Mathematics’ Special Role in STEM Education
It is believed that a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) opens the doors for students to pursue rewarding educational opportunities and career paths. But how prepared is Canada to meet future skill requirements in these areas, particularly in mathematics?
Mathematics plays a critical role within STEM. A strong foundation in the subject supports student success in more advanced mathematics, as well as in science and in non-routine problem-solving. But the quality of mathematics teaching is fundamental to student success.
Dr. Rina Zazkis, Canada Research Chair in STEM Teaching and Learning, is studying how teachers’ own knowledge of mathematics affects their teaching practices. She is also trying to determine how it affects the choices teachers make in the classroom and their students’ experiences.
Zazkis and her research team are looking at how future teachers acquire advanced mathematical knowledge as undergraduates, and how that relates to their teaching practices and their specialized knowledge-for-teaching at the secondary level. They aim to identify teaching methods that bridge the gap between mathematics taught at the undergraduate and secondary school levels to help ensure high school mathematics teachers are better prepared.
Ultimately, the aim of Zazkis’ research is to improve the quality of mathematics teaching and, as a result, learners’ experiences. She and her team hope this will benefit society by creating a better-educated workforce and increasing students’ career opportunities.