An overview of the mathematics and problem solving intervention used by MathsGenius Leadership Institute (MGLI) that encourages a holistic approach to behavior change through community involvement. MGLI calls it PSAMIS, an acronym for Problem-Solving Approach for Mathematics Intervention and Support. Have a look and any feedback will be most welcome.

1. What is the Problem-
Solving Approach for
Mathematics
Intervention and
Support - PSAMISTM?

2. The community-wide
PSAMISTM is a
systematic, evidence based
mathematics intervention
and support approach that
has been found to:

3. Improve the mathematics
performance of all learners
as it is inclusive, holistic
and adequately deals with
inequalities.

4. Increase long term
community participation
and support for
educational activities.

5. Improve the attitude and
behaviour towards
mathematics as a subject.

6. Improve institutional
culture.

7. Enhance content
knowledge, delivery and
receipt of mathematics
instruction.

8. Improve socio-economic
problem solving at the
community level.

9. Encourage ethical
behaviour but
simultaneously fostering
creativity.

10. Learners, teachers (school) and community
members unite to consistently
learn, teach, model and reinforce
appropriate attitudes and behaviour
towards mathematics. This has a catalytic
effect in demystifying the subject and
eventually improving learner
performance and teacher instruction of
the subject.

11. Learners are encouraged and
challenged to use PSAMISTM in all
areas of the school and community.
PSAMISTM emphasises pro-
activity, pro-social, ethical problem
solving using mathematical models.
Typical expectations based on
George Polya’s framework include:

12. Identification of a problem.

13. Fully understand the
problem.

14. Devise an ethical plan.

15. Carry out the ethical plan.

16. Evaluate (Reflection)

17. PSAMISTM is a multi-level intervention
system focused on creating synergy
and momentum within and among
the three main pillars of education,
learners, the school (represented by
teachers) and the community so as
to improve problem solving, ethics
and academic mathematical
achievement.