Modern Mathematics Applications: Solutions to Challenges Encountered in Teaching Spiral Progression in Mathematics 7

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the modern math applications that can address the challenges encountered by 21 seasoned teachers in teaching Spiral Progression in Mathematics 7. Basic qualitative research was used in this study. The interview was done during the one-week seminar training in the application of different math applications to the classroom setting. The teacher participants mentioned that they found difficulty in making power-point presentations in basic constructions in Geometry. They said that set and union set are their difficulties since they find complications in looking for figures, and illustrations that needed to present in the class. They added that it’s hard for them to use modern technologies on sets because of the excessive board work. As to Patterns and Algebra, all 21 teacher participants mentioned that the topics that hard to be applied with modern technologies were irrational numbers, solving problems in linear equations, operation on polynomials and inequalities, and fundamental operations on algebraic expressions. In addition, the teachers mentioned that they find difficulty integrating technologies on topics in Algebra especially word problems. The master teacher participants advised the seasoned teachers to use platforms such as Desmos and Khan Academy to address their challenges. These are web-based graphing calculators that include basic construction in Geometry. In Patterns and Algebra, the master teachers instructed the seasoned teachers to venture on using my script calculator, lecture notes, and photomath. According to them, these math apps can aid the teachers and students in solving linear equations, inequations, etc.