Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate, Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit extends students' knowledge, skills and dispositions relating to early years numeracy, to the exploration of different pedagogical approaches and strategies in the teaching of mathematics and numeracy to primary school children, including those in the middle years. It provides students with opportunities to engage in critical readings, hands-on exercises and discussions of teaching and learning different mathematical topics. There will be an emphasis on students interrogating their understanding and honing their skills in facilitating children learning in a variety of sociocultural and educational contexts, such as learning technologies, mixed abilities, learning disabilities, and creative assessment. Particular emphasis will be placed on topics related to chance and data, and measurement. These activities will be informed by current educational research and policy, both locally and internationally.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to.

1. identify key concepts in primary mathematics and numeracy pedagogy;
2. understand how sociocultural, political and educational contexts underlie, facilitate and impede children learning of primary mathematics and numeracy;
3. evaluate personal professional assumptions about teaching and learning primary mathematics and numeracy;
4. plan for the effective deployment of appropriate pedagogical strategies to support children's learning against current-day, multiple contexts; and
5. assess authentically, efficiently and effectively the extent of children's mathematics and numeracy learning.

Assessment

Assessment task 1: A critical analysis of a selected pedagogical context or issue in numeracy education, informed by relevant research and guided by personal professional experience.(2,000 words, 50%)
Assessment task 2: A reflective examination of the ways in which relevant sociocultural, political and educational contexts have been negotiated in the development of a chosen numeracy unit. (2,000 words, 50%)

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Wee Tiong Seah

Prohibitions

EDF1204, EDF5116, EDF4104