Mathematical Success for Students on the Margin: Voices, Practice, and Promise

by Thea K. Dunn

Overview

Mathematical Success for Students on the Margin: Voices, Practice, and Promise evolved out of a commitment to improve mathematics teaching and learning for students who have been marginalized and disconnected and to begin to reverse the cycle of educational failure for students labeled "at-risk." In examining the influences of a teaching experience in an alternative high school on prospective teachers' beliefs and instructional practices, this book provides numerous examples of mathematics lessons and classroom dialogues that indicate how mathematical knowledge emerges in students. The case studies and excerpts of mathematics lessons capture the voices of the teachers and students and provide a window into what occurs in the mathematics classroom and serve as catalysts for readers to critically reflect on the mathematics education of marginalized students. "Exploration" and "Reflection" prompts at the end of each chapter offer a variety of activities and tasks to increase knowledge and understanding of mathematics education and encourage readers to consider mathematics teaching and learning from the perspective of both teacher and learner. By exploring the influences of the preservice teachers' beliefs, perceptions, and instructional strategies on the mathematical development of marginalized students, this book invites reflection on and discussion about the relationship between teacher preparation activities and the mathematical education of students on the margin.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780761833338
Publisher:	University Press of America
Publication date:	04/06/2006
Pages:	172
Product dimensions:	6.40(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.53(d)

About the Author

Thea K. Dunn has been involved in variety of roles in education from classroom teacher, professor, researcher, and consultant to director of an educational foundation. Her primary research interests include the use of technology, reform-based curricula, and culturally-based materials and methods to facilitate the implementation of student-centered pedagogical strategies and support the development of mathematical understandings. Dr. Dunn's substantive areas of interest are the social and cultural contexts that influence mathematics teaching and learning and the development of teachers prepared to address the needs of learners living in contexts of increasing linguistic, cultural, and social diversity. She has long been active in promoting access and equity in mathematics education, has been involved in teaching, research, and service in the U.S., Namibia, India, and Mauritania, and has published and presented her research regionally, nationally, and internationally.