The Carnegie Learning Math Series, the new research-based core and supplemental middle school curricula, are now available for preview via dynamic online demonstration problems, video walk-throughs, and a text sampling tool. An expansion of the company’s research-based high school math curricula, the Carnegie Learning Math Series is designed to provide individualized learning for math students in grades 6-8.
Carnegie Learning Math Series: Courses 1-3 is a blended program that includes Carnegie Learning® Math Textbooks and Carnegie Learning® MATHia software powered by Cognitive Tutor® software technology. The courses fully align to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. Elements throughout the Math Series focus on student motivation and engagement, developing a deep conceptual understanding of the mathematics, and providing embedded formative assessment. The MATHia software provides a personalized learning path for each student based upon his unique level of knowledge and cognitive skill. Real-world contexts are selected for the student based upon her interest areas such as sports/fitness, art/music, money/business, and the environment/nature.
“Research indicates that middle school students tend to view the school environment as out of their control and unresponsive to their interests,” said Dr. Steve Ritter, chief scientist of Carnegie learning, Inc. “As a result, they set unproductive learning goals focused on satisfying others or avoiding failure rather than on gaining personal satisfaction from academic achievement. In the Math Series, we’ve focused on using personalization and messaging to improve students’ approach to academic achievement.”
The Research Behind the Carnegie Learning Math Series, a white paper by Dr. Ritter, a cognitive scientist and company co-founder, discusses how the Carnegie Learning Math Series uses personalization to improve student motivation and learning. Continuous feedback, spontaneous awards, and ongoing formative assessment emphasize the internal rewards inherent to succeeding in a difficult task and achieving improved academic performance. A series of short Math Series Webinars are also available presenting the program in the context of several timely topics: Applying Research to Middle School Math Education; Exploring Mathematics Topic Progression; and Building Highly Motivating and Intelligent Software Technology for Middle School Math Students.
