Project Nova

Enhanced Mathematics Teaching and Learning for

Preservice Elementary Teachers

Project Goals

  • The purpose of this project is to improve the content knowledge and attitudes toward mathematics and science of preservice elementary teachers. We will implement a new course and the major revision of a second to attain these goals.

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    Contents

  • Principle Investigators

    Advisory Team

     NASA Strategic Enterprise Connections

     Project Description

    MA262: Math for Elementary Teachers II

    MA142: The Language of Mathematics

    Pictures

    Project Nova Home Page

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    Principle Investigators

  • Jean Johnson, Baker University, Mathematics: Baldwin City, KS

    Merrie Skaggs, Baker University, Education: Baldwin City, KS

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    Advisory Team

  • Brian "Chip" Anderson, Central Junior High: Lawrence, KS

    Keith Ashman, Baker University, Physics: Baldwin City, KS

    Amy Berg, Baldwin Elementary School: Baldwin City, KS

    Deb Ehling-Gwin, Baldwin Elementary School: Baldwin City, KS

    Marie Gardner, Anderson County High School: Garnett, KS

    Kyleigh Gragg, Baker University, Student: Baldwin City, KS

    Bob Hipple, Baker University, Enviromental Science: Baldwin City, KS

    Mircea Martin, Baker University, Mathematics: Baldwin City, KS

    Charlene Potter, Marion Springs Elementary School: Baldwin City, KS

    NASA Strategic Enterprise Connections

  • Two of NASA's Strategic Enterprises fit into our plans. Elementary school teachers are required to be generalists since they are responsible for teaching so many varied subjects. Consequently they must teach both physical and biological science as well as mathematics. Thematic teaching is often utilized in elementary classrooms as an appropriate way to present mew learning in a more relevant, holistic, and meaningful manner. Using the theme "Investigating the Universe," the two courses will incorporate applications from both the Space Science Enterprise and the Earth Science Enterprise.

    Examples of some of the space science concepts that will be covered include the rotation of the earth about its axis, which causes night and day; the tilt of the earth's rotation axis relative to its orbital plane, which results in the seasons; and the relative sizes of the planets and their relative distances from the sun. Activities from NASA and NCTM's jointly prepared materials Mission Mathematics (1997) will contribute to these courses.

    Focusing on earth science concepts will bring the investigation idea a little closer to home. Areas of study include management of the environment and natural resources, which require continuous use of mathematics.

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  • Project Description | MA 262: Math for Elementary Teacher II | MA 142: The Language of Mathematics