Mathematics Education
Is this course for me?
The course is suited to mathematics educators at all levels of the education system, but particularly second level teachers. It is also for other suitably qualified professionals working in the area of mathematics education, training and support. The course is rooted in practical experience while emphasising the theoretical study of education. Overall the strand aims to integrate theory with practice and is intended for practitioners who wish to gain a comprehensive and contemporary understanding of mathematics education through a research-based programme.
Course Structure
The programme has taught and research components and may be taken on a one year full-time basis or on a two or three year part-time basis.
The taught component includes four modules each including 25 hours of direct contact time.
The research component involves carrying out a research project and completing a dissertation under the guidance of a supervisor.
Course Modules
- Examine the philosophy of mathematics education and explore learning theories in teacher education and models of teacher knowledge in the classroom.
Module 1 | Studies in Mathematics Education
- Appraise theories of geometry or proposals seeking to improve the effectiveness of teaching and learning in geometry.
Module 2 | Geometry and Trigonometry
- Explore emerging best practices and developments in teaching and learning mathematics.
Module 3 | Best Practices in Mathematics Education
- Investigate frontier research as well as the most pressing topics and concerns in the field.
Module 4 | Frontier Research and Current Debates in STEM Education
Testimonials
I have been a mathematics teacher in India for the past 19 years and have always been very interested in the field of education. It was a great opportunity for me to be selected as a part of the class of 2017-18 for the M.Ed. in Mathematics Education in TCD. The nature of this research-based masters helped me hone my skills and enhance my understanding of areas that impact students' learning. The curriculum of the course was inclusive to suit the needs and interests of international students. The way the course was taught by experienced professors created a very stimulating learning environment throughout. The modules were very engaging and worthwhile with excellent content, along with enlightening workshops on pedagogical methods. For my research thesis, I was constantly supported and guided by my supervisor. I am very happy with the journey I've experienced and the skills that I've learned in the process.
FAQs
Q: What is the aim of the course?
A: Overall the course aims to integrate theory with practice and enable students to gain a comprehensive and contemporary understanding of mathematics education through a research-based programme.
Q: Is the course suitable for international students?
A: Yes, we welcome students from all over the world. This is an important aspect of the course as it enables students to learn from each other and share international best practices in mathematics education.
Q: I am currently in a full time teaching position in Ireland. Is it possible to combine this with the M.Ed. in Mathematics Education?
A: Yes, the majority of our students are full-time teachers. All of the lectures are timetabled in the evening time (one evening per week) or in the school mid-term breaks (October and February).
Q: I am worried that my mathematical content knowledge will not be strong enough?
A: The course is primarily a mathematics education course with a focus on current research and best practices in the field. While the 'Geometry and Trigonometry' module is content focused, the overall aim of the module is still concerned with improving the effectiveness of teaching and learning in the domain. This is reflected in the module's mode of assessment where students are asked to complete an essay and develop a portfolio of electronic resources for teaching.
Q: I would like to find out more information about the course…. who do I contact?
A: Please contact Dr Mark Prendergast via email at mark.prendergast@tcd.ie or via phone at 01-8964855 and he would be delighted to discuss further.