Mathematical Education in the Opinion of the Students of Integrated Early-School Education - A Study Report

Mathematics is considered one of the most important school subjects. Despite that fact, assimilation of mathematical knowledge causes many students numerous problems. Studying mathematics does not only consist in acquiring skills that are essential in solving specific tasks. It is, above all, a process thanks to which the basic competences needed in everyday life are developed. The benefits gained from studying mathematics go far beyond classroom environment and cover fields that are unrelated to the realm of pure mathematics. The significant role of mathematical education is recognized by both teachers and parents. However, what do the students themselves think about that issue? This article attempts to find an answer to that question. It presents the results of the study conducted among the elementary school second- and third- grade students. The analysis of the obtained results enables us to get to know students’ point of view on mathematical education, methods of teaching this subject as well as task-solving techniques. Additionally, the motivation to study maths that students present is another issue raised in the article. The results obtained in this study may help to facilitate the didactic process by means of making mathematics classes more engaging for the students. Teaching this subject in accordance with students’ preferences will most likely increase the efficiency of teaching and will reduce their reluctance to explore this subject in depth. DOI: 10.5901/jesr.2013.v3n7p6