Boeing Workshop Helps Teachers Integrate Math, Technology

Twenty-five LAUSD mathematics teachers last week convened at a two-day training training session to share innovative instructional practices in mathematics and create new technology-based materials for high school math students.

Joel Tepper, LAEP Director of +PLUS+, and Janet Miller, +PLUS+ Academic Director, led the teacher-leaders in workshops, known as Boeing Advanced Technology Training for Teachers (T³), to prepare them to conduct similar sessions at their school sites and in conferences and institutes.

The workshop series is made possible by a $250,000 grant from The Boeing Company to prepare Los Angeles teachers to use technology effectively to support instruction in mathematics and science. The grant funds an initiative that provides advanced technology training and communications for teachers. Teachers will receive instruction in use of the Internet, software, and other computer technologies to conduct research, enrich instructional material and collaborate with colleagues worldwide.

"Technology is a powerful tool in mathematics," Miller said. "When used appropriately, technology may help students develop the skills, knowledge, and insight necessary to meet rigorous content standards in mathematics and make a successful transition to the world beyond school."

During the workshop, Nelia Gabriel, mathematics instructor at Huntington Park High School, led participants through exercises developed to teach students concepts. Using technologies such as Geometer's Sketchpad, graphing calculators, and online multimedia curricula, teachers demonstrated how these technologies encourage student learning through investigation, conjecture, and problem solving.

Tepper and Miller invited teachers to go to the LAEP Web site, www.laep.org/plus/technology/math/, to view and download sample activities with associated math standards and planning guidelines. A session for science teachers is scheduled in August.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for these teachers to learn how integrating state-of-the-art technology with classroom instruction can help improve their teaching and student learning," said Helen Hsieh, LAEP's director of technology.

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