Mathematics and Science Beginning Teacher Project


Goal:
The goal of this project is to support beginning teachers so they can make a successful transition into the profession of teaching as effective teachers of standards-based mathematics and science.

Description:
In this two-year project, participants meet for 15 sessions during the 2000-01 school year to deepen their understanding of standards-based mathematics and science instruction, further their familiarity with district expectations and curricula, and collaboratively problem solve.

During a summer institute in 2001, participants will focus on developing year-long plans for mathematics and science teaching, learning, and assessment. Then in the 2001-02 school year, participants will meet for 14 sessions for support and to focus more deeply on students' learning of mathematics and science. Throughout the entire project, participants and instructors interact regularly through online conferences and email.

As a result of this project, participants:

  • Become well-versed on the philosophy, components, approaches, content, and performance-based assessment of the MPS elementary mathematics and science programs, Investigations in Number, Data, and Space; and Explorations in Science.

  • Become capable of using an inquiry approach to engage all children in standards-based mathematics and science learning.

  • Form a learning community around the teaching and learning of mathematics.

  • Develop the capacity to be life-long learners within the professional organizations of mathematics and science education.
The immediate outcomes of this project are support and collegiality for beginning teachers and improved teacher knowledge and implementation of the district's mathematics and science curricula. In addition, university faculty are better able to align their courses with the needs of beginning teachers, having gathered immediate feedback from participants.

Funding:
Wisconsin Eisenhower Professional Development Program

Additional Funding: Milwaukee Public Schools

Director:
DeAnn Huinker

Project Period:May 2000 - June 2001
 
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