Newswise — Most people believe that mathematics is numbers, symbols and notations. Dr. Jonathan Brendefur, professor of mathematics education at Boise State University, explains that mathematics is also about spatial reasoning – the ability to visually manipulate stimuli, to break apart and put together 2-D and 3-D shapes, to take these ideas and twist and turn them or to not be confused when an object’s orientation changes. This ability is one of the best predictors of later success in mathematics, and can be learned through a variety of different methods and practices. It also helps people develop fluency with operations in arithmetic and strengthens measurement concepts.
While a professor at Boise State, Brendefur also is the founder of the Initiative for Developing Mathematical Thinking and coaches teachers on new ways to teach math and developing mathematical thinking.
Learn more about Brendefur and a number of other Boise State University faculty experts at http://beyondtheblue.boisestate.edu/, Boise State’s award-winning website of podcast presentations on a wide range of relevant topics.
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