MAT 764: Methods of Teaching Secondary and Middle School Mathematics

This course is designed to be the capstone course in the teaching and learning of mathematics in the secondary pre-service teacher education program. This course will examine and model a more investigative approach to secondary mathematics instruction through hands-on activities with standards-based and technology-intensive curricula in secondary mathematics. The course will examine learning theories in mathematics in view of recent national and state recommendations for mathematics curricula and instruction—i.e., the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Principles and Standards 2000 and North Carolina statewide learning goals as articulated in the Standard Courses of Study.

The course will include several special emphases. Issues of diversity and equity will pervade the course as we explore the goal of mathematical power for all our students and the diverse learning styles our students bring to the classroom. Technology will be used and evaluated critically throughout the course for its instructional value. Practically all coursework will be submitted online through the course website. In addition, students will have:

1. The opportunity to develop and to present lessons, to examine secondary mathematics curricula, and to learn mathematics more deeply;
2. Hands-on experience with powerful tools for learning mathematics, including various manipulatives; software such as Geometer's Sketchpad, Excel, and Fathom; graphing calculators; computer-based laboratories and data collection devices; interactive Java applets and other internet resources;
3. The opportunity to learn about web development (reviewing the basics of HTML) and curriculum development for the Internet; and
4. The opportunity to interact with teachers and students in a secondary field placement setting, assisting the cooperating teacher in daily instructional activities, and teaching lessons.