Maths education

In 2005, the MOE and the NZQA began a pilot programme to trial the use of the latest generation of calculators which included Computer Algebraic Systems (CAS) capabilities.  The intent was to give quality professional development to effectively use CAS in the classrooms and to eventually allow the calculators in CAS-enabled NCEA assessments in the same way that graphics calculators are currently used.

NZCER evaluated an extension of the pilot in 2006-2007.  The evaluation explored changes to:

This research reports on the impact of Level 1 NCEA on the teaching of mathematics and science. It provides an in-depth analysis of the dynamics of change in the study teachers’ mathematics and science classrooms in response to the NCEA implementation. A range of aspects of classroom practice were identified where one way of working or set of emphases could be balanced against another way of working/set of emphases. Findings with respect to shifts in the balances of the alternatives outlined for these aspects of classroom practices are presented.

Instruction can help students develop a richer understanding of estimation and a wider range of strategies.

The students in this study started with a fairly limited understanding of estimation, often equating it with rounding. They quickly developed new skills and awareness of how estimation could enrich their mathematical skills.

This exploratory study of self-regulated learning for mathematics education looked at how to encourage self-regulating behaviour using reflective journalling and models to represent problem situations.