Neufeld Learning Systems Inc. (NLSI) combines the excellence of The Understanding Math Series of programs and our Professional Learning Series (PLS) to improve a teacher’s capacity in the instruction of mathematics. The Understanding Math programs “unpack” the mathematical concepts into their discrete sub concepts. These concepts are developed from the concrete to the pictorial to the abstract using multiple representations. This approach makes mathematical concepts accessible to everyone. The Understanding Math Series of programs combines a highly interactive computer based learning environment that enables students to learn from their mistakes and at their own pace.

Our PLS provides a series of leveled workshops that lead participants to further develop their instructional capacity for mathematics. The workshops give teachers the theory and practicality of effective implementation strategies. The focus is on integrating a variety of resources – technology, instructional strategies, manipulatives, textbook, etc. – into their mathematics program. This approach lays the foundation for a program that gives each student the opportunity to make connections in an inquiry based, student centered learning environment.

There are 3 levels of professional development workshops in our PLS:

• Level 100: The first workshop of the PLS is focused primarily on modeling and supporting efficient use of the software. The more specific goals of the workshop are for the participants to be able to understand and discuss the 6 grounding principles of NLSI; moving from the concrete to the pictorial to the abstract, multiple representations of concepts, interactivity, learning from mistakes, pacing controlled by the learner and, using a wide variety of teaching strategies.