Paper or Pixels? Using Both for Maximum Math Learning

The digital age is in full force in schools across the country as students are more frequently completing and turning in assignments online rather than with paper and pencil.  Despite the nature of math being a show your work subject, it is not an exception to the online shift currently taking place.  But don’t bring out the matches yet!  Where there is a math problem, there will always be a need for paper.

Here is our take on finding the right balance between completing math assignments on paper and online that maximizes growth for students.

Vary the Format of Assignments and Tests

Try to avoid exclusively using one format (either all paper or all online), for assignments and tests.  If you can, try to assign students an equal amount of paper and online assignments.  A good practice is to assign 3-5 practice problems on paper for students to complete in class after learning a new skill under your supervision.  It is crucial for them to put pencil to paper when solving those first problems with your guidance so that they, and you, can see what they are doing right and wrong.  Once they can complete a problem independently, then provide repeated practice problems in an online format.   I also recommend mixing in an online chapter test once every quarter, but require that students organize problems and show their work on paper that also gets turned in.  For everyone out there cringing at this suggestion, remember that most district benchmark assessments and all state assessments are online.  If students become comfortable completing and submitting tests online throughout the year, they will be better prepared for these big tests. 

Teach Kids Best Practices for Solving Math Problems Online

Even though kids today are growing up with more access to technology than ever, they still need guidance when it comes to how to best go about solving math problems that are presented in an online format.  So many times, they assume that since the problems or assignments are submitted online that they can just try to solve them all in their heads or get out a scratch piece of paper and scribble away with no organization.  However, most students that approach online assignments this way end up making countless mistakes.  Don’t just assume that your students will be perfect math angels and take their time solving each problem on paper neatly and in an organized manner.  Before assigning any problems to them, take time to model for them how to navigate and use whatever online platform or program you are using as well as your expectations for their work.  More complex, multi-step problems should still be copied down and solved neatly on paper with the problems and answers clearly labeled.

Provide Flexibility for Individual Needs

Recognize that not all students have the same preferences or learning styles when it comes to paper vs. online assignments. Some may excel with pen and paper, while others find digital tools more comfortable. Encourage students to voice their preferences and provide flexibility for those who may benefit from a combination of both formats. This can create a more inclusive learning environment where each student can choose the method that suits them best.

In this digital age of education, the shift toward online math assignments is undeniable, but it doesn’t mean the end of paper and pencil in math classrooms. Instead, embrace the coexistence of paper and pixels in math education to maximize student growth and success. By varying the format of assignments and tests, teaching students best practices for solving problems online, and providing flexibility for individual needs, educators can ensure that math education remains effective and adaptable to the changing times.