Pre-service teachers’ understanding of the concept of numeracy

Pre-service teachers’ understanding of the concept of numeracy as a cross curricular subject in post – primary schools in Ireland

Abstract: At present, internationally and in Ireland, there is a conscious effort being made to improve and raise the profile of the teaching and learning of numeracy (DES 2011; Goos et al 2014; Bennison 2015; Askew 2015). Teachers' perceptions and interpretations of the concept of numeracy relies greatly on their understanding of numeracy. If teachers have a deep understanding of the concept of numeracy, and an awareness of the essential role it plays in allowing an individual to fully engage in society, then the inclusion of the teaching and learning of numeracy will play a more significant role within their subject(s).
The purpose of this study is to assess current pre-service teachers understanding of the concept of numeracy as a cross curricular subject and to identify and quantify the package of knowledge required by pre-service teachers to integrate numeracy into their lessons. This study will be carried out in three universities in Ireland with second year Professional Masters in Education students.

Investigators/ Researchers: Dr Niamh O’ Meara (Principal Investigator), Professor Merrilyn Goos, Professor Paul Conway, Ms Kathy O’ Sullivan
Commencement Date: September 2016
End Date: June 2020