One year project, 2007
Bill Barton and Judy Paterson, the University of Auckland’s Department of Mathematics
  

Project aim

The study aims to investigate the development of mathematical knowledge for teaching amongst secondary teachers while they are in the classroom.

  
Project plan

The project involves eight secondary mathematics teachers in the Auckland region. These teachers will be supported in Action Research programmes concerning the nature of the mathematical knowledge they present in class.

Each teacher will examine one aspect of their mathematical knowledge in close detail. This will give them an insight into the nature of mathematical knowledge they need for teaching. Collectively they will develop a view of how mathematical knowledge can be enhanced.

Two researchers from The University of Auckland will support the design, implementation, and individual and collective reporting of the research.

Partnerships involved

Eight secondary teachers from eight different schools in the Auckland region will work with two researchers from the Mathematics Education Unit in the Department of Mathematics of The University of Auckland.

This project will be built into a research partnership with Professor Deborah Ball and colleagues at The University of Michigan.

Expected outcomes

1. Information on what mathematical learning is possible by a teacher while engaged in their teaching practice (using an action research methodology supported by an external researcher).
2. Information on teacher perceptions of the effectiveness and practicality of classroom-based mathematics learning as on-going professional development.
3. Information on teacher perceptions of the importance of mathematical knowledge of a teacher with respect to their classroom practice and the mathematics learning of their students.
   

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