Date Approved

8-6-2024

Graduate Degree Type

Project

Degree Name

Education-Instruction and Curriculum: Elementary Education (M.Ed.)

Degree Program

College of Education

First Advisor

Dr. Sherie Klee

Academic Year

2023/2024

Abstract

In today’s classrooms, some students struggle to achieve at high levels in math. Yet, recent research describing the neuroplasticity of the brain means that, with a mathematical mindset, all students can achieve in math at the highest levels in school. Unfortunately, some capable students disengage from the subject due to a fixed mindset or holding beliefs in math myths, such as only some people are born with a math brain or math is about speed. Achievement in math can open more opportunities in a student’s future. Entrance into college and various careers that require mathematical skills become possible when students achieve in math and hold positive math identities. Educators’ understanding of the brain’s capabilities, their personal beliefs about math, their impact on the math learning environment and their students’ math identities can positively influence students’ math success. Professional development for teachers in these specific areas has the power to bring awareness of everyone’s capabilities of learning and succeeding in math and provides teachers with the tools needed to create a mathematical mindset classroom. Training sessions can also build teachers’ knowledge on math identities and aid them in creating tools that can be used in their classroom to learn about the personal math beliefs their students’ hold. With knowledge and skills teachers can create math learning environments that promote math success for all students.

Download

Share

COinS