Mathematics
As with language, mathematics instruction is individualized. Formal and informal assessments are used to determine a student's level of proficiency as well as his or her strengths or weaknesses. An instructional program is designed to remediate difficulties, be they in the realm of computation or concepts. The Haughton Learning Center programs serve as a cornerstone.
Instruction in a particular skill, of necessity, may by comprehensive. Frequently the techniques developed by Mahesh Sharma which use manipulatives such as Cuisenaire rods are employed to develop concepts before they are practiced to achieve accuracy and fluency.
In the Haughton Precision Teaching format, skills are classified hierarchically. Skills are taught and then practiced until they are fluent rather than just accurate because accuracy only infrequently predicts retention and transfer to more complex skills. Fluency, on the other hand, predicts retention and transfer into more complex repertoires and application in novel contexts. |
