Teaching Math

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Mathematics education

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

In contemporary education, mathematics education is the practice of teaching and learning mathematics, along with the associated scholarly research.

At different times and in different cultures and countries, mathematics education has attempted to achieve a variety of different objectives. These objectives have included:

* The teaching of basic numeracy skills to all pupils

* The teaching of practical mathematics (arithmetic, elementary algebra, plane and solid geometry, trigonometry) to most pupils, to equip them to follow a trade or craft

* The teaching of abstract mathematical concepts (such as set and function) at an early age

* The teaching of selected areas of mathematics (such as Euclidean geometry) as an example of an axiomatic system and a model of deductive reasoning

* The teaching of selected areas of mathematics (such as calculus) as an example of the intellectual achievements of the modern world

* The teaching of advanced mathematics to those pupils who wish to follow a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

* The teaching of heuristics and other problem-solving strategies to solve non-routine problems.

* Methods of teaching mathematics have varied in line with changing objectives.

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Research

An increasing amount of research has been done in the area of mathematics education in the last few decades. Here are a few of the major results.

Formative assessment[2]

Formative assessment is both the best and cheapest way to boost student achievement, student engagement and teacher professional satisfaction. Results surpass those of reducing class size or increasing teachers' content knowledge. Only short-term (within and between lessons) and medium-term (within and between units) assessment is effective. Effective...