Course content

The course focuses on the teaching of mathematics in schools. Mathematics is one of the most central subjects taught in schools, and for many students it’s the most difficult and uninspiring. The course aims to give insight into basic concepts regarding early schooling in mathematics. The most important question raised in this course is how some pupils succeed in this subject, and others not. Problems in learning this subject will be explained by illustrating the totality of the learning process, emphasising preventive measures. The learning of mathematics will be described from various theoretical perspectives. The cognitive,
affective, and social aspects of the subject will be highlighted. As the difficulties in learning mathematics are perceived to be established at an early stage, the main emphasis will be put on early learning.

Learning outcome

The aim of the course is to give insight into basic concepts regarding the teaching of mathematics. Students will be given theoretical and practical insight into how teaching can be planned to prevent and address learning difficulties in the subject.

Learning methods and activities

3 hours of lectures per week, 2 hours seminar per week.
Compulsory activity: Participation in 80 % of teaching program and seminar, participation in practical-methodical training, practical work report, practical work for two of the courses PED3542-3544 are to last a minimum of three weeks.
Form of assessment: Obligatory assignment, 4-6 pages (Times New roman 12, spacing 1,5). Topic may be connected to practical work, and chosen by student in cooperation with the lecturer. The prepared obligatory assignment is to be prepared on a group basis under supervision (no more than 4 persons per assignment). It is to be handed in to the lecturer after it has been presented to fellow students in a seminar. 6-hour individual written exam. The individual written exam counts for 60% of the final grade. The obligatory assignment counts for 40% of the final grade.

If less than 10 students sign up for the course it may be cancelled.

Compulsory assignments

• 80 % approved attendance in lectures and seminars
• 1.5 weeks of external practice. Approved practice report

Required previous knowledge

Either Bachelor Degree majoring in Education Studies (82,5 Credits) which includes exams in the following courses: PED1000, PED1001, PED1002, PED1003, PED1004 (the obligatory courses in the Bachelor Degree), or completed the first three years of teacher training-/pre-school teacher training, or Bachelor Degree including 2 years of teacher training/pre-school teacher training, or Bachelor Degree and 1 year teacher training.

Credit reductions