficiency. “The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB 2001)” directed that research about effective practices be a guide in changing the way mathematics is taught so that high standards are met leading to an improvement in achievement.
One of the major purposes of mathematics instructions is to ensure and develop among children the appreciation for mathematics. Through appreciation, they will realize how mathematics can be used to solve their own problems. The secondary schools have the responsibility to strengthen the mathematical activity of the students in preparation for the higher mathematics learning.
The 1987 Constitution, Article XIV, Section 1 mandates that “the state shall protect the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps accessible to all”.
It also emphasized that the system of education should be relevant to the needs of the people and society.
Mathematics is always a part of the curriculum since it plays a great part in the education system. In the said subject, skills and understanding of mathematics help the person to play his role as a student and as well as a citizen, a productive citizen of the nation. The idea of interdisciplinary approach is a good concept on the part of the curriculum.
In order to attain the quality education, educators need to improve the teaching-learning system. Teachers should try different techniques and approaches suited to the needs of the individual learner. Mathematics teacher must therefore gear their goals to the encouragement of the use of accurate and precise device which will lead the learner to a better understanding of the lessoned to be learned. They should also teach the students in a way that they are prepared for life outside of the school, not just like in the classroom which may bear a little resemblance to what goes outside of it.
One of the electronic devices is the video. It is defined as thin plastic usually polyester covered with a surface layer or metallic particles that display graphic-rich images with music and minimum text in a cathode ray or television to convey information.
Video have many application for instruction. They demonstrate, explain, record and replay data. They promote individualized learning to the students’ responses. Correct answers can be acknowledged promptly by showing them the correct answer. A students’ response to a question determine what will be presented next. The new tools also allow teachers to have time to analyze the thinking process of the students, to free them from just reacting in terms of right and wrong. Students never have to miss a lesson since the video can be stored and played back at the convenient time.
Often, when teachers have to miss to class, the easiest thing to do is to leave a video for the students to watch. It seems harmless and easy enough that even a “sub” can handle it.
Visual culture is increasingly playing a larger role in our students’ upbringing and frame of reference. This can be used to our advantage. With an extensive collections and variety of videos, documentaries, and multimedia available, visual media can be an effective instructional tool for today’s teachers.
