Math Circus is a Graphic Sideshow

Math Circus Act 4 was published in 2005 and is part of a continuing software series used in schools around the world. It is supposed to help children enjoy mathematics and develop their problem-solving skills. It includes ten levels of difficulty within twelve puzzles, ranging from very simple to very challenging. There are five basic levels for children in the early years of schooling, and then five advanced levels for those who are ready for more of a challenge. Many mathematical topics are covered including positive and negative numbers, addition, multiplication, sums involving money, 2- and 3-dimensional geometry, sorting by colour and shape, the physics of pendulums and trajectories, and programming sequences of movements. Teachers can control music and sound effects, decide which levels of which puzzles are available, and inspect or print details of students’ progress.

This sounds like a great educational tool but I feel it is lacking in entertaining and design features. The graphics are poor and the situations are not authentic for the general population. Perhaps some students have never even been to the circus, which will make it hard for them to make connections. However, it does seem to include some valuable features for the low cost of the package but at the expense of the visual component.

This program was reviewed by three educationists who found students to be engaged by the program even though the graphics are basic.

http://www.ttrb.ac.uk/viewArticle2.aspx?contentId=13307

Is it still technology if it doesn't work?

I am currently working at a school with limited working technological resources...let me paint the picture for you...most classrooms have a computer...and most classroom computers take about 10 minutes just to boot up...but if you are patient enough you will get a chance to experience slow response time...however there is a computer lab in the library...but it is shared with the entire school and must be signed out in advance...now if you want to run a presentation there is an audio cart with a laptop and LCD projector...but make sure you don't move any cords around or it might not work properly...i think you get the idea...this school needs a technological makeover...and luckily it is getting one next year!

Dear Blogger,

Hi it's me...katie~g. This is my first time blogging and so far it is going smoothly...I am looking forward to customizing you...looking foward to the good times ahead!

Sincerely,
Katie g