Observing Today's Mathematics Classroom

This four-session module provides administrators with the opportunity to develop an "eye" for Standards-based elementary mathematics classrooms through watching and discussing videotapes of classrooms in transition. Participants' own mathematical investigations inform their thinking about the mathematics classes in which they observe. Special attention is given to how teachers interact with children to facilitate the development of their mathematical thinking. Participants are also asked to consider what approaches to post-observation conferences with teachers might be most constructive, given that teachers are active constructors of their own knowledge about mathematics, learning and teaching.