Masters Theses/Capstone Projects
Date of Award
Spring 5-1-2021
Document Type
Paper
Degree Name
Curriculum and Instruction (MAE)
First Committee Member
Dr. Dee Knoblauch
Advisor
Dee Knoblauch
Second Committee Member
Dr. Jeffrey Smith
Third Committee Member
Dr. Diane Ross
Keywords
Math Instruction, Differentiation, Math Stations, Meaningful Work, Challenging Work, First-Grade
Subject Categories
Elementary Education | Higher Education
Abstract
This study intended to determine the benefits of using differentiated math stations in a first-grade classroom. The goal was to learn if the levels of differentiated stations affected the first-grade students’ ability to select meaningful and challenging work. Six students from my first-grade class were selected as participants for a purposeful, stratified sample. All participants were volunteers. A research action design method was used to observe participants’ level selections and strategies. Participants interacted with three differentiated math stations in one rotation for a total of four rotations during three weeks of observations. An exit slip completed by students noted their feelings during stations, confidence in selecting appropriately challenging levels, and their favorite part of math stations. Exit slip responses were completed at the end of each rotation. The study supported students in attempting challenges, trying to find appropriate tasks, and expressing their mathematical understanding through the use of exit slips. The data suggested important benefits of differentiated math stations, but more research is needed regarding participant’s choice. Limitations such as the pandemic, health and safety precautions, the duration of stations, as well as the predetermined challenge levels used during the study could explain the outcomes.
Licensing Permission
Copyright, all rights reserved. Fair Use
Recommended Citation
Callahan, Nicole, "The Effects of Using Differentiated Math Stations on Students' Ability to find Meaningful and Challenging Work in a First-Grade Classroom" (2021). Masters Theses/Capstone Projects. 77.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_master/77
Presentation Video