One cannot escape the feeling that these mathematical formulas have an independent existence and an intelligence of their own, that they are wiser than we are, wiser even than their discoverers. - Heinrich Hertz.
Somehow, somewhere down the line, we have got this larger-than-life image of mathematics — the numbers, lines, shapes and angles. If one sets aside the prejudices and take a closer look, Dean Schlicter's words — Go down deep enough into anything and you will find mathematics — seem to hold the truth.
“Every problem has a solution,” says Vijayalakshmi Raman, a renowned mathematics teacher with 35 years of experience. She adds that maths is to be enjoyed and not to be feared. Ms. Vijayalakshmi, a lover of maths and math teaching, has started a maths activity centre — Dots ‘N' Digits at T. Nagar. The Centre offers an opportunity for children from four to 14 years to explore and discover maths in a playway method.
The Centre provides hands-on experiences to children through games and activities that seek to stoke up their interest.
Ms. Vijayalakshmi has designed a number of fascinating games, math kits, and puzzles that intend to explore the basics of mathematics.
With an extensive knowledge in the subject, she has conceived a methodology and developed books that approach mathematics logically. The materials are also aligned to school curriculum (all boards) and help to reinforce school-based learning. Activities at the centre will also address concepts that may be missing in the primary textbooks but are fundamental to understanding more abstract concepts at the higher level.
The math lab at Dots ‘N' Digits facilitates a positive approach to teaching and learning, where one is allowed to make mistakes and learn from them. The colours, figures and practical concepts captivate the learner. The students will be taught about Indian mathematicians, on how the basic concepts can be extended and simple logics and nuances in solving mathematical problems.
Even in the course of a conversation, Vijayalakshmi, throws puzzles that keeps one motivated.
As a school teacher in well-known city schools, she had composed poems, songs and choreographed dance drama to explain various concepts. She was lauded by former President of India Abdul Kalam at one of the presentations of dance drama by her students.
Dots ‘N' Digits will enrich, engage, explore and extend mathematics, says Ms. Vijayalakshmi adding that children are shrewd in solving problems and one must not underestimate their potential. When they learn the basics now, mathematics will be fun, she adds.
Ms. Vijayalakshmi has won many awards such as the Best Teacher Award by Sri Ramunajan Academy of Math for Talents. She has innovated many game models and was team leader for the Project on ‘Time' and won International Standard Award in Maths.
The Centre has plans to conduct math fair, seminar, workshops and parent connect programmes in the future. It also plans to launch a website exclusively for posting and solving puzzles. Dots ‘N' Digits will accept students based on a diagnostic test. The centre is located at 9/17, Mylai Ranganathan Street, T. Nagar. For details, contact 98842 16213.
