Textbooks

From a teacher's perspective, it is important to consider how a math textbook positions students in relation to their teacher, other people and their own experience. I thought it was interesting to consider how the textbook's language can either reinforce a formal teacher/student relationship or encourage a more interactive approach. I also liked the idea to encourage students to challenge or critique the content. I was thinking about how the textbook was used in class impacting my learning experience. I remember in some classes, greatly depending on the textbook and studying it. I knew that they teacher trusted it as a main resource and that it contained almost everything I needed to know to be successful. Other of my past teachers, only seemed to use it as a resource for questions but it wasn't as central to the class routine. I often saw myself in the questions or scenarios but I imagine for many students the use of personal pronouns and modality in the textbook's language didn't make them feel included in the curriculum. Thinking about the textbook's we looked at in class, I think images and reference can help students connect to the relevance of math in real-life contexts. 

I think textbooks can be really helpful resources for some students. I do not think I want it to be central in my learning environment. I think for some students, having something tangible that isn't online is helpful. I also thinking having a compact resource where they don't have to sort through online information can be helpful. When the teacher gives some optional work, it allows students to choose how much they use the textbook. I see the benefits of using online resources - it is convenient, accessible, and there is so much to draw on! However, I also really enjoyed having a book I could write in and make my own. I am also attached to the idea of helping students reduce their screen time. In summary, I don't think textbooks are central but I think they can be helpful for some students.