In the year 2003, I was invited by Principal Mrs. Nalini Pal , Secretary, of the neighboring Schools of Indore, which are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education, Delhi to guide help the Mathematics Teachers of the area to improve upon their ‘Teaching Methodology” so that they may make “Teaching Learning Process” a lively and a joyful activity in their class rooms.

While interacting with the learned teachers of Indore, one of the teachers asked,” Sir! Different Resource persons and Subject Experts suggest different teaching methods for various topics of Mathematics and we get confused to decide which technique is the best technique of teaching Mathematics? Kindly help us to sort out this problem.”

In a joyful mood I replied “Best technique of teaching Mathematics is – not to tech”

The participants laughed and thought that I am joking but to justify my statement, I further added” A good Mathematics Teacher should always provide an environment and opportunities to the learner to explore the facts and figures of Mathematics which may lead them to draw inferences from their interaction with their classmates and performing of the activities. Let them finally formulate the results and formulas. Motivate them to think mathematically and make them apply their acquired knowledge in dealing with their real life problems. Inculcate abstract thinking in them by making use of their imagination power.” For example, the learner may be asked to ‘Construct objects, figures and diagrams, and change their shape, while preserving the mathematical relationships and hence .can explore mathematical properties like that of a right angled triangle which was first established by the Great Greek Mathematician Pythagoras.

Or

Establish and verify the Algebraic formulas like (x+ y)² = x² + 2xy + y² , etc..

Provide extra-curricular Math and Physics Olympiad and Problem Solving Programs to gifted children Prepare students to take on the most rigorous math and science curriculum sequences and guide the students and their families in developing their math talent through enrichment and acceleration programmes and elite summer camps, etc. Further encourage them to participate in the National and State Math Competitions.

Teaching of mathematics be used as a mean to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills in the learner. Thinking skills are more important than memorizing mathematical facts. Therefore, chalk out the programs to integrate problem solving with mental mathematics, logical reasoning, communication, and organisational skills to develop life-long learning skills for at least the gifted children.

Try to provide an intellectually stimulating and fun environment to the learners to exploring mathematical concepts that may in an intellectually stimulating and fun environment that may emulate the practice of problem solving techniques to develop abstract reasoning. Good study habits always be rewarded and the brilliant minds be challenged. Try to be not only knowledgeable in mathematics but also master motivators who love to work with gifted children. Our goal should be to make children enjoy learning Mathematics.