MSE613 TEACHING AND LEARNING OF SCHOOL ALGEBRA
| Course Code: | 4600613 |
| METU Credit (Theoretical-Laboratory hours/week): | 3 (3.00 - 0.00) |
| ECTS Credit: | 8.0 |
| Department: | Mathematics and Science Education |
| Language of Instruction: | English |
| Level of Study: | Graduate |
| Course Coordinator: | |
| Offered Semester: | Fall and Spring Semesters. |
Course Objectives
The course aims to develop graduate students' understanding of (i) what algebra is and its historical development, (ii) the role of algebra in the school mathematics curricula, (iii) how children learn algebra and how to create positive, developmentally appropriate algebra instruction, (iv) the role of technology in the teaching and learning of school algebra, (v) assessment of children's algebraic thinking, and (vi) alternative approaches to algebra from a teaching and learning perspective.
Course Content
What algebra is and why we (have to) learn it. Historical development of algebra and algebraic thinking with implications for its teaching and learning. Overview of and approaches to algebra in school mathematics curricula. How children learn algebra, and how to create positive, developmentally appropriate algebra instruction. Algebraic thinking and early algebra. Overview of research in learning and teaching of algebra. Role of technology in the teaching and learning of school algebra. Assessment of children s algebraic thinking. Teachers and teaching of algebra.
Course Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, the students are expected to
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understand the content (what), methods (how), and materials (tools) necessary to teach algebra.
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understand connections between mathematical procedures and concepts within an algebraic problem-solving environment.
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understand interconnections between algebra and other mathematics content areas such as geometry and arithmetic.
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understand how to assess children's algebraic thinking and plan instruction accordingly.
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examine the beliefs and knowledge in the current literature about the goals and content of algebra via several approaches to algebra, such as generalization, problem-solving, modeling, and functional approaches.
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understand and use the current trends in teaching algebra, such as introducing algebra in early grades to younger students.
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understand and use the current techniques and materials appropriately to teach algebra, such as teaching algebra with the aid of calculator/computer technology, teaching the relationships and structures of algebra to be pictured and studied with the aid of graphs, tables, and diagrams, manipulative materials, textbooks, and other print resources.
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understand what it means to build a learning environment that supports the teaching and learning of algebra.