ERIC Number: EJ748064
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006-Jun
Pages: 43
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0042-0972
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Challenges in Linguistically and Culturally Diverse Elementary Settings with Math Instruction Using Learning Technologies
Ganesh, Tirupalavanam G.; Middleton, James A.
Urban Review: Issues and Ideas in Public Education, v38 n2 p101-143 Jun 2006
This research effort reports the findings of an empirical study focusing on the ways in which technological tools are implemented specifically in mathematics education in a Title I school. The purpose was to identify the perspectives and actions of the school's mathematics specialist and the multi-graded (grades 2-3) classroom teacher as they attempted to deliver instruction with technology for both English Language Learners (ELL) and non-ELL students. Findings showed that a critical factor in access to mathematics education and technology for ELL students in a multi-graded 2-3 classroom in a Title I (K-5) school setting was "language." Although potentially powerful technologies--analog (concrete objects) and digital (software) were used, many ELL students could not access the content solely because of language difficulties. Teachers used the concrete objects as modeling tools, to reveal students' thinking, and for communication of foundational mathematics. Conversely, the software used served none of these functions because the available software did not do the kinds of things the manipulatives did, teachers' knowledge of exemplary software was insufficient, the school used an impoverished model of technology integration, and teachers were constrained by the school district's policies of English immersion for ELL students.
Descriptors: Cultural Differences, Elementary School Mathematics, Educational Technology, Multigraded Classes, Elementary School Teachers, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Computer Software, Technology Integration, Immersion Programs, Instructional Materials, Models, Manipulative Materials, Academic Achievement, Disadvantaged Schools, Educationally Disadvantaged, Minority Group Children, Mathematics Teachers, Teacher Attitudes
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A