The aim of the course is to learn to teach mathematics in primary school and preschool. Three main lines are considered. First, approaching the history of elementary mathematics education in Europe, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, and its tracks in modern children math education. Second, applying a vision of elementary mathematics from a higher standpoint to mathematical activities with children; third, discussing the mathematical path of children before and during school, considering naïf mathematical conceptions as linked to the acquisition of language and body development and the endeavor of the teachers at school.
With the study of mathematics and didactics of mathematics the student will be able to achieve the following educational objectives.
- Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of elementary mathematics as a subject in pre-school and primary school, including mathematical concepts as well as historical and epistemological aspects.
- Understanding of main issues in mathematics primary education
- Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to project and guide math activities in the classroom with children
- Making judgements
- Ability to analyse the educational situations regarding mathematics teaching and children's learning of mathematics
- Communication skills
- Ability to develop and lead math talk with children, to present examples and problems
- Learning skills
- Openness to further study in depth of elementary mathematics topics, historical and philosophical research, and the evolution of goals and methods of mathematics education in the international scene.
With the study of mathematics and didactics of mathematics the student will be able to achieve the following educational objectives.
- Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of elementary mathematics as a subject in pre-school and primary school, including mathematical concepts as well as historical and epistemological aspects.
- Understanding of main issues in mathematics primary education
- Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to project and guide math activities in the classroom with children
- Making judgements
- Ability to analyse the educational situations regarding mathematics teaching and children's learning of mathematics
- Communication skills
- Ability to develop and lead math talk with children, to present examples and problems
- Learning skills
- Openness to further study in depth of elementary mathematics topics, historical and philosophical research, and the evolution of goals and methods of mathematics education in the international scene.
teacher profile teaching materials
MARGARET DONALDSON 1978 Children's minds
MARTIN HUGHES 1986, Children and Numbers, Difficulties in Learning Mathematics, Oxford & New York, Basil Blackwell.
Please consider the bibliography in Italian.
Programme
The aim of the course is to learn how to teach mathematics in primary school and preschool, while developing a deep understanding of elementary mathematics and its cultural role. Three main lines are considered. First, a discussion the history of elementary mathematics education in Europe, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, and its tracks in modern children math education. Second, the application of a vision of elementary mathematics from a higher standpoint to mathematical activities with children. Third, an analysis of the mathematical path of children before and during school, considering naïf mathematical conceptions as linked to the acquisition of language and body development and the endeavor of the teachers at school.Core Documentation
ANA MILLÁN GASCA 2016 Numeri e forme. I bambini e la matematica. Zanichelli, Bologna.MARGARET DONALDSON 1978 Children's minds
MARTIN HUGHES 1986, Children and Numbers, Difficulties in Learning Mathematics, Oxford & New York, Basil Blackwell.
Please consider the bibliography in Italian.
Reference Bibliography
Please consider the bibliography in Italian.Type of delivery of the course
The course both lessons presenting systematically aspects of the subject, including direct reading of authors; and practical lessons, with the help of didactical materials, audio-visuals, readings, group work on mathematical activities with children, the comparative analysis of structure and use of textbooks, and the goals and challenges of maths teachers working in preschool (3 to 5 years olds) and primary school. Attendance in this course (twice a week) together with the workshop lesson (Laboratorio) from October to December and from March to May is recommended. Useful materials: Any primary school maths textbook in any language or any grade. Any maths reading book for children, toy, game or educational materials. A squared notebook, pencil, ruler, set square, goniometer and compass.Type of evaluation
Oral exam, including theory and practice (exercises)