Teachers Share Their Mathematics Backgrounds: Telling It Like It Was

Abstract

This study focused on the mathematics backgrounds of 45 elementary mathematics teachers. A survey was administered which asked teachers to reflect on their elementary, secondary, and college mathematics experiences, the support they received and the confidence they have with their ability to teach elementary mathematics. Quantitative and qualitative data derived from the survey, revealed that sharing mathematics knowledge in elementary school; committed, enthusiastic teachers in high school; parental support; and practical uses of mathematics were positive influences for these teachers. Rote drill, seatwork, and ability grouping were negative influences. The majority of the teachers felt inservice staff development experiences helped make them confident teachers of elementary mathematics. The implications of the study for mathematics education are discussed.