Mathematics can be fun. A case study through Service-Learning at the University

Abstract

Introduction. Service-Learning is a methodology that manages to contextualize theoretical learning by putting it into practice by offering a service. In this project, students of the Degree in Primary Education teach children from a basketball club a classroom-workshop called "Fun Maths". In this space micro-learning is offered in a playful way. Methodology. The five phases of S-L projects are followed: (1) starting point, the mathematical anxiety experienced by the students; (2) motivating the group, 4 university students and 13 boys and girls are involved; (3) planning, the sessions are designed and adapted; (4) implementation; and (5) evaluation, celebration and improvement, questionnaires are used to evaluate both the learning and the service part, the latter is often not carried out in similar projects. Results. High scores are obtained in the ratings of both the learning and service items. Discussion. The good learning results are reflected in the fact that these undergraduate students consider that having developed this experience has helped them to relate what they learned in classes with real school situations and to reaffirm their choice of profession. The fact that this is a voluntary activity for undergraduate students has led to high values of motivation, dedication, attendance, punctuality, effort, self-criticism, satisfaction, appreciation of learning and personal growth, among others. Likewise, in this work, the opinion of the students of Primary Education is valued, which shows their satisfaction for the experience and for having learned Mathematics by playing.