Students at York University’s Markham Campus are taking their math skills beyond the classroom, thanks to a real-world teaching and learning initiative led by Assistant Professor Jessie Yang.
Under Yang’s guidance, seven first-year students host a bi-weekly math club at the Markham Public Library, offering tutoring sessions for children in grades 1 through 4. The students, who come from different disciplines of study, develop lesson plans, conduct math lessons and facilitate tutoring sessions.
Their goal is to inspire young minds to enjoy and excel in math while making the learning process fun and engaging, says Yang, a faculty member in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics, Faculty of Science.
“Despite being in their first year, these student leaders are already making a significant impact in their local community,” says Yang. “By applying their academic training in a real-world setting, they are gaining valuable experiential education that enhances their understanding of mathematical concepts and their ability to communicate effectively.”
The bi-weekly math club aligns with Markham Campus’ goal to foster community engagement and experiential learning.
"The activities helped me connect with students, allowing me to learn how to nurture curiosity and showed the importance of enjoying what you’re learning,” says Tharuk Ranasinghe, a computer science for software development student.
Maria-Aimée Tat, a first-year science student, says the experience has given her an opportunity to see first-hand how teaching can spark insterest in learners – and reinforce learning in teachers.
"Seeing their excitement when a concept finally clicks has been incredibly rewarding,” she says. “We’re grateful to be part of these young learners’ journeys and can’t wait to keep making math exciting.”
The math club sessions began Feb. 22 at the Markham Village Branch and will run until March 22, with two sessions per day that offer four classes for grades 1 to 4.