Math is one of the most important subjects for any student and knowing the best ways to teach it is essential. Many around the world look to Asian regions for guidance when it comes to teaching math as they have achieved impressive success in the subject.
This article will explore how Asians teach math and the unique approaches they have for doing so, along with exploring any advantages to learning math this way.
1. Traditional Methods Over Modern Technology
Across Asia, many locales still celebrate traditional teaching approaches over the prevalence of modern technology. This means that classrooms tend to be teacher-focused instead of student-focused and the ‘teacher-knows-best’ approach is still widely used.
This is especially true in countries such as South Korea, Japan and China, which still rely on older teaching models as a result of also having strong cultural roots in many Asian nations. As a result, the use of calculators and computers is still lower than in other countries and methods such as memorization remain popular. For example, many Asian teachers will rely on students reciting passages, equations and formulas from memory, rather than teaching students the underlying theory behind them.
This memorization-based approach still has its advantages though, as it can improve concentration and develop good study habits in students from a young age.
2. Focus on Mastery
A major difference in the Asian approach to math teaching compared to other countries is their focus on mastering the material they are teaching, rather than simply covering a variety of topics and concepts. With this approach, teachers in these countries take the gradual step-by-step approach to teaching math. This means students slowly build up their knowledge to master more complex topics rather than focusing on a range of topics at once.
In Asian countries, there also tends to be much more of an emphasis on homework than in other countries. Because of this, students generally get a lot more practice problems than elsewhere, which allows them to better internalize the concepts they are learning and understand them at a much deeper level.
3. Emphasis on Problem Solving
Another way in which the Asian approach to teaching math differs is in their focus on problem solving. Many Asian teachers view maths as a problem-solving discipline as opposed to a theoretical one, and view it as crucial for students to be able to understand how problems can be solved. To help with this, teachers will often try to engage their students rather than simply lecturing or giving instructions.
This often involves interactive approaches such as having students work on problems together and explore creative ways to solve them. One of the most popular ways Asian teachers help their students is by encouraging them to use the ‘trial and error’ approach when tackling hard problems.
This encourages students to think critically and helps them learn to assess their work objectively. As a result, students are more likely to develop an analytical approach to maths which helps them develop problem-solving skills and understand underlying concepts.
4. Learning by Examples
In many Asian countries, teachers tend to focus on learning through examples. This entails providing students with simple example problems and talking through their solutions.
Teachers will often talk through the thought processes behind problem solving and provide visual cues to help students understand the concepts better. Many times these ‘example problems’ have been carefully crafted to provide pupils with the foundational knowledge needed to tackle more challenging problems. At a more advanced level, Asian teachers will also often use past examples to help students develop skills and understanding.
This can range from using questions from past exams, to having students solve similar problems to those faced in real life. In many countries, teachers are also pushing for more emphasis on ‘real world’ maths, as this helps teach students the skills needed to apply their math knowledge in the workplace.
5. Strong Parent Involvement
Many Asian countries also have strong parent involvement when it comes to teaching maths. Parents often push their children to learn math at an early age and are very focused on helping them succeed.
This presents a strong opportunity for teachers to help students better understand concepts by involving parents in learning activities and engaging them in the learning process. In some cases, parents may even take part in teaching activities themselves. This can be a great way for students to better internalize concepts and for parents to develop meaningful relationships with teachers and their children.
The presence of very involved parents can also help create a competitive atmosphere which can help motivate students to achieve higher results.
6. Focus on the Fundamentals
Many Asian teachers tend to focus on teaching the fundamental concepts and processes of mathematics, rather than spending a lot of time teaching abstract theories or formulas. This entails teaching the basics such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication, rather than delving into more complex areas such as calculus or trigonometry. This teaching method can be highly beneficial for students, as it helps them develop a strong foundation in the basics.
It also ensures they can better understand the underlying concepts and be able to apply them to more complex problems. In many Asian countries, such as South Korea, teachers also use what’s known as ‘edutainment’ to help teach students effectively.
This entails combining elements of entertainment with education to make learning more enjoyable and improve students’ understanding.
7. Use of Competitions
Mathematical competitions are an important part of the Asian approach to teaching maths. There are numerous competitions in the region which aim to develop students’ problem-solving skills, such as the prestigious Asian Mathematical Olympiad (AMO). These competitions can represent an invaluable experience for students, as taking part in them puts a significant amount of pressure on their analytical skills and encourages them to strive for excellence.
Moreover, taking part in such competitions also gives students the opportunity to meet and interact with top mathematicians and professionals in the field. This helps them gain a better perspective of the possibilities that mathematics can provide and, at the same time, helps them appreciate the beauty and value of the subject.
8. Effective Use of Resources
Unlike in other countries, Asian teachers tend to make effective use of all the resources at their disposal. Although textbooks and notes remain important, teachers also embrace ‘software aids’ such as computers and calculators to help students better visualize and understand concepts.
Many teachers in the region also employ mobile applications and online resources to help students practice what they’ve learned. This, combined with providing students with distance learning opportunities and virtual classes, helps make the process of learning math much more convenient.
9. Acceptance of Failure
In many Asian countries, failure is seen as an opportunity to learn and grow. Asian teachers are usually able to see mistakes as learning opportunities and are able to provide constructive feedback.
This helps create an atmosphere in which students can take risks without feeling discouraged and helps them gain confidence in their abilities. In particular, Asian teachers tend to focus on “risk-free” failure; that is, allowing students to make mistakes without having any negative consequences. With this approach, teachers are able to instill valuable lessons in their students and help them recognize that mistakes can sometimes be a necessary part of the learning process.
10. Patient and Compassionate
As mentioned in the previous point, Asian teachers tend to be very patient and understanding when teaching math. This is beneficial for students as it allows them to feel more confident in themselves and their abilities. By offering encouragement rather than criticism, these teachers help students develop their self-esteem and motivate them to give their best.
Moreover, Asian teachers are usually very compassionate with their students. In times of difficulty, they will often provide additional support and help to ensure students never give up despite their struggles.
This level of understanding and encouragement helps create an atmosphere in which students can thrive.
11. High Academic Standards
Asian countries also tend to have very high academic standards when it comes to teaching maths. As a result, teachers usually try to push their students to excel and reach ever-higher levels of understanding. This approach helps to ensure that students are constantly challenged and exposed to more difficult concepts as they progress in their learning.
In addition, many Asian teachers also try to instill in their students the importance of doing good in maths. Many references can be found in literature, art and pop culture in the region which emphasize the value of math, as well as a strong academic work ethic.
12. Holistic Approach to Education
One of the main hallmarks of the Asian approach to teaching maths is their holistic approach. This is evidenced in their emphasis on developing the whole student – not just in the classroom but also in their extracurricular activities.
This approach often helps students develop better study habits and gain a greater appreciation of their work. Furthermore, many teachers in Asian countries also focus on teaching values and ethical principles alongside the maths they are teaching. This helps students to better understand the importance of honesty and hard work, as well as the implications of their decisions.
13. Emphasis on Non-Cognitive Skills
Another feature of Asian maths teaching is the emphasis on non-cognitive skills. While the academic aspect of maths remains important, teachers also tend to focus on the emotional aspects of the subject and the consequences of making certain decisions. For instance, many teachers will try to foster self-discipline in their students and help them develop their ability to work independently.
At the same time, many also help students develop better interpersonal and communication skills by encouraging group work and problem-solving. Conclusion:The Asian approach to teaching maths is one which has many unique features which differentiate it from approaches in other countries.
From the focus on traditional methods to the emphasis on problem-solving, Asian maths teaching provides an effective way to help students learn and master key concepts. Moreover, many of the principles of Asian maths teaching such as the acceptance of failure and the emphasis on the non-cognitive skills can be invaluable lessons for students both in and outside the classroom.