Reflex Math

Reflex Math is a website geared towards obtaining math fluency through fact recall.  While it does have several benefits, it is certainly not in line with the new shift in how we are to teach math.  Here is some more information:

Positives about Reflex:

• Engaging - students can create their own avatar and enjoy using online games to learn
• Adapts to the student (if they consistently struggle with 2 x 5, it will show this fact more so that the student memorizes it)
• Effective in developing and reinforcing fluency (students are able to recall their math facts quickly)
• Parents can create accounts to monitor their son/daughter's progress

Negatives about Reflex:

• Does not teach concepts!  Strictly focused on fact recall and speed
• Follows US curriculum standards so grade levels are not perfectly aligned
• Lab time is required for students to use the site (can be an issue in larger schools or schools without an abundance of technology)
• Very independent - no collaboration or discussion since students need to be focused on their own screen to ensure speed and accuracy
• No problem solving or explaining of concepts if they are not understood (students may know 3 x 5 = 15 but they do not know what that means)

As a result, this is not a website that I would have my students use to learn math.  However, I may allow them time on the site to reinforce concepts that are already clear to them as I do value fact automaticity.  For these reasons, I would give this website 3/10 stars.