The terms development or developmentally appropriate are frequently used, but finding good definitions is difficult. A dictionary defines develop as growing and becoming more mature or advanced. We see physical development in the young child. We know … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Development
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Dr. Cotter on Technology
People had been seeking simpler ways to perform calculations for centuries. Engineers, until the 1960s, used slide rules, a hand-operated mechanical calculator. It is one of the simplest analog computers which could perform multiplication, division, … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Technology
Dr. Cotter on RightStart and Montessori
Most people have heard of Montessori, but often they are not sure what it’s all about. The word Montessori refers both to a person and a method of education. Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was an Italian physician and educator. She is also the … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on RightStart and Montessori
Dr. Cotter on Flashcards
Flash cards are not a good way to drill the facts. Many adults, because they could not respond fast enough to flash cards or time tests as a child, became convinced that they have no math “ability.” These people are the ones with math anxiety – … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Flashcards
Dr. Cotter on Teaching Math
I’d like to take some time to discuss the science and art of teaching math. I call it a science because much research has been done into how children learn in general and especially math. I call it an art because each child is different, requiring … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Teaching Math
Dr. Cotter on Math Anxiety
Math anxiety can be thought of as a learned fear of numbers or anything to do with math. It results in feelings of tension and fear at the sight of numbers or math symbols, causing poor performance in math, especially on tests. Sadly, in the U.S., … [Read more...] about Dr. Cotter on Math Anxiety
