One of the greatest joys of being a math teacher is to see students dread  
and hate of math turn to joy for math. One student that comes to mind just  
recently graduated from a technical college. She shared with me that it took her  
9 years to consider coming back to school and facing math.  I was so  
fortunate to have her for a student and watch her fear of math melt away.   One way I 
address math phobia is through journal writing. Students are required  to 
respond to a math prompt, provide examples, make connections and lastly to  
reflect on their learning. It is in the reflections that the fear and struggles  are 
revealed. I journal back, giving them encouragement and offering  suggestions.
 
This particular student's journals showed her excitement in finally  
understanding math and seeing connections. She continues today to send me emails  
about math websites she has found or successes she has had since being in  
college.She was so proud to share that she got an A in technical physics and  
graduated with honors.
 
I truly believe we must develop a safe environment for math learners, one  in 
which they dare to take risks and not feel stupid in trying and one that  
offers support in their stuggles.
 
Pam Meader
President,  Adult Numeracy Network
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