This course focuses on the theories and principles of curriculum development in mathematics and their application in the secondary mathematics classroom. Students will develop an in-depth theoretical and practical understanding of relevant curriculum development theories in mathematics education, and will demonstrate a critical awareness of issues relating to curriculum development for concept and skill-based learning progression within their own professional context in the UAE. This evaluative process will allow them to apply relevant principles and theories from current mathematics education research to autonomously develop engaging and challenging medium to long term mathematics learning pathways that foster progression in mathematics knowledge and skills. Students will also learn to critically self-evaluate their professional practice, knowledge, and skills in terms of curriculum development for learner progression.
Week 1
Introduction to Course: Curriculum Development and Progression
Overview of models and trends in curriculum development
Classroom-level curriculum development
Required reading
Week 2
The mathematics curriculum: key concepts and big ideas
Concepts that underpin the mathematics curriculum
Required reading
Recommended reading
Week 3
The mathematics curriculum: skills and epistemic beliefs/nature of mathematics
Skills and beliefs that underpin the mathematics curriculum
Required reading
Week 4
The mathematics curriculum: Progression pathways
Conceptual and skill progression across the cycles.
Required reading
Various curriculum documents for local and international curricula.
National Curriculum of England Mathematics
Recommended reading
Hattie, J., Fisher, D., Frey, N., Gojak, L. M., Moore, S. D., & Mellman, W. (2016). Visible learning for mathematics, grades K-12: What works best to optimize student learning. Corwin Press. (Chapter 3)
Week 5
Classroom strategies for curriculum progression
Mathematics Learning Made Visible – progression in learning.
Required reading
Week 6
Classroom strategies for curriculum progression
Step 1: Surface Learning
Required reading
Week 7
Classroom strategies for curriculum progression
Step 2: Deep Learning
Required reading
Week 8
Classroom strategies for curriculum progression
Step 3: Mathematics Transfer
Required reading
Week 9
Curriculum Unit Developments
Unit plan and self-evaluation
Learning Progressions as Tools for Curriculum Development
Required reading
Week 10
Assessment in Mathematics Education
Formative assessment /AfL strategies in Mathematics
Teacher reflection and student voice
Required reading
Week 11
Assessment in Mathematics Education
Summative Assessment Strategies in Mathematics
Required reading