CAS/GSE Teaching and Learning Workshops
Overview
GMU Mathematics and Science faculty volunteers are attending a year-long workshop in teaching and learning. They are investigating research supported for use in their classes to actively engage students.
Among these strategies are:
- Cooperative learning
- Informal assessment of student understanding
- Questioning strategies
- Multi-sensory learning
- Rubrics and alternative assessment
Faculty members explore the national and Virginia State Standards of Learning (SOL) and the recent Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). They conduct peer observations and visiting high school classes. At the heart of the program is the art of "reflective practice".
Goals
The workshops are designed to heighten effective university mathematics and science instruction. Faculty participants strive to model "best practices" in mathematics and science to all their students, but particularly to lower division classes where many perspective teachers are.
Research
Extensive research is in process on the CAS/GSE program utilizing a variety of instruments which include: Instructional Strategies Questionnaire; Classroom Learning Environment Survey; Stages of Concern, and Teaching Strategies Self-analysis.