A Comparative Analysis of Mathematics Teaching Methodologies in Junior High Schools

Japan and Liberia

Abstract

This research explores the differences in mathematics teaching methodologies between Japan and Liberia in junior high school. The study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each system, providing insight into potential improvements for Liberian mathematics education. Japan’s emphasis on problem-solving, critical thinking and Liberia’s more traditional approach. Japan’s mathematics teaching strategies and methodologies were concluded to be more effective than those in Liberia. In Liberia, however, demonstration was the most used method, guided by Bandura’s theory (1977) of social/observational learning. Challenges were also observed as the teachers shifted from teacher-oriented to learner-oriented instruction. Japan’s mathematics teaching strategies and methodologies were concluded to be more effective than those in Liberia, as learners showed a greater understanding, and the teachers appeared to have greater subject knowledge expertise and pedagogical. Content knowledge.