Student Comments

• When I don't understand a problem or idea or when it doesn't make sense to me, this is what I do:

1. "I try to figure out the problem on my own, but if I can't seem to get it I come to class and pay attention to the way that others understand the problem."
2. "I listen to what others have to say in class and then attempt the problem on my own."
3. "If there are terms I am unsure of I look them up. If I still do not understand I ask a classmate for help. If I still don't understand I see the teacher."
4. "Pay attention to how others worked the problem or listen to how they understand the idea. I then try to work it out myself to make sure I can recreate what I've seen/heard."
5. "I wait until someone else asks the question. I don't want everyone to look at me like I am stupid. Although, I have gotten better at asking questions I don't understand."
6. "I try to rework it a different way or wait till class and listen to other's answers and ways of completing it."
7. "I usually ask someone next to me, or if I am feeling brave I will ask questions when other people are still having problems and not just me."
8. "I listen to others so that maybe they will spark an idea in me that will cause it to make sense."
9. "I ask other students how they did the homework or just listen to everyone else's idea."

These comments are from the Math 3403--Geometric Structures for Elementary Teachers class taught by John Wolfe at Oklahoma State University, Summer 2003.