Nigeria: New Methods of Teaching English, Mathematics Emerge

A new method of teaching and learning English Language and Mathematics, called Helen Doron English has come to limelight during a press conference organized by the Distinct Integrated Service Limited, Nigeria's national franchisor.

According to the MD/CEO, Barr. Mariam Agunbiade of Distinct Integrated Service," the concept of Helen Doron is to enable international students to speak English Language like the native speakers, stressing that Helen Doron Group which has been in operation for over 25 years is Internationally recognized and respected with franchise network in over 26 countries worldwide, especially in Europe, America and Asia.

She said, "to achieve this, a new methodology based on the "natural' way children learn their native tongue: through repeated hearing and positive reinforcement. "Her method of teaching includes the use of specially made props and teaching materials, movement, interactive games, song activities, audio-visual CDs, reading books, workshops, flash cards and so on."

In her speech, she said, "the innovative method of Helen Doron English include the teaching of speaking, reading, writing and listening skills all at the same time through her unique methodology."

Besides, the uniqueness in teaching English, Hellen Doron uses special method called MathRiders to teach mathematics which make children who have difficulties or hatred in Mathematics to develop interest and understand it with little or no stress. In her words: "MathRiders is a unique maths enrichment system, method of teaching maths and maths curriculum that elevates children's academic progress in maths from kindergarten up to the high school sixth form. MathRiders covers the essentials of maths study in an expertly structured learning program that cultivates real logic and thinking skills".

Mariam continues, "In children mathRiders motivates, instills a joy of learning, and ensures success for children and young people of all ages and skill levels. In young children concrete innovative method is used to teach mathematics to develop interest in maths.

The method prepares young minds for a successful future in maths learning. Lessons are designed to stimulate the brain and engage the children in hands-on problem-solving activities for a brighter future in mathematics. The younger children's Maths is called Mathjog."

The ages 11-18 acquire a firm knowledge in algebra, arithmetic, geometry, logic and thinking skills, to build better study habit, independence and self reliance. It includes the enrichment exercises, refreshers excercises, group activities and individual study.

According to the MD, the methodology includes the use of props and materials, movement, brain-jog exercises, concrete and hands-on-problem-solving activities (MathRiders).

Relevant Links

• West Africa
• Education
• Nigeria

In her speech, she said, opportunity is open to private and public schools, teachers, federal government, including investors by seizing this opportunity and include this method of teaching and learning into school curriculum, stressing that it will bring out the best in our children's spoken English and Mathematics.

"People with solid business qualifications, keen to work in educational sector, can buy a Helen Doron Master Franchise or a Learning Centre Franchise in order to have time to build up their centres, ready to meet the educational challenge in the sector," she said.