Math education

The ties between our math programs and professionals in the field are strong. Faculty members spend significant time in the schools with active and retired teachers to conduct research that will improve math materials and help teachers teach more effectively. Students choosing this field of study will find themselves challenged with the latest ideas and theories in mathematics. Our faculty, some of whom have taught at the middle school and high school levels, are leaders in research on new curricula and application of new graduation standards in Minnesota schools. Coursework in this field emphasizes teaching through hands-on methods that focus on problem solving, spatial visualization, and algebraic competence. Whether you want to teach mathematics in a school setting or pursue a career doing research in mathematics education, the University of Minnesota can provide excellent preparation from nationally recognized faculty.

Degree program information in mathematics education

• Ph.D.: for experienced professionals who want to develop advanced research, knowledge, and leadership skills in their chosen field
• M.A.: a research-based master's degree for individuals who want to develop research and teaching skills, and advanced knowledge in their chosen field

The following program links will take you to Student Services

• M.Ed./initial licensure: for individuals seeking licensure to teach in preK-12 settings
• M.Ed./professional studies: for licensed teachers and other professionals interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills with specific emphasis in mathematics education

Faculty

• Lesa Covington Clarkson
  My research agenda focuses on mathematics in the urban classroom, specifically identifying successful strategies that increase student achievement and reducing the achievement gaps.
• Kathleen Cramer
  I am co-principal investigator for the Rational Number Project, a cooperative research program to investigate teaching and learning of fractions and proportionality among elementary and middle school students.
• Tamara Moore
  I research problem solving, mathematical modeling, and teamwork. I look at ways to teach mathematics at the secondary and post-secondary level through realistic engineering contexts using authentic assessment tasks called Model-Eliciting Activities.
• Thomas Post
  I am currently principal investigator (PI) on a National Science Foundation (NSF) project to assess the impact of standards-based middle grades and secondary high school curricula on standardized assessment instruments, and, on college level mathematics achievement and course taking patterns.
• Terry Wyberg
  I teach method courses for pre-service teachers, teacher enhancement courses for in-service teacher, and conduct teacher training workshops for the NSF funded Minneapolis and St. Paul Areas Merging to Achieve Standards Project.

May 2006