Manchester Metropolitan University: Mathematics in Context
Aim
To examine the effectiveness for pupils and the support needs of teachers in introducing and using a new approach to teaching mathematics (Realistic Mathematics Education (RME)) at Key Stage 3 in England.
Background
The programme explores a way of teaching mathematics using realistic or realisable situations based on an approach to teaching called Realistic Mathematics Education (RME) generated in the Netherlands over the last 30 years. The programme uses a set of resources called Mathematics in Context (MiC) developed through collaboration between the Freudenthal Institute and the University of Wisconsin.
The approach involves introducing and developing mathematical concepts through the use of contexts. Although many mathematics teachers in England use realistic situations in their teaching there is little evidence of sustained use of these and even less evidence of knowing how we make productive use of pupils’ common sense and life experiences to support mathematical development.
In the first year of the programme 12 teachers from 6 local secondary schools are trialling the approach with year 7 classes and will gradually be expanded to more schools and all KS3 classes.
The intended project outcomes, as identified in the original proposal, are:
- To trial and evaluate a pedagogy of RME through the use of MiC
- To identify transfer and compatibility variables including the fit of MiC to the National Strategy and end of Key Stage 3 assessment
- To identify significant teacher attitudes and skills required in this approach to teaching.
- To identify development needs of teachers utilising RME
- To develop materials including website and DVD to support teachers
- To establish a network of support to allow effective expansion of this approach nationally
Contact
Frank Eade
Telephone 0161 247 2296
Email F.eade@mmu.ac.uk
Website
http://s13a.math.aca.mmu.ac.uk[click on “Developing Mathematics through Contexts”]