.
    EDUCATION 475-4
    Designs for Learning: Elementary Mat
    Fail Semester, 1988
    ?
    Instructor:
    Thursday, 4:30 - 8:20 p.m.
    ?
    Office:
    Location: MPX 7500
    ?
    Phone:
    hematics
    Dr. Tom O'Shea
    MPX 8642
    291-4453 (office)
    291-3395 (messages)
    Education 401/402, or equivalent.
    The mathematics curriculum in British Columbia is undergoing major change at the
    present time. The revised curriculum will include new topics such as data analysis and probability,
    and other topics, such as geometry, will receive heavier emphasis. Calculators will become a
    natural component of the school program. Students will be expected to use manipulative
    materials as a major vehicle for learning.
    This course is designed for prospective and practising elementary school teachers who
    wish to explore the fundamentals of the learning/teaching process as it applies to mathematics.
    The course will draw on the latest research in mathematics learning, and will show how such
    findings may be used in the classroom. Students will be expected to become familiar with and
    confident in the use of a variety of manipulative materials such as geo-boards, logic blocks, and
    coloured rods. They will also explore the realities of mathematical learning by examining their own
    learning powers and patterns. On completion of the course it is hoped that participants will feel
    more at ease with the subject of mathematics, be able to deal confidently with the prescribed
    curriculum, and be able to plan mathematical instruction within a consistent framework.
    OUTLINE OF TOPICS
    * Theories of mathematics learning
    * Problem solving
    * Measurement
    * Arithmetic operations
    * Rational numbers
    * Geometry
    * Estimation
    * Ratio and proportion
    * Data analysis
    * Technology
    * Algebra
    * Evaluation and remediation
    TYPICAL REQUIREMENTS
    Students will be expected to attend all classes, and to participate fully in classwork and
    discussions. Specific assignments will depend on the number and backgrounds of students
    enrolled in the course, but students should expect to complete the following:
    .
    ?
    .
    - a problem-solving assignment in which students keep a journal to record their efforts
    over a period of time.
    - an assignment related to the newly authorized series of elementary textbooks in
    British Columbia.
    - an assignment that requires students to examine a number of professional journals
    related to the teaching of mathematics.
    - a presentation to the class demonstrating an idea, activity, or technique for teaching
    mathematics.
    - a lesson development assignment related to the B.C. Mathematics Curriculum Guide,
    Grades 1-8.
    In addition, each student will be expected to complete a project related to his or her own
    interests, as negotiated with the instructor.
    Post, T. R. (ed.). (1988). Teaching mathematics in grades K-8: Research based methods.
    Toronto: Allyn and Bacon.

    Back to top