Work

Impact of a mathematics early teaching experience for undergraduates: A teacher preparation recruitment strategy

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: Declining enrollments in teacher preparation programs across the United States signal a critical need for institutions of higher education to consider innovative recruitment initiatives. This pilot study investigates a novel approach to recruiting undergraduates into a teacher preparation program. Nine participants, mostly first-year college students, engaged in a year-long experiential learning program. The program provided participants with an early teaching experience in a classroom-like setting by engaging them in the collaborative development, planning, and teaching of mathematics in a summer camp for high school students. Data were collected throughout the year on their: planned major, attitudes towards mathematics and mathematics education, mathematics teaching self-efficacy, and perceptions of the program. Results showed the program was successful at improving attitudes, increasing self-efficacy, and stimulating reflection on a potential career as a mathematics teacher. Participants also shared positive impressions of the experience. Implications for research and future practice are discussed.

Source: International Electronic Journal of Mathematics Education

DOI: 10.29333/iejme/13860

Authors: Jessica A. de la Cruz, Samantha E. Goldman

Language: English

Topic: Teacher Professional Development and Motivation

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: National Science Foundation

Award: Building the Capacity to Recruit, Enroll, and Graduate Mathematics Education Majors