Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/2925
Title: The beliefs and practices of Form 1 Mathematics teachers
Authors: Agius, Sarah Jane
Busuttil, Marilyn
Keywords: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Malta -- Evaluation
Teachers -- Attitudes
Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Malta
Issue Date: 2010
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the beliefs and practices of a group of Form 1 mathematics teachers in a Boys' Secondary School. Opting for a qualitative research methodology, we established teachers' practices through classroom observations and pertinent documents. Semi-structured interviews conducted with the teachers permitted us gain further insights into their beliefs and practices and to engage them in discussions about any possible tensions between their beliefs and practices. This study suggests that, even though teachers try to put their beliefs into practice, there are several factors that work against actually having a strong relationship between the two. The more salient inhibiting factors being the vast syllabus, teaching for examination and students' perceptions of tasks and activities carried out in class. Another important finding was that teachers tend to believe that students' negative attitude towards learning and their lack of motivation are detrimental to teaching and learning in class. Moreover, teachers attribute their knowledge about teaching to their experiences in class, rather than to their pre-service training. With reference to these findings, we would like to stress that they cannot be generalised to contexts dissimilar to the one described in this research. We conclude the study with a number of implications for the teaching of mathematics in Malta.
Description: B.ED. (HONS)
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar//handle/123456789/2925
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - FacEdu - 2010

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