Improving Learning in Mathematics: Challenges and Strategies

This Standards Unit: Improving Learning in Mathematics book explains the underlying principles behind the development of the 'Active Learning' approaches in the materials. The Standards Unit: Improving Learning in Mathematics resources were produced as a response to the Smith report. The resources use "Active learning" approaches for post-16 mathematics. The resources, and the work of the Standards Unit with leading maths experts in the country, were part of the Department for Education and Skills' response to the Smith Report and offer practical and effective ways to improve learning in mathematics. The resources were developed from the work of Susan Wall, a Gatsby fellow working at Wilberforce College, Hull and Dr Malcolm Swan from Nottingham University. The underlying principles to Malcolm's and Susan's approaches are identical, and built on research evidence of the last 30-40 years, which suggests that learning mathematics is far more successful if learners are actively engaged, encouraged to think mathematically and to see links and connections. They also accord with the findings of the Inspectorate, in relation to good practice. The book covers: * The purpose of the resources * Some underlying principles * Getting started * The types of activity * Planning to use sessions discussion * Some frequently asked questions