A National Effort to Integrate Field Experiences Into Secondary Mathematics Methods Courses

Abstract

This chapter shares the experience and preliminary findings from a national collaboration to improve secondary mathematics teacher preparation programs in the United States. Specifically, the chapter focuses on a research group tasked with strengthening field experiences into methods courses. Two modules are shared that a group of methods instructors have developed and are implementing in their courses. Findings from the first module are explained with implications for continued module development. These findings show the impact of the module on mentor teachers as well as the benefit the module has demonstrated in relation to the preservice teacher-mentor teacher relationship. Challenges and lessons learned from this national effort are also included.