Life Skills Earned from Junior College Mathematics
Mathematics in junior college is not just about getting the correct answer to an equation. Students are trained to think like mathematicians and explain why they believe the method and answer they have arrived at is correct. Real life situations are also used to explain mathematical concepts. Singapore’s education system, specifically math, is recognized and even being adopted by many countries because the curriculum is designed to give students the experience to articulate problems and find solutions themselves. You can try with some jc math tuition in Singapore.
Ability to analyze situations and come up with solutions
Math students in junior college are given the freedom to read and understand situations and work out possible solutions that will lead to the right answer. Teachers endeavor to give students real life situations they will likely encounter at some point in life where they will be expected to come up with solutions that will be beneficial in the short or long run.
When students get to college, they will be expected to make choices. Some of those choices may negatively impact their education and lives. They are expected to analyze every situation before deciding on a path they deem right for them. In 2013, the curriculum was further revamped, and emphasis was put on mathematics process skills. Some of the skills students are expected to gain include the ability to make connections and applications.
Apply concepts in real life situations
Singapore mathematics aims to arm students with life skills that are expected to be of worth to students long after they have completed their education. For example, students are expected to understand opportunity cost and how to apply it. In the past, math was about formulas and facts. Today, math lessons go further in helping students understand how math can help them even when they no longer have examinations to prepare for. This is the essence of the curriculum as it is right now and why it is being adopted worldwide.
It helps students to avoid shortcuts
Mathematics as it is right now, students are encouraged to understand processes instead of cramming the outcome. Junior college students are expected to explain why they have chosen to solve a math problem in a particular way. They are taught to look at equations from all angles before they decide the best process to use to come up with the right answer.
The reason students are encouraged to follow the entire process is to make sure they do not make unnecessary mistakes. When taught right, students are able to use the same principle in their everyday life, especially when faced with complicated situations.
Ability to predict outcomes of transparent situations
Math students are usually given equations to test their ability to discern if the equation is right or wrong. The ability to tell that a given math problem is impossible to solve because of an error in how it was presented will help students determine situations which are worth their time later in life.
Knowing that no matter how much time they spend trying to find a solution for a given problem, they will not be able to solve it is a great life lesson. The math students will be able to assess their situations and determine if it is worth pursuing it one way or another. Since some math equations have multiple ways of getting an answer, this also helps them to seek alternative ways to find a solution a challenge they are facing in life.
It is essential for teachers to enlighten students on the value of math in their lives. Students who proceed with math in junior college have an opportunity to look at their studies critically and find ways to use what they learn in class and use it in their daily lives.