Tackling Anxiety in Primary Mathematics Teachers by Wicks Karen;Menter Ian;

Author:Wicks, Karen;Menter, Ian;
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Critical Publishing
Published: 2021-01-21T00:00:00+00:00

Introduction

Chapter 4 examined the findings of primary research in helping to identify a way forward to increase confidence and reduce anxiety for adults learning mathematics, specifically those working within primary education. The findings showed that where adults had become more confident, their motivations for overcoming fear and anxiety were often rooted within personal reasons to develop their understanding and their motivation to learn (Knowles, Holton III and Swanson, 2015). However, to develop their confidence and understanding, the role of the teacher was identified as a key influence, and the chapter ended with a framework of seven teaching strategies to support teacher educators in addressing learner needs. Alongside these it was acknowledged that the teacher needs to have certain personal traits, specifically good subject knowledge and nurturing characteristics. This chapter identifies why these traits are considered supportive by those who are anxious and how they might be developed in the educators who work with them.

Whilst it might seem obvious that a teacher of mathematics should have a good understanding of mathematics themselves, you should consider some of the relevant theories related to why this is a necessity (not just true of mathematics!). In particular, I explore how Mason, Burton and Stacey (2010) identify the link between confidence, competence and being able to handle an emotional state in learning mathematics. However, discussions in Chapter 2, aligned with the research findings in Chapter 4, suggest it is not enough for a teacher to just have good subject knowledge but that having an enthusiastic and empathetic approach can aid the development of anxious learners. Key traits are identified and discussed, alongside some self-reflection exercises to evaluate these within your own teaching.

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