I have mentioned a time or two, that I see more questions about math programs than any other thing.  Today I want to talk about higher level math specifically, starting at pre-algebra.

I know that you might have broken out into a cold sweat with the words higher level math, but there isn’t any need.  I’m going to suggest an alternative for you guys that don’t feel confident teaching math. I was compensated for my time reviewing this product/service and writing this review.

The best part is that it online learning with a twist.  No drive time or getting ready to leave the house.  Your kiddo can simply pop in front of a computer and have access to a math teacher.  A real person.  This isn’t too good to be true.

Online Classes & Math

Online learning and math are not new ideas.  This starts with programs targeted for kids as early as toddlers.  Online classes can be powerful and while all of us have a digital life, we also have a real one.  There are times where you need a real person to answer your exact question and not just a FAQ tab.  That’s where I think this program shines.  I’m talking about Mr. D Math and I can’t wait for my kids to be ready to take his classes.

Mr. D Math

Mr. D Math is a one-stop shop for your higher level math needs.  He offers both self-study and live course options (I highly suggest the live course options).  Who is the man behind Mr. D Math?  Dennis DeNoia and he has a passion for math and education that shines through each lesson.  He has a way of anticipating problems demonstrating his years of experience.  He has been an educator for over 25 years and brings all of his excitement about math and teaching to the homeschool community.

My Experience

I signed up to check out the pre-algebra offerings because that best represents the ages of my kids.  He has classes through pre-calculus and test prep courses.

I’ve been in education for 15 years and I can be hard to impress, but this surpassed my expectations.  I’m a math person.  I’m a natural algebraic thinker.  Show it to me in a formula and I’ll never doubt you.   I was a science major in college and went on to grad school.  I have taken math through college calculus.   He taught me little tips and tricks that I had never seen before.

Below is a screenshot of a lesson number lines:

Distance Learning Doesn’t Mean Impersonal

His teaching was impressive, but what was more remarkable was his rapport with kids that he has only had in class via a virtual classroom.  He knew the kids.  During the sign in process, he asked about family, pets, vacations.  He made connections with kids.  If you have ever taught middle or high school age kids you know that is critical to getting kids to buy-in to your teaching.

He was encouraging without being condescending which can be hard to achieve with this age group. In one class he asked students if they were familiar with a topic.  He started getting negative responses, but he was able to turn it around and give the kids ownership.   He read a few of the chat comments and responded with an empowering message, “I hate these. I’m not good at these. Well, today we are going to get you better at them “.  Everyone wants that kind of encouragement and I think it can be even more important in a virtual environment.

My Recommendation

Pros:

• interactions with students
• empowering statements and atmosphere
• his mentality when it comes to kids & his love of the homeschool community
• he is eager to help kids learn and be comfortable in the world of math.
• doesn’t require extra driving for mom and the other kids

Cons:

• requires a good internet connection
• the cost may feel inhibitive to some, but he offers returning student and sibling discounts.