Unlocking Math through Storytelling: A Global Approach to Learning

Silvia Villarreal, an elementary school teacher from Mexico, has been immersed in education for as long as she can remember. Her family has owned a private co-ed school in Mexico since 1989, where she served in many roles, from administrative assistant to teacher and Academic Director, for over a decade. This diverse experience deeply shaped her approach to education and inspired her to pursue further studies at SFU.

"During the pandemic, I realized my limitations in using technology to promote learning. This challenge motivated me to resume my education," Silvia explains. This realization led her to pursue the MEd in Educational Technology and Learning Design (ETLD) program to gain the tools and skills needed to create something special for her students.

Overcoming Challenges and Growing at SFU

Despite her initial apprehension, Silvia was embraced by a nurturing community of classmates and mentors at SFU. Their support was instrumental in helping her overcome the early challenges she faced.

"I vividly remember my first class—feeling overwhelmed by the terminology and the task of building a website—but the journey soon became an exciting adventure thanks to my classmates and teachers."

The ETLD program pushed Silvia out of her comfort zone and inspired ongoing reflection on her teaching practices. She gained practical skills and tools that will continue influencing her approach to curriculum design, research, and instructional strategies in various educational settings.

Positive Feedback and Future Expansion

Silvia's project has been a beacon of hope for English teachers at her former school in Mexico. It has not only helped students engage with math but also received positive feedback. "The English teachers have given me positive feedback and support for the project. They introduce the stories during their classes, and the kids enjoy reading or listening to the stories and the activities we've created around them," Silvia reflects.

Looking ahead, Silvia is excited to build on this success post-graduation. "I would like to create a stronger presence on social media by inviting followers to share stories and designing activities like surprise stories or polls," she says. Additionally, she is exploring new ideas, such as creating black-and-white versions of the stories in a colouring book format to engage students further. She also envisions the project being adapted for different educational settings, such as online learning platforms or after-school programs, to reach a wider audience of ELLs.

Reflecting on her time in the ETLD program, Silvia acknowledges the challenges and the invaluable lessons that have shaped her path. "The program was challenging but mostly enlightening," she reflects. "It has equipped me with the skills and confidence to bring innovative solutions to classrooms, and I am excited to apply these lessons in real-world educational contexts." 

As she prepares to embark on the next phase of her journey with her Post-Graduation Work Permit in progress, Silvia is determined to continue making a meaningful impact. Her passion for creating inclusive, engaging learning experiences through mathematics and storytelling is just the beginning.