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Jo Boaler
How to Learn Math is a free self-paced class for learners of all levels of mathematics. It combines really important information on the brain and learning with new evidence on the best ways to approach and learn math effectively. Many people have had negative experiences with math, and end up disliking math or failing. This class will give learners of math the information they need to become powerful math learners, it will correct any misconceptions they have about what math is, and it will teach them about their own potential to succeed and the strategies needed to approach math effectively. If you have had past negative experiences with math this will help change your relationship to one that is positive and powerful. The course will feature Jo and a team of undergraduates, as well as videos of math in action - in dance, juggling, snowflakes, soccer and many other applications. It is designed with a pedagogy of active engagement. The course is planned to remain available indefinitely.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/5890jf/how
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Strategies needed to approach math effectively
- Information about your own potential to succeed in math
- Correct any misconceptions about what math is
- Strategies needed to approach math effectively
- Information about your own potential to succeed in math
- Correct any misconceptions about what math is
Syllabus
Part 1: The Brain and Math Learning.
1. Knocking Down the Myths About Math.
Everyone can learn math well. There is no such thing as a “math person”. This session give stunning new evidence on brain growth, and consider what it means for math learners.
Read more
Syllabus
Part 1: The Brain and Math Learning.
1. Knocking Down the Myths About Math.
Everyone can learn math well. There is no such thing as a “math person”. This session give stunning new evidence on brain growth, and consider what it means for math learners.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches about potential, misconceptions, and effectiveness about math, which provides learners with a strong foundation in math learning
Examines the brain and math learning which is relevant to students taking the course to understand learning math
Provides strategies needed to approach math effectively which will aid learners in completing math more efficiently
Develops number flexibility, mathematical reasoning, and connections which are core math skills for students to learn
Teaches number patterns and representations that are highly relevant to everyday life
The course is self-paced, which helps learners learn the material at their own pace
Available indefinitely, indicating that the course material will remain current and up-to-date
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Mindset and strategies for learning math
According to students, 'How to Learn Math: For Students' is a highly transformative course that primarily excels at fostering a positive mindset towards mathematics. Learners frequently highlight its effectiveness in helping them overcome math anxiety and understand that everyone can learn math well. Many appreciate the focus on growth mindset and viewing mistakes as learning opportunities, which they found revolutionary. While not a course on specific mathematical topics, its strategies for success are widely praised for making math feel accessible and engaging. Some learners note that if you already possess a strong growth mindset, parts might feel like a refresher or be less challenging.
Emphasizes *how* to learn math, not specific math content.
"Don't expect to learn specific math subjects, but rather effective learning methods."
"It's about the psychology and strategies of math learning, not direct math instruction."
"I appreciated the focus on meta-learning, though some might seek content."
Beneficial for a wide range of students and learners.
"This course is truly for anyone, regardless of their current math level or past experiences."
"It helped me, a parent returning to math, as much as it helped my high schooler."
"I recommend it to anyone who thinks they are 'not a math person' – it will change your mind!"
Jo Boaler's teaching style is clear, inspiring, and motivating.
"Jo Boaler is an incredible instructor; her enthusiasm is contagious and motivating."
"The professor explains concepts clearly and with great passion, making it easy to follow."
"Her insights into brain science and learning really resonated with me, making complex ideas simple."
Provides actionable techniques for approaching math problems.
"I gained valuable strategies for approaching challenging math problems effectively."
"The sessions on number flexibility and making connections truly enhanced my understanding."
"This course gave me the tools to think differently about how I study and learn math."
Helps shift perspective on math learning for students.
"This course completely changed my perspective on math. I used to dread it, now I feel capable."
"I finally understand that mistakes are part of learning and not a sign of failure."
"The focus on growth mindset was revolutionary for me, making math feel achievable for anyone."
Some parts may feel slow or repetitive for advanced learners.
"For me, some of the initial concepts felt a bit repetitive as I was already familiar with a growth mindset."
"I found the pace slow in certain modules, especially if you're not a complete beginner."
"The course is very thorough, which is great for beginners, but might drag for those seeking more depth."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in How to Learn Math: For Students with these
activities:
Read 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success'
Show steps
Develop a growth mindset by reading 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success' to understand the importance of believing in your abilities and embracing challenges.
View
Mindset - Updated Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a copy of 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success'.
-
Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and insights.
-
Reflect on how the book's principles can help you develop a growth mindset in your approach to math.
Watch Math Antics Videos
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of math concepts by watching engaging and clear video explanations on Math Antics.
Show steps
-
Visit the Math Antics YouTube channel or website.
-
Browse the video library and select topics that align with your course material.
-
Watch the videos and take notes on key concepts and examples.
Explore Math is Fun Website
Show steps
Supplement your learning with interactive math activities and explanations by exploring the Math is Fun website.
Show steps
-
Visit the Math is Fun website.
-
Browse the different math topics and activities.
-
Engage with interactive games, puzzles, and simulations to reinforce your understanding.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Math Problems on Khan Academy
Show steps
Challenge yourself with math problems on Khan Academy to reinforce your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Show steps
-
Create a Khan Academy account or sign in to your existing account.
-
Navigate to the Math section and select a skill or topic area.
-
Practice solving problems and review your answers to identify areas for improvement.
Complete Practice Worksheets
Show steps
巩固你的数学技能 by completing practice worksheets to reinforce your understanding of concepts and improve your problem-solving abilities.
Show steps
-
Search online for math worksheets that align with your course topics.
-
Download or print the worksheets.
-
Work through the problems, checking your answers to identify areas for improvement.
Join Study Groups or Math Clubs
Show steps
Enhance your learning and problem-solving skills by joining study groups or math clubs where you can collaborate with peers and engage in discussions.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
-
Inquire about existing study groups or math clubs at your school, university, or community center.
-
Attend meetings and actively participate in discussions.
-
Work together with peers on problem-solving and concept reinforcement.
-
Share your own insights and perspectives to contribute to the group's learning.
Create Math Concept Maps
Show steps
Improve your comprehension and retention of math concepts by creating visual concept maps that connect and organize key ideas.
Show steps
-
Identify a math concept or topic that you want to map.
-
Use a tool like MindMeister or Miro to create a visual mind map.
-
Add nodes for key concepts and draw connections between them.
-
Include examples, explanations, and relationships to enhance your understanding.
Read 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success'
Show steps
Develop a growth mindset by reading 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success' to understand the importance of believing in your abilities and embracing challenges.
View
Mindset - Updated Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a copy of 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success'.
- Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and insights.
- Reflect on how the book's principles can help you develop a growth mindset in your approach to math.
Watch Math Antics Videos
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of math concepts by watching engaging and clear video explanations on Math Antics.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the Math Antics YouTube channel or website.
- Browse the video library and select topics that align with your course material.
- Watch the videos and take notes on key concepts and examples.
Explore Math is Fun Website
Show steps
Supplement your learning with interactive math activities and explanations by exploring the Math is Fun website.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the Math is Fun website.
- Browse the different math topics and activities.
- Engage with interactive games, puzzles, and simulations to reinforce your understanding.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve Math Problems on Khan Academy
Show steps
Challenge yourself with math problems on Khan Academy to reinforce your mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a Khan Academy account or sign in to your existing account.
- Navigate to the Math section and select a skill or topic area.
- Practice solving problems and review your answers to identify areas for improvement.
Complete Practice Worksheets
Show steps
巩固你的数学技能 by completing practice worksheets to reinforce your understanding of concepts and improve your problem-solving abilities.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search online for math worksheets that align with your course topics.
- Download or print the worksheets.
- Work through the problems, checking your answers to identify areas for improvement.
Join Study Groups or Math Clubs
Show steps
Enhance your learning and problem-solving skills by joining study groups or math clubs where you can collaborate with peers and engage in discussions.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Inquire about existing study groups or math clubs at your school, university, or community center.
- Attend meetings and actively participate in discussions.
- Work together with peers on problem-solving and concept reinforcement.
- Share your own insights and perspectives to contribute to the group's learning.
Create Math Concept Maps
Show steps
Improve your comprehension and retention of math concepts by creating visual concept maps that connect and organize key ideas.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a math concept or topic that you want to map.
- Use a tool like MindMeister or Miro to create a visual mind map.
- Add nodes for key concepts and draw connections between them.
- Include examples, explanations, and relationships to enhance your understanding.
Career center
Learners who complete How to Learn Math: For Students will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
As a Quantitative Analyst, you will use your math skills to develop and implement mathematical models for financial analysis and trading strategies. How to Learn Math: For Students is an excellent course for aspiring Quantitative Analysts as it provides a solid foundation in math concepts and strategies. The course's emphasis on correcting misconceptions about math and developing a growth mindset can help you overcome challenges and excel in this demanding field.
Mathematician
Mathematician
A Mathematician uses math to solve complex problems across various industries, including academia, finance, and technology. This course, How to Learn Math: For Students, can help you develop the essential math skills and strategies needed to pursue a career as a Mathematician. By shaping your mindset and providing effective learning techniques, this course can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in this field.
Statistician
Statistician
A Statistician collects, analyzes, and interprets data to draw meaningful conclusions and make informed decisions. How to Learn Math: For Students is a valuable resource for aspiring Statisticians as it provides a comprehensive introduction to math concepts, strategies, and mindset. The course's focus on understanding the big ideas in math and overcoming misconceptions can help you develop a strong foundation for success in this field.
Actuary
Actuary
An Actuary uses math on a daily basis to assess risk and uncertainty. They build mathematical models to help insurance companies make accurate predictions about future losses, and then develop financial strategies to mitigate these risks. A deep understanding of math is key to career success as an Actuary. This course, How to Learn Math: For Students, can help you develop the math skills and strategies needed to excel in the Actuary field.
Teacher
Teacher
As a Teacher, you will play a key role in shaping the mathematical understanding of future generations. The course, How to Learn Math: For Students, is highly relevant to this role as it provides effective teaching strategies and encourages a positive mindset towards learning math. By learning how to break down math concepts and motivate students, you can empower them to overcome their own misconceptions about math and achieve academic success.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
An Operations Research Analyst is a problem-solver who uses mathematical and analytical methods to improve efficiency and decision-making within organizations. The course, How to Learn Math: For Students, is highly relevant to this role as it provides a strong foundation in math concepts, strategies, and mindset. By learning effective approaches to problem-solving and overcoming misconceptions about math, you can enhance your ability to succeed as an Operations Research Analyst.
Actuarial Analyst
Actuarial Analyst
An Actuarial Analyst uses math and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty, particularly in the insurance industry. How to Learn Math: For Students can provide you with the mathematical skills and strategies needed to excel in this field. The course's focus on number flexibility, mathematical reasoning, and connections can help you develop a strong foundation in the quantitative aspects of actuarial work.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
As a Financial Analyst, you will use math extensively to build financial models, analyze financial data, and advise clients on sound financial decisions. How to Learn Math: For Students can provide you with the necessary tools and techniques to succeed in this role. Its focus on correcting misconceptions about math and developing a growth mindset can give you the confidence and skills needed to tackle the mathematical challenges in this field.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst plays a crucial role in the modern job market by providing valuable insights to their employers. They collect, analyze, and interpret data in order to develop recommendations for strategic decision-making. This course, How to Learn Math: For Students, would provide a solid foundation in math skills and concepts, which are essential for success as a Data Analyst. The course's focus on strategies for success and correcting misconceptions about math can help build a strong foundation of knowledge.
Operations Analyst
Operations Analyst
An Operations Analyst uses math and analytical techniques to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations. How to Learn Math: For Students can provide you with the mathematical skills and strategies needed to excel in this field. The course's focus on problem-solving and decision-making can help you develop the skills needed to analyze and improve business processes.
Economist
Economist
An Economist uses math to analyze economic trends, forecast future economic outcomes, and develop policies to improve economic performance. How to Learn Math: For Students can be beneficial for aspiring Economists as it provides a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and problem-solving techniques. The course's focus on correcting misconceptions about math and developing a growth mindset can help you overcome challenges and make informed economic decisions.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist uses math, statistics, and programming to extract valuable insights from data. How to Learn Math: For Students can be a helpful resource for aspiring Data Scientists as it provides a solid foundation in mathematical concepts and problem-solving techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding the big ideas in math and overcoming misconceptions can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this field.
Financial Planner
Financial Planner
A Financial Planner helps individuals and families manage their finances and plan for their financial future. How to Learn Math: For Students can be beneficial for aspiring Financial Planners as it provides a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and financial principles. The course's focus on correcting misconceptions about math and developing a growth mindset can help you gain confidence in handling financial matters and making sound financial decisions.
Market Researcher
Market Researcher
A Market Researcher uses math and statistical techniques to collect, analyze, and interpret data about consumer behavior and market trends. How to Learn Math: For Students can be beneficial for aspiring Market Researchers as it provides a solid foundation in mathematical concepts and data analysis techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding the big ideas in math and overcoming misconceptions can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this field.
Software Developer
Software Developer
A Software Developer relies heavily on math skills to design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course, How to Learn Math: For Students, can provide you with the necessary math foundation and strategies to succeed in this field. By correcting misconceptions about math and developing a growth mindset, you can enhance your programming abilities and build robust software solutions.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5890jf/how
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
How to Learn Math: For Students.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science of learning, including principles that can be applied to math education. It covers topics such as the importance of active learning, feedback, and motivation.
Is one of the oldest and most influential mathematical works in history. It contains a collection of theorems and proofs that form the foundation of geometry. It valuable resource for those who want to learn about the history of mathematics and the foundations of geometry.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of mathematics, from the ancient Greeks to the present day. It valuable resource for those who want to learn about the development of mathematical thought and the lives of the mathematicians who made it possible.
Save
Provides evidence-based strategies for effective learning, which can be applied to math learning as well. It covers topics such as spaced repetition, interleaving, and retrieval practice.
Save
Explores the cognitive processes involved in number sense, which fundamental aspect of mathematical ability. It provides insights into how the brain represents and manipulates numbers.
Provides a philosophical exploration of the nature of mathematics. It discusses topics such as the foundations of mathematics, the role of proof, and the beauty of mathematics. It good choice for those who want to think more deeply about the nature of mathematics.
Provides a step-by-step guide to solving mathematical problems. It covers a wide range of problem-solving strategies, from basic techniques to advanced methods.
Save
Provides an introduction to some of the most important theorems in mathematics, including the Pythagorean theorem, the Fermat's Last Theorem, and the Gödel's incompleteness theorems. It good choice for those who want to learn more about the history and development of mathematics.
Save
Challenges the common belief that some people are naturally good at math while others are not. It argues that math ability is not fixed and can be developed with the right mindset and strategies.
Save
Explores the concept of a growth mindset, which is the belief that intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. This aligns well with the course's emphasis on changing one's mindset from fixed to growth to improve math learning.
Explores the cultural aspects of mathematics, showing how mathematics has been used throughout history to solve problems, make predictions, and create art and music. It good choice for those who want to learn about the broader impact of mathematics on society.
Save
Provides a broad overview of mathematics, from basic concepts to advanced topics. It is written in a engaging and accessible style, making it a good choice for those who want to explore math beyond the classroom.
Provides a gentle introduction to mathematics for those who have little or no background in the subject. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic arithmetic to calculus.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/5890jf/how
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Rating
3.5
Effort
1 to 3 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Stanford University
Instructor
Jo Boaler
Language
English
Transcript
English
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