Accelerated Math is a computer-based math learning system for K-12 students that provides personalized homework and allows students to move at their own pace. It helps teachers track progress and provide support. Efficacy data is mixed, but it was developed to help with differentiated instruction.
Accelerated Math® most commonly refers to a computer-based math learning system for kindergarten through 12th grade, made by a company called Renaissance Learning. Computer software provides personalized, personalized math homework to each student, which allows each child to move at their own pace. It is designed to monitor each student’s progress and adjust to provide suitably challenging math practice. Monitoring also allows teachers to easily track student progress and provide additional support to students who need it. Efficacy data is mixed; some small studies show that use of the Accelerated Math® program improves student test scores, but others show that it does not significantly affect results.
In the modern classroom, children with broad skill levels are often together. This can make teaching math difficult because some students learn at different speeds than others. A technique called differentiated instruction is supposed to allow teachers to provide instruction that meets the individual needs of students, and Accelerated Math® was developed to help with this task. As the name suggests, the program allows quick learners to move forward at their own pace, but also allows them to do their homework at a slower pace if needed. While the program was originally developed for the purpose of accelerating learning, many schools use it to provide leveled practice for all students.
After whole-class math lessons, students are able to complete assignments using the Accelerated Math® program that responds to their individual progress and learning needs. The teacher is able to review each student’s progress and assign goals for the student to work towards. The student completes practice assignments and quizzes to demonstrate progress. If he struggles, the program will generate additional practice and problems will be shown on a progress report for the teacher so that extra instruction or re-teaching can be provided. For students who achieve goals quickly, the teacher can allow them to move forward and assign more challenging material.
Research on the effectiveness of Accelerated Math® is mixed. According to the Renaissance Learning website, many studies from various sources support the program’s effectiveness. Many of the school districts that use it report improved test scores, and several studies comparing classrooms using Accelerated Math® to those using other methods have shown greater benefits for those using the program. In a significant counterpoint to this research, What Works Clearinghouse, part of the Institute of Educational Sciences, found that the program had no “detectable effect” on student achievement when studies were evaluated according to US government standards .
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