Contributions from: David Goodman.
Abstract
I first realised the potential value of audio tapes to complement mathematical learning/teaching, when working in a special school (1972-82). Then I returned to mainstream teaching and my roles included individual support in various schools. I established Southwark Visual Impairment Service and a tape production unit in 1990.
I am basing my action and participatory, doctoral research on audio production and its use, in Australia, Canada, USA and UK. My attempt to help children and people who work with them to circumvent their difficulties in mathematics, at present through tapes, is proving complex. Results indicate the barriers that still exist to innovative approaches and sometimes provide reasons, to explain people's actions and resistance to change, even in mainstream schools/classes claiming to practice equity and participation.
My Millennium Commission, funded, project C.H.A.M.P.E. (Community Helped Audio Mathematics for Participation and Equity) is extending my research. It aims to transfer skills to classrooms, where there will be a practical response to children's rights to equality. A major feature is collaborative working.
Questions remain e.g. 'To what extent can the experience of participants benefit others in different contexts?', 'How can the quality of production/use of audio-mathematical materials be improved?'
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