Technology and apps can help Year 10 students learn how to combine like terms, but they also have some important downsides that can make learning harder.
Dependence on Apps: Some students might rely too much on apps to do the work for them. Instead of really understanding how to combine terms, they might just put the equations into a calculator and take whatever answer it gives them. This means they might miss out on learning the basic ideas.
Wrong Answers: Sometimes, apps can give incorrect feedback or not point out mistakes in thinking. This can confuse students. For example, if a student is asked to simplify , they might not realize how important it is to find like terms, which can lead to misunderstandings.
Less Interaction: Using apps can also make students less engaged. When they spend time on their devices, they might miss out on important conversations and chances to solve problems with their classmates and teachers.
To address these problems, teachers should encourage a balanced use of technology. They can promote apps that explain each step, helping students to learn better. It’s also important to remind students about the limits of these tools. Schools can mix technology with traditional teaching methods, using both in lessons to help students understand algebra well. The aim should be to use technology as a helpful tool, not as a way to avoid doing the work.
Technology and apps can help Year 10 students learn how to combine like terms, but they also have some important downsides that can make learning harder.
Dependence on Apps: Some students might rely too much on apps to do the work for them. Instead of really understanding how to combine terms, they might just put the equations into a calculator and take whatever answer it gives them. This means they might miss out on learning the basic ideas.
Wrong Answers: Sometimes, apps can give incorrect feedback or not point out mistakes in thinking. This can confuse students. For example, if a student is asked to simplify , they might not realize how important it is to find like terms, which can lead to misunderstandings.
Less Interaction: Using apps can also make students less engaged. When they spend time on their devices, they might miss out on important conversations and chances to solve problems with their classmates and teachers.
To address these problems, teachers should encourage a balanced use of technology. They can promote apps that explain each step, helping students to learn better. It’s also important to remind students about the limits of these tools. Schools can mix technology with traditional teaching methods, using both in lessons to help students understand algebra well. The aim should be to use technology as a helpful tool, not as a way to avoid doing the work.