A person’s intense feeling to avoid the study of math or hinder learning ability in math is described as Math Anxiety. This condition causes a person to dislike math because of several factors. One factor can be because of weakness in numbers and computation which led to lack of confidence in the subject and low self esteem in all aspects concerning math.
Math Anxiety can be overcome by a person mainly by gaining appreciation of the subject. Correlating the study of mathematics with its practical application in daily life can start the management of this type of anxiety. Once a person with this problem becomes exposed with the uses of math in the events of his daily life, giving the right motivation follows. Motivating a person to study math is the challenging part because this process determines if the person is willing to learn the subject. Motivation can be in the form of encouragement, explanation of the many ways in which one can benefit from this subject and the advantages of learning it. A guidance counselor or peer counselor may be the one to provide the motivation.
Once the student finally gained the right motivation to learn math, fun activities can be initiated to build confidence and introduce a fun way of learning math. This will enable a gradual transition making the student appreciate math as a fun subject rather than a serious and boring one. Inter-active activities can further encourage participation.
From these starting points, teaching methods can be advanced gradually in order for a person to overcome math anxiety. Enabling the student to participate actively and perform his own techniques can assist learning and can further boost his own confidence. Constant recognition enhances a person’s ability to continue learning mathematics. From here, anxiety can slowly be overcome and appreciation of mathematics can be gained.
Helping a person overcome Math Anxiety is a great way of promoting the study of mathematics and in contributing towards the development of a person’s skills and abilities. Appreciation of the subject can lead to effective learning and enhancement of other skills such as analytical skills. This can further aid in the total development of a person’s intellect thereby maximizing his full learning potential. Application of math is an integral part of a person’s daily life and his ability to function properly and efficiently in his chosen career. Therefore, a person with Math Anxiety should recognize his problem and seek for help and support. Willingness and motivation are the keys towards overcoming this problem. Once this problem is addressed properly, realization of the many ways in which one can benefit from mathematics can be guaranteed.