[RUME] major in mathematics for future elementary teachers

[Sharon Senk]

Michigan State University is creating a new teaching major in  
mathematics designed for undergraduates seeking certification as  
elementary teachers (Grades K-8 in MI). We are seeking information  
from others who may have designed similar majors or who may have  
conducted research on faculty or students involved with such majors.  
Some additional details about the major and our specific interest  
follow.

Requirements of the new major include 2 semesters of Mathematics for  
Elementary Teachers (mostly about numbers and geometry and based on  
the Parker/Baldridge & Beckmann textbooks), 2 semesters of calculus,  
one course each on advanced geometry, intro to proofs & abstract  
structures,  the history of mathematics, and statistics & probability,  
as well as two new courses yet to be designed. The new courses will be  
offered at the 300-level with one course about algebra and the other a  
capstone course for these future elementary/middle school mathematics  
teachers.  We welcome hearing about syllabi, instructional materials,  
course assignments, and research methods that you may have used while  
working with similar students.

Please reply to me (senk at math.msu.edu) and my colleague Richard O.  
Hill (hill at math.msu.edu).

Thank you and best regards,

Sharon and Dick


Sharon L. Senk
Professor, Department of Mathematics
Professor, Division of Science & Mathematics Education
D 320 Wells Hall
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824
Phone: 517-353-4691
Fax: 517-432-1562
senk at math.msu.edu