Foundations of Mathematics Education I: Learning

Catalog description

This course focuses on understanding and application of theories of mathematical thinking and learning in research and practice. MTHED 501 Foundations of Mathematics Education I: Learning (3) An understanding of what it means to learn mathematics, knowledge of extant theories of learning mathematics, and knowledge of the nature of students' mathematical thinking at various grade levels are central to the work of mathematics educators. Research, curriculum development, classroom interactions with mathematics students, development of assessments, and many other activities in which mathematics educators engage all draw heavily on understanding and knowledge of mathematical thinking and learning.Students in this course will develop a deeper understanding of classical and contemporary theories of mathematical learning and thinking and comparisons among these theories. Assignments in the course support students' growth in applying these theories to frame research, to enhance instruction, to consider curriculum, to support teacher development, and to effect policy. A major project in the course builds students' skills in investigating mathematical thinking and learning.This course would be one of four required Mathematics Education courses for all doctoral students in the Mathematics Emphasis Area/Curriculum and Instruction Ph.D. program. [The other required courses are MTHED 502 Foundations of Mathematics Education II: Teaching; MTHED 503 Foundations of Mathematics Education III: Curriculum; and MTHED 504 Foundations of Mathematics Education IV: Teacher Development and Policy.]Students in this course would be expected to participate in class discussion, complete weekly assignments, conduct two major projects, and respond to a final examination. Course grades depend on students' performance on all of these measures.