Coordinator: Dr. Eva Thanheiser (732-932-7496, ext. 8153, email: evat@rci.rutgers.edu)
The Master of Education degree program in Mathematics Education is designed for students with strong mathematical or technical backgrounds who are interested in mathematics learning and teaching. The program stresses the need for students to be familiar with the entire K-16 range of mathematics learners, issues, and current developments. As such, it is appropriate for prospective researchers in mathematics education, college-level mathematics instructors, secondary mathematics teachers, and, in exceptional cases, elementary teachers with a strong interest and background in mathematics. While New Jersey certification is not required for entry into the program, many of the students are already certified and employed in New Jersey secondary or postsecondary schools. (One program option, the Ed.M. in Mathematics Education (Certification: Teacher of Mathematics), serves the needs of students who are seeking New Jersey teacher certification.)
The required and elective courses in the program deal with basic problems in the learning and teaching of mathematics, techniques and strategies for studying children's mathematical thinking, the uses of technology in mathematics teaching, and with mathematics itself. Students in the program have opportunities to engage in some independent studies, a good deal of small group work, and some fairly traditional whole group class sessions. Students will also be involved in the ongoing research and professional development activities of the faculty and doctoral students in mathematics education.
DESCRIPTION
OF MASTER'S PROGRAM
The
following outline serves as a guide to the distribution of courses. Students
are urged to maintain frequent contact with their advisers in order to
construct a plan of study, select appropriate courses, and discuss changes that
may be needed or desired. Please note that at least 15 of the 30 credits that
comprise the full degree program must be taken at the 500 level or above.
PROGRAM
REQUIREMENTS
I. Department Major (21 credits)
A. Mathematics Education (12)
Required (6 credits)
254:540 Introduction to Mathematics Education (3)
254:644 Mathematics Education Practicum (3)
Elective Mathematics Education Courses (6 credits)
254:541 Analysis of Mathematics Curricula I (3)
254:543 Background for Teaching Elementary School Mathematics I (3)
254:544 Background for Teaching Elementary School Mathematics II (3)
254:547 Seminar in Elementary School Mathematics (3)
254:548 Technology in Mathematics Teaching (3)
254:645 Independent Study in Mathematics Education (BA)
254:648 Topics in Mathematics Education (3)
300:341 Modern High School Mathematics (3)
300:442 Problem Solving Processes in Mathematics (3)
300:443 Methods of Teaching Secondary School Mathematics (3)
B. Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics (9 credits)
Elective Courses (Choose from the mathematics, computer science, or
statistics departments or appropriate content-focused courses at the GSE)
II. Electives (9 credits)
With adviser's approval, these courses may be taken anywhere in the university. At least 6 of these elective credits must be from areas outside of mathematics education.
III. Comprehensive Examination or Alternative
Total Credits: 30
