Since the pandemic, teachers are assigning more classwork and homework to be completed online. In my opinion, this is detrimental to a student’s ability to learn math. Learning is most efficient when the brain uses multiple modalities simultaneously (such as listening, writing, and speaking). When multiple modalities are engaged at the same time, the brain develops stronger neural networks which leads to better retention of the material. In addition, having to write down math problems and solve them on paper requires the student to practice focusing and learn the material in their own way. And, as making the material their own is the key to learning, this step is essential. The following Wall Street Journal article supports the claim that writing by hand leads to better learning.
Hotz, Robert Lee. “Can Handwriting Make You Smarter?” The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones & Company, 10 Aug. 2021, www.wsj.com/articles/can-handwriting-make-you-smarter-1459784659#.
The process of doing math homework online lacks the kinesthetic and tactile pencil to paper quality that is essential for optimally learning any subject, including math. The movement of the hand to solve math problems is a direct connection to the brain, unlike clicking a mouse, which is the same for every problem. For example, in Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, students must learn how to graph various types of functions. This involves drawing a graph, labeling the axes, determining the spacing of the graph, and then solving for the location of each point. However, if graphing homework is done online, students simply have to click on a dot with a mouse to select a graph from a displayed list of possible answers. This means the student never learns how to draw that graph on their own or process all the steps involved in solving such a problem. Consequently, students may struggle on a test which requires graphing with pencil and paper since online homework has never incentivized them to graph for themselves. During my work with students, I hear them complain that math homework is so much harder to do online, and that solving math problems online is about getting tasks done and clicking until the right answer comes up, rather than learning the material. I have also noticed that online homework encourages students to rarely write anything down. However, math requires calculations that cannot (or should not) be solved without writing. In these cases, often students just throw up their hands and say, “I don’t know,” as if solving the calculation on paper never occurred to them.
The tactile nature of a book is also beneficial for the kinesthetic aspect of learning, and less strain on a student’s eyes. Yet, schools have increasingly done away with books and require students to use a math textbook online. As a result, students must switch back and forth between screens, needlessly using brain energy (see blog on switch-tasking) that is needed to focus on math problems. An online textbook also results in confusion since students cannot simply flip a physical page to look back and forth; they must scroll or flip virtual pages which compete for space on their computer desktop. Math is confusing enough without adding more unnecessary difficulty.
Optimal learning must also be active. More of the brain is engaged if the student is actually involved in the physical world (paper, pencils, textbooks). Online homework is passive; the student watches and clicks a button on the screen. Active learning is more engaging, it develops executive functions in the brain, and results in students who are better able to focus. Consequently, I often tell my students to write the answer on paper even though they have to click on the correct answer online. When possible, I suggest that my students use an actual textbook, pencil, and paper. I also suggest parents purchase a used textbook if their student is not provided one in class. These little details make all the difference in learning.
