Mathematics University of South Carolina

Overview

The Mathematics MAT program from University of South Carolina offers:

• Knowledge of Problem Solving. Candidates know, understand and apply the process of mathematical problem solving.
• Knowledge of Reasoning and Proof. Candidates reason, construct, and evaluate mathematical arguments and develop an appreciation for mathematical rigor and inquiry.
• Knowledge of Mathematical Communication. Candidates communicate their mathematical thinking orally and in writing to peers, faculty and others.
• Knowledge of Mathematical Connections. Candidates recognize, use, and make connections between and among mathematical ideas and in contexts outside mathematics to build mathematical understanding.

• Knowledge of Mathematical Representation. Candidates use varied representations of mathematical ideas to support and deepen students’ mathematical understanding.

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of Technology. Candidates embrace technology as an essential tool for teaching and learning mathematics.
• Dispositions. Candidates support a positive disposition toward mathematical processes and mathematical learning.
• Knowledge of Mathematics Pedagogy. Candidates possess a deep understanding of how students learn mathematics and of the pedagogical knowledge specific to mathematics teaching and learning.
• Knowledge of Number and Operations. Candidates demonstrate computational proficiency, including a conceptual understanding of numbers, ways of representing number, relationships among number and number systems, and the meaning of operations.
• Knowledge of Different Perspectives on Algebra. Candidates emphasize relationships among quantities including functions, ways of representing mathematical relationships, and the analysis of change.
• Knowledge of Geometries. Candidates use spatial visualization and geometric modeling to explore and analyze geometric shapes, structures, and their properties.
• Knowledge of Calculus. Candidates demonstrate a conceptual understanding of limit, continuity, differentiation, and integration and a thorough background in techniques and application of the calculus.
• Knowledge of Discrete Mathematics. Candidates apply the fundamental ideas of discrete mathematics in the formulation and solution of problems.
• Knowledge of Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability. Candidates demonstrate an understanding of concepts and practices related to data analysis, statistics, and probability.
• Knowledge of Measurement. Candidates apply and use measurement concepts and tools.
• Field-Based Experiences: Engage in a sequence of planned opportunities prior to student teaching that includes observing and participating secondary mathematics classrooms under the supervision of experienced and highly qualified teachers.
• Field-Based Experiences: Experience full-time student teaching secondary-level mathematics that is supervised by an experienced and highly qualified teacher and a university or college supervisor with elementary mathematics teaching experience.
• Field-Based Experiences: Demonstrate the ability to increase students’ knowledge of mathematics.