Hazen's Classes related to Math Education

 
  • sketchpadGeometers' Sketchpad - I have been instructing and assisting teachers with this dynamic, interactive geometry software since 1990. Many teachers begin with a 3-hour awareness session, but this class is usually 15-45 hours depending on the participants' needs and the lessons they develop.

 

  • Astronomy and Mathematics - Examine the many opportunities to use mathematics inspired by mankind’s interest in the heavens. This introductory session will utilize materials from the Internet, NCTM’s Mission Mathematics, Alfred University, Project Star, and will include telescopic observations as a bonus.
  • Fractal Mathematics & Chaos Theory - hands-on activities for MS & HS teachers/students. Although these specific topics are not on the NYS tests, the explorations cover math topics which are, and... they are engagingly and inherently beautful, thought provoking, and give students a glimpse of what some of the current mathematicians are doing within these fields.

    The course explorations include paper folding fractals, chaotic magnetic penduliums, video feedback, small-group and full-class games, and computer explorations. (The 10 second Flash animation on this page shows zooming into the Mandelbrot Set to a magnification of 10^9. (1 billion!)

Geometer's Sketchpad

TARGET AUDIENCE: Classroom teachers who are willing to learn about and/or integrate this technology.
NUMBER OF HOURS: Awareness session is only 3; The actual class is 15 or more hours

DATE(S): by arrangement
TIME: by arrangement
LOCATION: where needed (computer lab with Internet)

DESCRIPTION: We will use the Geometers' Sketchpad (GSP) software and the Internet in this class to answer the basic questions:

1.) What is Interactive Geometry?
2.) What are some advantages and disadvantages?
3.) Where on the web can I go to see and/or experiment with lessons created for GSP?
4.) Where can I see samples of teacher use and results?
5.) How can this change/improve my teaching?
6.) How much time is involved?
7.) Next steps?

Projected Learner Outcomes: (What participants will be able to apply in their job upon the completion of the workshop):

  • know how to use the features of the GSP Software
  • be able to decide appropriate use of this software to meet classroom objectives
  • be able to locate appropriate resources for this technology on the internet
  • Importing and exporting files for use
  • Building a lesson
  • Other topics pertinent to specific levels such as Algebra and Geometry

ASSESSMENT (How I will assess using a follow-up session, demonstration, final product or some other method to assess participant learning): A short survey will be distributed, followed by an informal discussion of responses.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED: computers with internet access, GSP software. Participants should bring a USB memory stick for saving work.

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS (IF APPROPRIATE):depends on the capacity of the computer facility; not more than 20.

PREREQUISITES: must know how to use a computer and the internet

MATERIALS FEES: none