1. My second project focused on how to approximate the square root of imperfect numbers. This built on prior knowledge of finding squares of whole numbers and square roots of perfect numbers. Students used this prior knowledge combined with how to plot numbers on number lines using decimals to complete a set of steps which would allow them to approximate a square root to one decimal place. This procedure lent itself well to this project because it has a clearly defined set of steps to achieve the desired answer and included both prior knowledge and new skills.
2. I think I could definitely have been more punctual on this assignment. The end of the semester got away from me with some personal issues and I had a hard time keeping up. It had nothing to do with the schedule or structure of the project - I actually thought it was spaced out and organized really well.
3. Completing both projects this semester really made me think about the difference in teacher concepts vs. procedures. I have taught for several years but never really thought about it that way before. I can say that the concept project, for me, was more difficult. I don't know if that is because I have a very procedural mind (being a math teacher and all) or if concepts are just more abstract to think about. As far as what went well or didn't in this course - I thought the assignments were really well aligned with the course description. I enjoyed using the blog to post discussions instead of the traditional discussion board in blackboard. I thought the syllabus and assignments were confusing at times (the syllabus repeatedly referred to the final project as a group project) but Dr. White was incredible with helping clear up confusion and clarify assignments for me. Overall, it was a positive experience this semester.
