Dr Laura Tuohilampi

"This is a fun task, Why do my students switch off?"

Most teachers have never been told that there are specific features that can catch students interest. Additionally, even more is needed to maintain that interest. Student focus can start to dissipate if there is no richness to the task, such as chances to make your own choices.

Tasks that both catch and hold students interest exist, but are rare. How can a teacher find one if not even knowing what to look for?

Teaching and learning maths applies to everyone. We pour massive amounts of money on teachers’ salaries, textbooks, teacher education, school facilities… and what is the take-away?

There is a national concern about the declines of Australian students’ performance and engagement in mathematics and the intransigence of teaching practices that must change if there are going to be improvements. At the moment, students develop an aversion towards the subject; their mathematical self-confidence is low, and the national reports show that students simply switch off as soon as they are given the opportunity. This results in increasing shortages of mathematically skilled people to drive Australian competitiveness and innovation, and limited prospects for individuals concerned.

How to fix this? Ask me!