EDF5032 - Numeracy and mathematics education in the primary years - 2017

This unit focuses on the role and nature of mathematics education in primary schools and develops in students a critical understanding of the societal and cultural diversity that surrounds and informs mathematics teaching. Students engage with local and international educational research and policy to inform the development of their professional knowledge, skills and values development. Students examine how mathematical learning might be facilitated by the appropriate harnessing of learning technologies and calculators. Students evaluate how numeracy is explicit and implicit in the creation of an inclusive curriculum and the impact of international testing of numeracy/mathematics teaching. The personal numeracy required to critically engage with data about schooling and education is also addressed.

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

1. develop their understanding of key concepts in primary school mathematics and numeracy teaching
2. examine personal assumptions about mathematics and numeracy teaching and learning, reflecting on contemporary discussions in the research, professional and wider communities
3. plan for effective teaching that supports children's learning
4. authentically, efficiently and effectively assess children's mathematics and numeracy learning using a range of techniques
5. use and integrate learning technologies (e.g. calculators, interactive whiteboards, and tablets) in teaching
6. consolidate personal numeracy and statistical literacy.

Numeracy inquiry project (2000 words, 50%)

Lesson planning task (2000 words, 50%)

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • equivalent to 24 hours engagement in online, face-to-face or blended platforms
2. Contact hours for off-campus students:
   • equivalent to 24 hours engagement in online or blended platforms
3. Additional requirements (all students)
   • independent study to make up the minimum required hours per semester

See also Unit timetable information

Associate Professor Ann Gervasoni

Early years and primary education

Primary education

Primary and secondary education