Jounal # 2

Speaking Math Using Chat in the Multicultural Math Classroom
By Janet Graham and Ted Hodgson

Speaking Math Using Chat in the Multicultural Math Classroom, is an article that discusses how online chat discussions are beneficial for many students. This chat room forces students to use mathematical vocabulary and talk about math in general. Osbourne High School was the school that the authors chose to do their study on because they have incorporated online discussions in two of their math classes. From their own experience, they like what the results have been from implementing this into their math classes.
They focus their online discussion on math vocabulary and concepts so that they are fluent in what it means and how to use it. They have found this to be especially effective with students who do not have the best English skills or are not as privileged as others may be. The reason why they feel that electronic communication to be effective is because it allows these children that are non-native speakers to take time to plan out a well thought of answer without feeling pressure in class. It also gives them the opportunity to look at how other students use vocabulary and they can apply to their own answer. Working on computers to chat with peers is also a good thing for non-native students because then they will not be judged for the way the look, but for the answer that they put down. Many students are not quite secure with the person that they are, which as a result, makes them uncomfortable talking in class. Having the opportunity to chat takes the edge off of things and allows students the freedom to learn in an environment where they are not judged so much.
Another reason why electronic communication is great to use is not only can the children get more acquainted with the computer, but they can also incorporate different subjects at the same time. While chatting online about certain subjects the students can also chat about whatever else they are learning in class.
I am all for these electronic chats as long as they are supervised. I feel that this is a great way for students to learn how to communicate by using technology. As we all know technology is forever advancing and we need to make sure that the children are getting the knowledge on how to familiarize their self with it.

Question 1
What happens to the students who are second language learners that become dependent on hiding behind a computer to communicate?

While, I think that it is important for teachers to keep up on teaching their children to stay up to date with technology, I also feel that it is important for the teachers not to forget the basic skills that a child needs to have. I feel that being able to teach the students how to use computers is an advantage and that teachers should definitely realize that the kids need to be able to perform the communication skills needed to become successful.

Question 2
How does web discussions help the non-native speakers in school?

This type of web discussion helps non-native speakers because it gives them a chance to take their time to answer something without feeling pressure. They also have the opportunity to read what their peers are writing to trigger some ideas of their own.