This study was undertaken in order to better understand prospective elementary school teachers' motivations for working with fractions before and after taking a course designed to deepen their understanding of mathematics, as well as what instructional practices might be related to any changes detected in their motivations. Eighty-five education…

The universal emphasis in mathematics education on teaching and learning for understanding can require substantial paradigmatic shifts for many elementary school teachers. Consequently, a pressing goal of teacher preparation programs should be the facilitation of these changes during program experiences. This longitudinal, mixed methods study…

This article describes techniques that can be used to enhance mathematics instruction for English language learners. Using the strategies suggested in this article, such as scaffolding instruction and accommodating their linguistic needs, mathematics teachers can help ELLs both succeed and increase their mathematics achievement. (Contains 3…

Discusses the formation of a geometry club in which members (students, teachers, staff) of a high school meet in order to discuss and demonstrate the mathematics in Euclid's Elements. (MKR)

Discusses two interactive techniques for reducing student anxiety and increasing understanding of statistical concepts. Explains that in one method the students are the data when the class members complete one of two versions of an exercise. Describes the second method as one where students create the statistical application and data. (DK)

According to the National Center for Education Statistics' latest data on cross-national differences in math, science, and reading literacy among fourth- and eighth-graders and 15-year-olds, U.S. students rank close to the bottom in math. Just teaching more advanced subjects and forcing students to take more classes and do more homework, however,…

This article describes how to use and valuate "thought bubble pictures" to uncover students' feelings about mathematics. (Contains 6 figures and 2 tables.)

Investigates the types of instructor behavior that created or exacerbated mathematics anxiety in students. Determines the grade level at which mathematics anxiety first occurred in these students. Concludes that several factors can cause mathematics anxiety, instructor behavior being one of them. (ASK)

Explores the phenomenon of math anxiety in a group of elementary school students by observing and conducting a survey to identify where students fit into the continuum of mathematics confidence. Discusses strategies to reduce math anxiety. (ASK)

This paper discusses the problems associated with mathematics anxiety, and provides detailed information on the history and structure of the Mathematics Anxiety Program at the University of Minnesota. The seven parts concern: (1) the Continuing Education for Women Program, (2) the development of the Math Anxiety Program, (3) the symptoms of…

This paper attempts to generate a comprehensive description of the nature of mathematics anxiety through a synthesis of: (1) the general and test anxiety literatures applied to mathematics anxiety; (2) the mathematics anxiety literature, and (3) case studies developed through in-depth interviews. The indepth interviews were conducted with seven…

This document presents three main strategies that form two closely related teaching methodologies: special techniques, peer responsibility, and joint projects. The first two strategies combine together to form the first teaching methodology, Special Techniques and Peer Responsibility Teaching Method (STAPRM), and all three strategies combine…

For many students, the longer they are in school, the less they trust in their ability to do math and fail to see why math is important to know. How can middle and secondary school educators turn that tendency around? Teachers can explore how their colleagues are answering that question and improving math programs in grades 7-12 in this next…

Differences in cognitive structure are approached through consideration of cartesian and non-cartesian knowing. Figuration and configuration are described as two layers of cartesian knowing leading to the third layer, the cognitive structure. Knowing in general is then discussed, with comments on learning in another culture, Botswana. (MNS)

This paper describes the "Make-A-Problem" activity through which students can reframe their attitudes toward mathematics by putting art into the mathematics class. "Make-A-Problem" contains three sections: (1) problem--the student creates a problem dealing with a specific concept assigned by the instructor; (2) picture--an artistic interpretation…