On 14th October 2021, the Department of Mathematics Education organized a national workshop under the theme, “New Approaches to Improve Teaching Quality of University Level Mathematics”.

The workshop was officially opened by Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdul Samad Salahuddin Ahmad, President of Tishk International University, and addressed by the Dean of Faculty of Education, Dr. Suleyman Celik.

The keynote speakers explained that the workshop’s main objectives were to diagnose problems, difficulties, hindrances, and unexpected pop-up problematic issues that lecturers encounter in the process of instructing students.

The participants were required to brainstorm possible solutions, and to further discuss and suggest possible roles the department can play in mitigating such disruptions. Examples of the notable diagnosed issues included how students lack academic motivation, adoption of student-centered learning approach without a thought-out implementation plan, and general overhaul of the education system without considering traditional methods. Also, the absence of collaboration and cooperation between academicians and mathematicians was highlighted as a major setback in advancing mathematics educations in the region.

The speakers suggested several mitigating measures for the challenges mentioned; the notable solutions amongst them were academic intervention, mixed-methods approach in delivering content, differentiated learning, and regular class observations. Self-directed learning was emphasized as the key best practice in learning, specifically when conducted in conjunction with peer tutoring where students learn through students.

A clear link between theory and real-life application was outlined as another key for enhancing comprehension, and as a motivator for students. As it is believed that teaching methods go hand in hand with motivation, instructors are suggested to apply special instructional methods to boost student confidence. Intrinsic motivation is touted as a key player in students’ academic achievements.

The workshop achieved the presence of 70 participants in total, including 40 members attending online. The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Orhan Tug, Head of the Department of Mathematics Education.