ED1AC4-Mathematics, Children and Education 1

Module Provider: Institute of Education
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Module Convenor: Mr James Davies

Email: james.davies@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will primarily explore theoretical concepts of key figures in the field of children’s mathematical development, including, but not limited to, Piaget, Vygotstky, Bruner, Skemp and Papert. The module will also explore key features of effective mathematical learning environment, including the use of mathematical story picture books, structured and unstructured manipulatives as well as examine outdoor mathematics learning and teaching activities. 

Aims:

• To establish independent, well-informed views on the nature of mathematics teaching and learning

• To reflect on what we know about children’s mathematical development and implications for classroom practice

• To critically evaluate the use of story picture books, structured and unstructured manipulatives and outdoor learning in the context of mathematics teaching and learning

Assessable learning outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

• Propose and defend a pedagogy for mathematics teaching and learning, drawing on school-based experience and research literature

• Explain the contribution made by key theorists in the field of children’s mathematical conceptual development

• Evaluate the use of story picture books within mathematics teaching

Additional outcomes:
Students will develop an understanding of the processes involved learning mathematics and implications for practice. They will explore the pedagogical issues affecting the teaching of mathematics in the primary school. They will learn to work both independently and as part of a team, and to link theory and practice. They will reflect critically on their own developing role as a mathematics teacher and specialist, identifying targets for personal development.

Outline content:

The module will follow two strands:

Mathematical development

• Children’s mathematical development (e.g. Piaget, Vygotsky, Bruner, Skemp, and Papert)



Developing the mathematical learning environment

- Researching the use of mathematical story picture books, structured and unstructured manipulatives and outdoor learning.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This module will be delivered in interactive sessions, which include lecturing, discussion, practical activities, blended learning, provided through Blackboard and student-led research-based Symposium presentations. Sessions will require some pre-reading, and students should be prepared to contribute their views and work collaboratively in order to make presentations.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	24
Guided independent study:	176
Total hours by term	200
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:
n/a

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
Written assignment (2,500 words)

Formative assessment methods:

Formative assessment will be made through on-going observation of the students’ engagement with and contributions to sessions.

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;

where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
An overall mark of 40%.

Reassessment arrangements:
Resubmission of a written assignment during the summer resit period.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required Textbooks: No required Textbooks. A list of recommended books will be given at the beginning of each module.

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: Occasional printing of materials. Students will need to provide a printed copy of their assessment. Library printing costs are 5p for B/W page and 15p for colour page

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 19 August 2019