Job Iles

Iles’ innovative teaching idea, “Interactive Table Talk,” is designed to deepen students’ understanding of math by bringing more interactivity to the classroom. The traditional approach for math instruction involves engaging only one student at a time. Iles’ project will include the construction, by the students, of at least three multi-touch interactive tables. The students will construct the tables, and therefore not only benefit from the technology, but understand and appreciate the technology. These interactive tables will be set up to allow the students to share their findings with one another and the teacher so that one group's findings can benefit the entire class. This encourages discussion surrounding the findings. With multiple tables, various classrooms will have the ability to engage in the same or similar investigations simultaneously, and share their findings across the school. Ultimately, Iles hopes to eliminate isolated pockets of understanding and build a community of learners understanding together.