EDF5454 - Mathematics education A

Leader: Dr H Forgasz (Clayton); Mr S Keast (Clayton); and Dr T Barkatsas (Gippsland)

Offered

Clayton First semester (Open Learning) 2007 (Open Learning)
Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2007 (Off-campus)
Gippsland First semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

In this unit students will be introduced to a range of issues associated with being a secondary mathematics teacher. Issues examined include: how children learn mathematics; contemporary mathematics curricula; theories informing the approaches to mathematics teaching advocated; planning to teach mathematics; and locating resources. A range of content areas within the curriculum are the avenue through which the issues are examined.

Objectives

The unit is based on a number of broad objectives which will enable successful students to:

1. examine the mathematics curriculum and its underpinning principles
2. broaden their awareness of mathematics as a subject to be learnt and to teach;
3. develop knowledge of teaching styles and assessment methods for mathematics;
4. explore the needs of various groups of students and consider the range of factors that can influence learning outcomes;
5. develop knowledge of the resources available to a teacher of mathematics;
6. develop skills in planning mathematics lessons; and
7. learn about aspects of school mathematics not previously studied.

Assessment

Classroom observation and reflection - written report 30% (1200 words equivalent); and Mathematics content analyses - reports 70% (2800 words equivalent). Student involvement in the unit is important

Contact hours

3 hours per week

Prerequisites

A minor sequence in mathematics. (Statistics is acceptable provided it is taken within a Mathematics Department)