Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
The Mathematics Enthusiast
Volume
17
Issue
2
Publisher
The University of Montana
Publication Date
6-2020
First Page
615
Last Page
640
Abstract
Active learning mathematics classrooms incorporate meaningful activities that emphasize reasoning, thinking and active interaction with mathematics. Current mathematics standards and curricula recommend that Mathematics Teacher Educators (MTEs) use elements of active learning in their mathematics content courses specifically designed for Prospective Teachers (PTs) as they prepare PTs to learn and teach mathematics. However, it can be very difficult for PTs to shift their pedagogical dispositions towards instruction associated with active learning because they typically have not experienced mathematics taught in this way. This article focuses on two instructional practices for MTEs to use with PTs. First, selecting tasks that promote reasoning and problem solving. This includes practices to open tasks for multiple entry points or solution strategies, tasks that allow for analysis of examples and counterexamples, and tasks that evaluate multiple strategies. Second, facilitating meaningful mathematical discourse. This includes practices for whole class and small group discourse. When MTEs use active learning strategies with PTs in their mathematics content courses, PTs begin their journey in shifting their beliefs and understandings about what it means to teach and learn mathematics. By offering PTs valuable active learning experiences during their mathematics content courses and highlighting how these experiences can enhance both PTs’ own understanding and their future students’ mathematical understanding, MTEs will provide a valuable foundation for PTs to meet the expectations for teaching and learning in mathematics classrooms.
Recommended Citation
Litster, K., MacDonald, B., & Shumway, J. F. (June 2020). Experiencing active mathematics learning: Meeting the expectations for teaching and learning in mathematics classrooms. In A. Appova, R. M. Welder, and Z. Feldman, (Eds.), Supporting Mathematics Teacher Educators’ Knowledge and Practices for Teaching Content to Prospective (Grades K-8) Teachers. Special Issue: The Mathematics Enthusiast, ISSN 1551-3440, vol. 17, nos. 2 & 3, pp. 615–640. ScholarWorks: University of Montana. Retrieve (open access) from: https://scholarworks.umt.edu/tme
