Kumon Math is an innovative and proven method of teaching mathematics to students of all ages and abilities. As a form of student-focused and self-paced math education, it has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its effectiveness in helping students build their numeracy skills. But how exactly is Kumon Math different?
In this article, we will explore the key features that make it distinct from conventional teaching methods, and why it is so successful in helping students improve their math skills.
What is Kumon Math?
Kumon Math is an educational program developed in Japan in the 1950s. It is a unique approach to teaching mathematics, which focuses on helping children build a deep understanding of concepts and develop the confidence and resilience to solve complex maths problems. Kumon Math involves diagnosing individual learning differences and providing a structured program of learning activities tailored to the student.
The activities are divided into four grades, spanning elementary to advanced math. Each activity is designed to be repetitive, helping students to master the underlying math concepts, and increase their problem-solving ability.
What Makes Kumon Math Different?
Kumon Math is different from other forms of mathematics instruction in several distinct ways. Firstly, it uses a series of small steps to help students build their understanding and confidence, rather than focusing on one large concept which they may struggle to grasp. Additionally, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning by working through the material both independently and in their own time.
The emphasis is on developing students’ numerical fluency and problem-solving ability, rather than relying on rote memorization. Furthermore, Kumon Math introduces and builds on concepts in a cumulative, step-by-step manner.
Each step builds on and reinforces the previous steps rather than introducing completely new concepts. This enables students to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Finally, the program encourages students to keep practicing and improving, rather than simply completing a set amount of math problems.
How Does it Help Students?
Kumon Math has proven to be an effective tool for improving students’ mathematics ability. It encourages students to focus on understanding and developing their problem-solving ability, rather than just memorizing facts or completing activities.
Furthermore, the step-by-step structure ensures that learning is continuous and comprehensive. As a result, students gain a much deeper understanding of the concepts, allowing them to apply their knowledge to more complex situations. As well as increasing mathematics confidence, the Kumon Math instruction model also helps to develop principles that can be applied in other areas of life.
These include problem-solving skills, discipline, resilience and independence, all of which are valuable for students of any age.
What Are the Practices Involved?
Kumon Math involves a variety of practices which are designed to develop students’ math skills. These include the use of diagnostic tests, repetition and reinforcement, all designed to ensure that students grasp the underlying math concepts and build their numerical fluency.
The diagnostic tests are designed to assess the students’ existing math skills. These tests enable students to identify any gaps in their understanding, so they can focus on developing these areas. Repetition and reinforcement are also integral to the Kumon Math method.
This involves repeatedly completing the same task, allowing students to understand the underlying concepts more easily. After correctly completing an activity, the student moves to the next step up, and works on an assignment that is slightly more difficult. This encourages the student to gradually build their understanding and confidence.
Finally, responsibility and autonomy play a big part in Kumon Math. The student takes responsibility for their own learning, and is encouraged to identify and problem solve on their own.
How is Kumon Math Assessed?
The assessment process for Kumon Math is designed to be rigorous and comprehensive. At the beginning of the program, the student undertakes a diagnostic test to assess their level of understanding.
This helps to identify areas they need to focus on. The assessment then takes place throughout the course of the program. Each activity is graded based on the accuracy of the answers and the complexity of the problem.
This system encourages students to progress through the material, as they strive to reach higher levels of accuracy and understanding. When students have finished the program, they are assessed one more time to measure their overall performance.
The assessment grades them on their accuracy, speed, problem complexity and overall skill level. This helps to ensure that the student is ready to move onto the next level with confidence.
What Can Students Learn from Kumon Math?
Kumon Math provides students with the opportunity to not only develop their maths understanding and problem-solving ability, but also to gain a range of important skills for future success. Firstly, Kumon Math helps to grow students’ confidence. The independent studying and problem-solving skills they develop can help them in various areas of life, such as school, work, and self-improvement.
It also encourages initiative, perseverance and commitment. Learning how to work through complex problems independently and with determination can translate into other areas of life by helping the student to believe in themselves and take responsibility for their progress and development.
Finally, Kumon Math helps to develop analytical skills. This allows students to think critically and analyse information to make informed decisions. As they work through the materials, they learn to break down tasks into smaller, more manageable stages, and identify the most efficient way to solve a problem.
What Are the Advantages of Kumon Math?
Kumon Math has a range of advantages compared to conventional mathematics instruction. Firstly, the step-by-step approach helps students to build their understanding gradually, and gain confidence in their abilities. The activities are tailored to the individual student, allowing them to focus on their particular weak points and rapidly increase their understanding.
The program also encourages independent study, problem-solving and responsibility. Through exploring the materials, students learn to work through complex problems, evaluate their understanding and make informed decisions about their next steps.
Kumon Math is also an affordable and convenient way for students to improve their math skills. Online activities and materials are available, allowing students to study in their own time and at their own pace.
Are There Any Disadvantages to the Kumon Math Program?
Though Kumon Math is a highly beneficial program, there are some potential drawbacks that should be taken into account. Firstly, it can be a challenging program for some students.
Many find that the step-by-step structure and repetition of the activities require significant discipline, resilience and perseverance. Furthermore, the program may not be suitable for all students, particularly those with special needs or learning difficulties. As Kumon Math focuses on individual learning, it is important to consider whether the student has appropriate levels of motivation and discipline.
Finally, the cost of taking part in a Kumon Math program may be beyond the reach of some students. The self-paced and independent nature of the program can make it more expensive than taking a conventional maths class.
Conclusion
Kumon Math is an effective and popular learning program that encourages students to take responsibility for their own progress and cultivate their problem-solving skills. It is an innovative step-by-step approach to teaching mathematics, which is tailored to the individual student and focuses on building and understanding rather than rote memorization.
Though it can have a few drawbacks, including higher costs and difficulty for some students, Kumon Math is an excellent way for children and adults of all ages and abilities to develop their mathematical understanding, confidence and skills.