Indonesian New Normal Mathematics Education - Seeking Certainty in Uncertain Times

Abstract

Humanity has dealt with pandemics or plagues throughout history. History also demonstrates that in periods of uncertainty there are always guides that remain certain. In response to Covid-19, the Indonesian government’s ‘New Normal’ provided a list of challenges for all educators, who must then adapt their resources and pedagogical strategies to meet these challenges. Yet, from the ‘Old Normal’ what remains a certainty for educators amongst all the chaos of pandemic change? This paper discusses the pedagogical norms that research has provided regarding the teaching and learning process for mathematics at all levels. It argues that these norms provide certainty for educators in their planning and delivery irrespective of resources, context, or online capacity. It is by following these norms that educators will improve mathematics skills for ‘New Normal’ education. Whether the responses to the New Normal are to become successful depends greatly upon the adaptability and dedication of these educators, who should be regarded as ‘super heroes’ or ‘national treasures’.