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1
Tshithigona, Gaus. "An investigation into teaching mathematics using a visualisation approach to recontextualise indigenous knowledge." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62461.
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It can be argued that the Namibian curriculum is largely influenced by a Western epistemology. However, many studies suggest that learners make powerful meanings of mathematical concepts they are learning if they visualise these and experience them in relation to what they already know from their own cultural backgrounds. According to the Namibian National Curriculum for Basic Education (NNCBE, 2010), it is not only important for learners to acquire mathematical knowledge and skills, but also to develop and grow their identities, cultures and values as individuals. The aim of this study was to explore and investigate how selected mathematics teachers employ visualisation as a teaching approach to re-contextualise indigenous knowledge (IK). The study set out to explore how conceptual understanding is enhanced by participation in an intervention programme. The use of visualisation is considered an important mediating and pedagogical tool in the mathematics classroom to enhance the mathematics learning of learners. The research is informed by a socio-cultural theory of learning and is located within an interpretive paradigm. The study was conducted at four schools in the Oshana region of Namibia and involved four mathematics teachers who were purposefully selected due to their willingness to use visualisation-IK approaches in their teaching, based on their responses to the survey. The methodologies used are qualitative and quantitative case study. To gather data, document analysis, a survey, lesson observations and focus group interviews were used. The study found that most teachers in the Oshana region have an understanding of the effective use of visualisation-IK approaches. However, the study revealed that visualisation- IK approaches are mostly used in grades 4 to 7 mathematics classrooms. It also discovered that most of the visualisation approaches that teachers employed aligned well with the curriculum and promoted conceptual understanding in the teaching of mathematics. The results of the study showed that teachers have experience of the enabling and constraining factors in using a visualisation-IK approach to teaching mathematics.
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Luwango, Luiya. "Critical reflective teaching practice in three mathematics teachers." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003366.
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This qualitative study reports on critical reflective teaching by three mathematics teachers and how it shapes their classroom practice. The study was carried out in three secondary schools in Rundu in northern Namibia. The study employed a case study method. The selection of teachers was based on their rich practical professional knowledge and exemplary teaching practices. Data collection and analysis was done through an interpretive approach. Interviews and document analyses were the two research tools used, not only for the collection of data but for triangulation also. Interpretations of the findings were validated through member checking. Critical reflective teaching involves thought and action, and it raises teachers’ consciousness of what they do. Through critical reflective practice, teachers scrutinize their beliefs and knowledge of the subject and their practice. Furthermore critical reflective practice may get teachers into a disposition to find alternatives to improve their teaching. In this study, the findings are that participants reflect extensively on their classroom practice. The teachers pointed out that reflection on practice enables them to analyse and evaluate their teaching in line with effective mathematics teaching. They emphasised that critical reflection leads to the identification of weaknesses in teachers’ classroom practice. This culminates in better planning whereby alternative approaches to teaching are exercised. Because of its potential to improve teaching and enhance professional development it is therefore recommended that mathematics teachers be exposed to skills that enhance critical reflective teaching practice. Teachers need to familiarise themselves with the concept of critical reflective teaching in mathematics to meet the demands of superior quality teaching.
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Stephanus, Gervasius Hivengwa. "Exploring teaching proficiency in geometry of selected effective mathematics teachers in Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013012.
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Quality mathematics education relies on effective pedagogy which offers students appropriate and rich opportunities to develop their mathematical proficiency (MP) and intellectual autonomy in learning mathematics. This qualitative case study aimed to explore and analyse selected effective mathematics teachers' proficiency in the area of geometry in five secondary schools in five different Namibia educational regions. The sample was purposefully selected and comprised five mathematics teachers, identified locally as being effective practitioners by their peers, Education Ministry officials and the staff of the University of Namibia (UNAM). The schools where the selected teachers taught were all high performing Namibian schools in terms of students' mathematics performance in the annual national examinations. The general picture of students' poor performance in mathematics in Namibia is no different to other sub-Saharan countries and it is the teachers who unfortunately bear the brunt of the criticism. There are, however, beacons of excellence in Namibia and these often go unnoticed and are seldom written about. It is the purpose of this study to focus on these high achievers and analyse the practices of these teachers so that the rest of Namibia can learn from their practices and experience what is possible in the Namibian context. The mathematical content and context focus of this study was geometry. This qualitative study adopted a multiple case study approach and was framed within an interpretive paradigm. The data were collected through individual questionnaires, classroom lesson observations and in-depth open-ended and semi-structured interviews with the participating teachers. These interviews took the form of post lesson reflective and stimulated recall analysis sessions. An adapted framework based on the Kilpatrick, Swafford and Findell's (2001) five strands of teaching for MP was developed as a conceptual and analytical lens to analyse the selected teachers' practice. The developed coding and the descriptive narrative vignettes of their teaching enabled a qualitative analysis of what teachers said contributed to their effectiveness and how they developed MP in students. An enactivist theoretical lens was used to complement the Kilpatrick et al.'s (2001) analytical framework. This enabled a deeper analysis of teacher teaching practice in terms of their embodied mathematical knowledge, actions and interactions with students. procedural fluency (PF) and productive disposition (PD), were addressed regularly by all five participating teachers. Evidence of addressing either the development of students' strategic competence (SC) or adaptive reasoning (AR) appeared rarely. Of particular interest in this study was that the strand of PD was the glue that held the other four strands of MP together. PD was manifested in many different ways in varying degrees. PD was characterised by a high level of content knowledge, rich personal experience, sustained commitment, effective and careful preparation for lessons, high expectations of themselves and learners, collegiality, passion for mathematics and an excellent work ethic. In addition, the teachers' geometry teaching practices were characterised by making use of real-world connections, manipulatives and representations, encouraging a collaborative approach and working together to show that geometry constituted a bridge between the concrete and abstract. The findings of the study have led me, the author, to suggest a ten (10) principles framework and seven (7) key interrelated factors for effective teaching, as a practical guide for teachers. This study argues that the instructional practices enacted by the participating teachers, who were perceived to be effective, aligned well with practices informed by the five strands of the Kilpatrick et al.'s (2001) model and the four concepts of autopoesis, co-emergence, structural determinism and embodiment of the enactivist approach. The study concludes with recommendations for effective pedagogical practices in the teaching of geometry, and opportunities for further research.
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Simanga, Elizabeth Miyaze. "Teaching struggling adolescent readers in Namibia : a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005639.
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Though research has been conducted on many issues since Namibia's independence in 1990, none of these studies has investigated how English Second Language (ESL) teachers teach and support struggling adolescent readers (SARs) to read. Utilising qualitative research techniques such as classroom observations, semi-structured interviews and document analysis, this case study looked at strategies, methods, and resources used by five ESL secondary school teachers to teach SARs to read in two regions in Namibia, Caprivi and Otjozondjupa regions. Two of the five participants were male teachers. The presence of SARs in the classes observed was established by using informal methods such as the ESL teachers' experience (Caprivi region), while a sample of questions from PIRLS 2001 (Mullis, Martin, Gonzalez, & Kennedy (2003) was compiled to form a test used in the Otjozondjupa region. The findings show that despite undergoing initial teacher training and majoring in English, the five ESL secondary school teachers were not trained to teach SARs either how to read or how to support them. In addition, the study found that there was a shortage of reading materials in all five selected schools.
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Alleyn, Suzanne. "Learning the language of mathematics." Thesis, McGill University, 2004. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=81477.
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In this thesis, I describe how interactive journal writing was used to improve the understanding of mathematics, and to foster communication with two groups of remedial grade ten students. Mathematics is a gatekeeper course in high school, and students who are not successful with this subject are at a distinct disadvantage, both in terms of their education and in their future careers. A persistent source of difficulty for these students is related to language; students often struggle both to understand what is being taught, and how to explain concepts or problem solutions in their own words. Interactive journal writing was initiated as a means of addressing this situation, and of meeting the objectives proposed by the Quebec Education Plan, which specifies three closely related competencies: (1) solve situational problems; (2) use mathematical reasoning; (3) and communicate by using mathematical language. There is ample proof in the research literature that communication plays an important role in supporting learners by helping them clarify, refine and consolidate their thinking.This study demonstrates the importance of allowing and encouraging students to use writing as part of their learning processes. By writing about what they are being taught, students are forced to slow down, examine and reflect on the steps they use to solve problems. Sharing what they write promotes meaningful dialogue and personal engagement, essential ingredients of successful learning.
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Shepherd, Kathleen Kay. "The Influence of the College Environment on Community College Remedial Mathematics Instructors' Use of Best Practices in Remedial Mathematics." University of Toledo / OhioLINK, 2016. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1451683545.
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Kapenda, Loide Ndakondjelwa. "The teaching of mathematics in multigrade classrooms at the upper primary phase in selected Namibian schools." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003681.
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The Namibian curriculum favours knowledge with understanding and application of knowledge and skills, because facts that are learned with understanding are easier to remember. This made learners to be able to represent mathematical situations in different ways and for different purposes. It also motivates teachers to contextualise the content to make mathematics teaching and learning more interesting and enjoyable to teachers and learners. However, some mathematics teachers are challenged by being required to teach multigrade classes, due to a massive response to improved access to education.Multigrade teaching is seen as a difficult practice especially when teachers are not well prepared to teach combined grades. This case study focused on the teaching of mathematics at Upper Primary Phase. An Interpretive paradigm was used to understand the teachers’ experiences and their teaching ethods. Hence the study aimed to investigate how teachers deliver their mathematics lessons in multigrade classrooms, considering the good practices and challenges that may occur. The findings revealed that teachers mostly use their monograde pedagogical knowledge,resulting in using quasi-monograde with a common timetable approach when teaching mathematics in multigrade settings. Although learners have access to the common mathematics syllabus, the quality of teaching the subject in multigrade classrooms seems to be affected due to the lack of teacher training in multigrade teaching. Also, equity and democracy need to be considered more than it currently is in terms of resource distribution to multigrade schools. Good practice of multigrade teaching existed in building on lower grade competencies, introducing lessons with common activities, as well as the concentration on lower grades which make learners independent. However, insufficient time, lack of knowledge in multigrade and curriculum knowledge in particular seem to challenge teachers and learners. Therefore, multigrade teachers need to be part of curriculum development for them to master the syllabus. These teachers will assist in developing multigrade resources for integration, contextualisation and more enrichment activities for high achievers.
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Amupolo, Loide M. "An investigation into the nature of mathematical connections selected grade 7 teachers make when teaching fractions : a Namibian case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016374.
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The general understanding of mathematics as a subject and its implications is, in reality alarmingly low. Evidence of this is evident in learners’ performance and their reaction towards the subject. Fractions as a domain of Mathematics are no exception. The majority of the learners do not learn Fractions comfortably. The causes of this may be varied. However, it is believed that one way of ensuring meaningful teaching and learning is to make use of appropriate connections. The significance and the important role of the teacher in making mathematical connections in learning for understanding are well documented in the literature. This study focuses on the nature of mathematical connections selected Grade 7 teachers make when teaching Fractions, as well as their perceptions of the importance of making such connections. This qualitative case study was conducted in three schools in the Oshana region. The purpose was to investigate how mathematics teachers make connections in fractions. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, the study made use of observations and interviews to generate data. The framework borrowed from Businkas’ (2008) study was used in analysing and coding the nature of connections used in the lessons observed. An individual conversation on the nature and perceptions of the connections made in the observed lessons was undertaken with each teacher followed by a focus group discussion that aimed at analysing deeper perceptions on connections. The main findings of the study revealed that teachers made use of all the different types of connections as per Businkas’s framework. The frequency of occurrence showed that Instruction-Oriented Connection and Multiple Representation connections topped the list of connections used. Teachers pointed out that connections to prior knowledge and making multiple representations were most significant, as they related to learners’ existing knowledge and pointed to different ways of solving a problem. The teachers were, however, not familiar with the other connections identified as this was their first experience of interrogating connections. They, however, agreed on the importance of making those connections. The teachers agreed that meaningful connections indeed helped with their conceptual understanding of Mathematics. They believed that connections can increase learners’ interest in school and help reduce negative views of fractions, in particular, and mathematics in general. However, they felt that the limited number of resources, poor teaching approaches and the inability of creating fraction sense may hinder them from making appropriate connections.
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Snead, Cynthia. "Development of computer graphics materials for teaching topics in informal geometry to high school remedial mathematics classes /." Access Digital Full Text version, 1987. http://pocketknowledge.tc.columbia.edu/home.php/bybib/10779334.
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Dongwi, Beata Lididimikeni. "Mathematics teachers' experiences of designing and implementing a circle geometry teaching programme using the van Hiele phases of instruction as a conceptual framework: a Namibian case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003133.
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The aim of this case study was to examine, analyze and report on the findings of the experiences of selected mathematics teachers when they used the van Hiele phases of instruction in designing and implementing a Grade 11 circle geometry teaching programme. The sample consisted of three selected mathematics teachers from the school where the researcher teaches. This school is located in the Oshikoto Education Region in Namibia. The school serves a multicultural group of 759 learners from a middle-class economic background. The site and participants were selected conveniently as the researcher had unrestricted access to both the facilities and the participants. This research takes the form of a case study and is underpinned by the interpretive paradigm. Data for this research was collected using a variety of techniques such as interviews, classroom observation and document analysis. This facilitated easy triangulation of the data. The findings of this research make four claims with regard to the experiences of the mathematics teachers with designing and implementing the circle geometry teaching programme using the five van Hiele phases of instruction as a conceptual framework. The findings revealed that firstly, all three participating mathematics teachers used and implemented all the five van Hiele phases of instruction in their lessons I observed. Secondly, the teachers navigated quite freely from one phase of instruction to the next, but also returned to the earlier phases for clarification and reinforcement in their teaching. Thirdly, the teachers saw the phases of instruction as a good pedagogical tool or template for planning and presenting lessons. Fourthly, the majority of the learners followed the instructions and seemed to obtain the answers faster than expected. The lesson presentations were lively and both teachers and learners communicated at length to discover angle properties of circles while developing and nurturing the technical language of geometry.
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Hamukwaya, Shemunyenge Taleiko. "An investigation into parental involvements in the learning of mathematics : a case study involving grade 5 San learners and their parents." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003480.
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The purpose of this study was to investigate and document parental involvement in a San community in Namibia over a period of two months. The emphasis was to investigate whether San parents in the Omusati region were involved in the learning of mathematics of their children. The learner participants were selected according to those who were open to sharing their ideas. An interpretive approach was used to collect and analyse data. The collected data was gathered from 9 participants (4 learners in grade 5 together with their parents, plus their mathematics teacher). Semi-structured interviews, parental contributions and home visit observations were the three tools that I used to collect data. The selected school is located in a rural area in the Omusati region of northern Namibia. The interviews were conducted in Oshiwambo (the participants‟ mother tongue) and translated into English and then analyzed. I discovered that the selected San parents were involved in some but limited school activities. The findings of this study emphasizes that illiteracy may be one of the contributing factors of low or non-involvement of parents among the San community. Other factors which I found caused parents not to assist their children with homework was parents spending much of their time at the local cuca shops during the day until late in the evenings. The study also highlights possible strategies that can be carried out by teachers to encourage parental involvement in school activities.
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Iipinge, Reginald Kaleke. "An investigation into the perceptions of the first year mathematics students towards the alternative mode intervention : UNAM case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015669.
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A number of tertiary institutions offer bridging courses and intervention programmes in order to increase the number of students performing well in first year mathematics. At the university of Namibia, the science faculty provides educational opportunities to students who have not met the requirements to proceed with MAT 3511 (Basic Math). Unfortunately, the majority of students are not able to cope with the first year modules in Mathematics and the pass rates are unacceptably low. In the interest of supporting students, the University was prompted to introduce a two mode intervention programme in first year mathematics, namely: the normal mode and the alternative mode intervention. The alternative mode intervention was designed to improve the mathematics achievement of first year students who are considered low achieving or at risk of failure. This programme involves the identification of the lowest attainers in first year mathematics, and the provision of professional and faculty trained tutors and individualized teaching to these students in order to advance them to a level at which they are likely to learn successfully in a normal mode system. This research explores the experience and perceptions of first year students on the alternative mode, in particular as it relates to mathematical strands of proficiency. A second step was to explore how teaching contributes to the learning of mathematics on the intervention programme. The empirical investigation was done in 4 phases. A questionnaire on mathematics teaching and learning was given to the students during the first phase. During the second phase, two focus group discussions were conducted. Thereafter four interviews were carried out with lecturers, and finally tutorial and lecture observation were conducted. An analysis of these findings led to the identification of the students’ experiences on the alternative mode. Analysis of the results indicate that the students identified mathematical proficiency as the central element to their learning, and pedagogical knowledge and exploratory talk were critical aspects of good teaching in the mathematical intervention programme.
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Simasiku, Bosman Muyubano. "Student teachers' experiences in using multiple representations in the teaching of grade 6 proportion word problems : a Namibian case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001703.
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This study investigated the experiences of four participating student teachers in using multiple representative approaches in the teaching of Grade 6 proportion word problems. The multiple representative approaches include the Between Comparison Method, the Within Comparison Method, the Diagrammatic Method, the Table Method, the Graph Method, the Cross-product Method, and the Oral Informal Method. An intervention programme was organised, using workshops where student teachers were prepared to teach Grade 6 proportion word problems using multiple representative approaches. The teaching practice lessons of the four participating student teachers in two primary schools were video recorded, and the focus group interview was conducted at the University Campus. With the exception of the Graph Method and the Cross-product Method, it was revealed that the multiple representative approaches were generally effective in the teaching of Grade 6 proportion word problems. The study further revealed that multiplicative relationships can be explored through using the different individual representative approaches. The study argues that the cross-product method is not the only way to teach Grade 6 proportion word problems. There are multiple representative approaches that should be used in conjunction with each other to enhance the teaching of proportion word problems. Furthermore, this study revealed that a number of challenges were encountered when using multiple representative approaches. The challenges include difficulties with the English language, different and unique abilities of the learners, lack of plotting skills and the lack of proficiency in the learners’ multiplication and division skills. This study made recommendations on the integration of multiple representative approaches in the mathematics education curriculum and textbooks. It further recommended that in-service workshops for teachers and student teachers on the integration of multiple representative approaches in the teaching of Grade 6 proportion word problems should be initiated.
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Branum, Barbara K. (Barbara Kay). "Performance on Selected Mathematics and Reading Assessment Tests as Predictors of Achievement in Remedial Mathematics." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1990. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332173/.
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The problem of this study was performance on selected mathematics and reading assessment tests as predictors of achievement in remedial mathematics. The purpose of the study was twofold. The first was to determine the internal consistency of a locally developed remedial mathematics placement test and the mathematics section of the Pre-TASP Test. The second was to determine the predictive validity of performance on (a) the local remedial mathematics placement test, (b) the mathematics section of the Pre-TASP Test, and (c) the Descriptive Tests of Language Skills, Reading Comprehension Test in combination with demographic variables for mid-semester achievement, end-of-semester achievement, and course success in three levels of remedial mathematics at Richland College, Dallas, Texas.
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Schroeder, Sandra Davey. "The identification and description of changes in mathematics anxiety when remedial mathematics courses are taught using conceptual teaching methods." The Ohio State University, 1998. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1392313528.
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Henley, Elizabeth. "Engaging College Students in Online Remedial Mathematics Courses With Video Instruction." ScholarWorks, 2015. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/321.
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Many students entering college in the United States need assistance in at least one academic area, causing remedial courses to be commonplace in higher education. This study evaluated the impact of video instruction in learning the content found in an online remedial math course. The instructional videos were created using the guidelines of Universal Design and cognitive load theory. A quantitative, quasi-experimental method was used to evaluate a dataset made available by a regionally accredited private New England college's online division. The online division offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs and certifications, and the students are located all over the world. The dataset started with 203 participants, with 78 completing the first module, 36 completing the second module, and 17 completing the third module. Paired t tests revealed that while both text and video instruction improved the scores between the pre- and posttests, there was no statistically significant difference between those two groups. However, the end sample size was small, with many students not completing all three modules. This limited the interpretation to the results of the pre- and posttest scores of the first module only. These findings inform faculty teaching remedial online math courses, as well as course designers, seeking to improve these courses and increase the success rate for students passing the course. This has implications for social change because student success in these remedial math courses may in turn increase persistence, retention and graduation.
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Mutuku, Elizabeth. "Understanding the differences in marking performance of JSC mathematics markers in Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015223.
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Education reform in Namibia brought about changes to mathematics education since independence. This has put pressure on the government to provide both resources and qualified mathematics teachers to help drive the reform process in all teaching and learning activities. This included availing reliable and valid national examination results which is a measure of whether the newly introduced programmes are working or not. For the Ministry of Education this meant training more mathematics teachers and ensuring that competent and reliable teachers are appointed for marking national examination every year. The teachers' training process however, has not been going as fast as it was expected and year after year the Directorate of National Examinations and Assessment experienced problems in obtaining competent teachers for the marking of national examination. The purpose of the study was to understand the differences in marking performances of the JSC mathematics national examination markers. Particularly the study was to create a clear and detailed understanding of different factors that could possibly affect the marking performance of different markers. In addition, the study was to investigate the effect the mathematical content knowledge of the markers has on their marking performance. It was evident from the findings that their mathematical content knowledge had influenced their marking performance. Moreover the research findings also gave a strong indication that there are other factors that were influencing the markers marking performance. These were the markers' knowledge of the assessment and marking process, the markers' marking experience, the markers' socioeconomic background. The difference in their moderators' input has emerged as the other factors that have influenced their performance in marking and consequently contributed to the differences in their marking performances.
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Kanyanda, Ester Ndahekomwenyo. "An investigation into the nature of mathematics connections used by selected Grade 11 teachers when teaching algebra : a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017347.
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the nature of mathematical connections used by selected teachers when teaching the topic of algebra and to investigate their perceptions of their use of connections. The participants were selected on the basis of teaching experience as well as their willingness to share their ideas. An interpretive paradigm was used to collect and analyse data. The data was collected from three participating teachers. These participants were selected from the three secondary schools in the town of Tsumeb in Namibia. I used video recordings of two lessons per teacher as well as semi-structured interviews as my tools to gather data. After the two lessons were video recorded, I conducted a workshop with the teachers to introduce them to the 5 types of mathematical connections pertinent to this study. We analysed the videos together using Businskas' framework as a basis for analysis. This then formed part of the stimulated recall interviews. It was found that, even though teachers were not aware of the concept of mathematical connections before our interactions, there was strong evidence of connections being made and used in their lessons. The two types of connections that were used most frequently (24.1 percent each) were procedural and instruction-oriented connections respectively. Part-whole relationships connections were used the least with a frequency of 12 percent. All three teachers agreed that they needed to make more connections when teaching and that they would think more about connections in future, particularly when preparing their lessons. The study makes recommendations to encourage the continuous use of connections in teaching mathematics.
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郭悦生 and Yuet-sang Kwok. "Helping an autistic student to use money in daily life: a case study." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2002. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31256624.
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Marongwe, Anesu Desmond. "An enquiry into the formative and summative assessment procedures, and perceptions thereof, of grade 10 mathematics teachers : a Namibian case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001513.
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The purpose of this study was to gain insight into observed discrepancies between continuous assessment and final examination average marks in Grade 10 Mathematics in the Oshikoto region of Namibia. The study is framed as a case study and is grounded within the interpretive paradigm. A mixed methods approach was applied, eliciting both quantitative as well as qualitative data. The study took place in two phases. In Phase 1, continuous assessment and Grade 10 final examination average marks for 62 Junior Secondary Schools for the period 2008-2010 were gathered and analyzed. Schools were characterized in terms of the relationship between their continuous assessment and final examination average marks for each of the three years. Phase 2, which was informed by Phase 1, took the form of structured interviews with a sample of three Mathematics teachers and three principals along with a focus-group interview of twelve teachers in order to investigate more deeply the perceptions of teachers and principals toward assessment policy and practice. The study shows that Grade 10 assessment practice in Namibian schools is far from ideal. Many teachers are not fully conversant with the various continuous assessment components as outlined by policy, and teachers are not confident about setting appropriate continuous assessment tasks. There is a strong perception that continuous assessment marks can easily be inflated and those teachers who gave high continuous assessment marks to their learners were generally perceived as being either incompetent or dishonest. While continuous assessment was seen as an important component of teaching and learning, it is evident that teachers and principals would welcome greater clarity, along with standardization and moderation, with respect to continuous assessment practice.
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Ausiku, Charity M. "An investigation into the persistence of traditional teaching methods in grade 9 mathematics classrooms in Rundu : a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004461.
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I embarked upon this study to investigate mathematics teachers' practices that have led to the persistence of traditional teaching methods in grade 9 mathematics classrooms in Rundu. The study was conducted from a learner-centred (L-C) perspective or reform approach in the Namibian context. It is a qualitative study oriented in the interpretive paradigm- a paradigm that seeks to understand the meanings attached to human actions. The participants involved in this study were purposively selected and they are composed of two mathematics teachers and their grade 9 learners. This study was conducted at two schools in Rundu. One is an urban school while the other one is a rural school on the outskirts of Rundu. The research tools employed in this study are questionnaires, interviews and observations. The questionnaires were used to identify and select my participants while the observations were used to investigate the participants teaching strategies. The purpose of the interviews was mainly to investigate teachers' understanding, interpretation and implementation of learner-centre education (LCE). Amongst other findings, this study reveals that inadequate teacher-training, controversial educational policies and challenges such as overcrowdedness in mathematics classrooms, lack of teaching and learning materials, lack of cooperation among mathematics teachers and learners' negative attitude towards mathematics are some of the contributing factors to the persistence of traditional teaching methods in mathematics classrooms. Moreover, the study reveals that the persistence of traditional teaching methods in mathematics classes can no longer be attributed to the lack of understanding of LCE. The teachers in this study seem to be well acquainted with the theoretical aspect of the LCE framework while the implementation aspect seems to be a concern.
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Kruger, H. J. M. "Research portfolio." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005629.
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Paper 1. The purpose of this analysis is to critically evaluate the Lower Primary Mathematics programme within the context of the Namibian educational reform, against the backdrop of learner-centred education from within the Constructivist epistemology. Through the analysis of a small-scale survey, I will try to determine the extent to which learners, teachers and other educationalists, involved in the Lower Primary school phase, understand the new approach to Mathematics and their pedagogical and theoretical insight into the new programme. I will also analyse the syllabus documents in view of the educational policies and further discuss the social, historical and economic background to the reform. I will then analyse the progress or development of the reform process through discussing the learning environment as well as the learners who are the central participants in education. Paper 2.This critical discussion aims to explore the prospects and underlying principles of the epistemologies of two opposing paradigms of education: Behaviourism and Constructivism. I have critically examined and compared the theoretical aspects that shape and inform the model of instruction and the systemic implications of the learning process. The purpose was to compare both learning theories and to draw a conclusion of which the better epistemology is for the teaching and learning process. Paper 3. This is an investigation into the theories that underpin and inform mathematics teaching in the Lower Primary phase of the primary school in Namibia. The Namibian society requires the development of knowledge and understanding, skills and competencies, attitudes and values, which everyone must have to be able to function adequately in society on a social, economic and political level (MBESC 1996). We need to seek ways of enhancing mathematics teaching in Namibia if we want to live up to the expectations of our society. Paper 4. Mathematicians and researchers across the globe have theorised and speculated about education reform movements, which aim for more than just structural knowledge where it concerns Mathematics. This action research study is based on the findings of a pilot study about 'Problem-based Learning', using this as a basis to investigate the relationship between the intentions of the Lower Primary Mathematics curriculum and its implementation at classroom level. This paper reports on a case study of two grade one teachers' perceptions of problem solving as a key component of Mathematics learning and how the implementation of the problem-based approach could be supported through intervention. Data was gathered from a series of cycles of planning, acting, observing and reflecting. Analysis of the data indicates that teachers' professional development lies within a willingness to change and in reflexive practice. Given focused support to teachers could result in the application of contemporary approaches to Mathematics teaching, with an overall improvement of constructivist-oriented learner-centred education.
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Shapange, Ismael. "An investigation into the types of classroom tasks senior secondary school (grade 11 and 12) mathematics teachers give to their learners : a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017356.
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This interpretive case study was undertaken to investigate the nature of classroom tasks that teachers give to their learners and to gain insights into how they choose these tasks. It was carried out at two secondary schools in the Okahao circuit of the Omusati region in Namibia. The schools range from Grade 8 to Grade 12. This study focused mainly on teachers who teach Mathematics at senior secondary phase (Grade 11 and 12). The research participants were of four mathematics teachers – two from each school. The study was designed around two phases. Phase one consisted of video-recording of lessons, and phase two consisted of interviewing the teachers. The main purpose of the study was to ascertain the types and nature of tasks that teachers give to their learners and to gain insights into how they chose these tasks. The research adopted a combination of both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study revealed that the participating teachers provided a near equal amount of lower level cognitive tasks and higher level cognitive tasks. It further revealed several factors that influence teachers when selecting the types of tasks they give to their learners. These factors include curriculum requirements, types of learners and their experiences, and learners’ contexts.
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Haufiku, Amon. "An investigation of lower primary teachers' content knowledge of mathematics in Ohangwena region in Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003519.
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The poor performance in mathematics of learners in schools in Namibia, especially in the grades where learners sit for the national examinations, has been a concern of everybody. Since independence, the Ministry of Education in collaboration with several donor agencies has been aware of the poor performance in mathematics in the country. Several international and local studies have been made in an effort to identify the problems that are hindering learners’ performance in mathematics in Namibia. The findings of some studies that were conducted in the country such as the Southern Africa Consortium Monitoring Education Quality (2004), the Presidential Commission on Education, Culture and Training (1999), and the Mathematics and Science Teachers Extension Program (2002) revealed that the inadequate proficiency of primary teachers in mathematics content could be responsible for learners’ poor performance in mathematics. This study, therefore, is aimed at investigating the mathematical proficiency of lower primary (LP) teachers in Namibia. The study used three instruments to collect data namely, a profile questionnaire – to collect teachers’ demographic data, a proficiency test – to test their proficiency level of mathematics using the content of Grade 4 and 5 learners’ mathematics syllabi and a semi-structured interview schedule – to get views about their own mathematics content knowledge, attitudes towards mathematics as well as problems that hinder effective teaching and learning of mathematics at LP phase. The study was conducted with 30 lower primary teachers from five primary and combined schools in the Ohangwena circuit of the Ohangwena region. The study found out that: (1) the mathematical proficiency of LP teachers is below the Grade 7 Mathematics content. Most teachers are not able to solve the content of mathematics at upper primary (UP) phase. (2) LP education is receiving very little support from the Ministry compared to other phases. (3) There are no workshops or training courses organised for LP teachers. They do not receive enough textbooks and materials, their classrooms are overcrowded and teachers cannot pay attention to individual learners. (4) There is a dire need for LP Head of Departments (HODs) who are specialised at LP; most HODs for LP at schools are not specialised in this area. When it comes to views about future content of mathematics that should be given to LP teachers in Namibia, respondents recommended that future LP teachers should have knowledge of mathematics up to at least Grade 10 but preferably up to Grade 12. They do not want to be restricted to LP mathematics, but would like to have a broader knowledge of mathematics content. This would make them more confident in solving their children’s problems in mathematics. Overall, participants recognised the value of mathematics and the role that it plays in society.
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Barnes, Hayley. "A developmental case study implementing the theory of realistic mathematics education with low attainers /." Pretoria : [s.n.], 2004. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-12032004-103122/.
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Olivier, Patricia Joan. "Gender equity in mathematics education : the Namibian situation." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/51772.
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Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2000.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Gender inequity in mathematics performance is a global phenomenon. In both the developed and the developing world, females perform more poorly in mathematics than males at senior secondary school level. In Namibia, the situation is no exception. Examination results for the past few years have shown that males outperform females in mathematics at senior secondary school level. This has resulted in more males taking mathematics as a major subject at tertiary level, with the consequence that they subsequently find better jobs than females. For the purpose of this study, a literature research was done to investigate the factors that might influence the mathematics performance of females and males. The search did not show any significant biological differences between males and females that could explain the differences in performance. Several other factors were, however, identified to playa role in how females perform in mathematics. The factors identified were: interest in mathematics, a person's self-concept, mathematics anxiety, attitude towards mathematics, gender stereotyping, and the roles of the family and teachers. These factors were tested in the Namibian situation by means of a questionnaire that was given to Grade 12 students who do mathematics and it was found that: 1. males and females' attitudes towards mathematics differ significantly. Males seem to have a much more positive attitude towards mathematics; 2. Females experience mathematics anxiety at a higher level than males; 3. Gender stereotyping influences the mathematics performance of females more negatively than males' performance; Family members' influence contributes significantly to the poorer performance of females; 5. Interest in mathematics seems to be higher in males than in females; 6. Teacher influence does not seem to play a significant role in the mathematics performance of males and females. (This is in contrast with the results of the literature review.); and 7. There is no difference in the self-concept of Namibian males and females. To help make mathematics more appealing to girls, the first step is to recognise the disparities. Each person in a girl's circle of family, teachers, community and friends can begin, even before she reaches primary school, to hold high expectations of her and praise her performance. Sophisticated technology is increasingly significant to our nation's economic, political and social health. Almost every element of society - in fields as diverse as music, sports and agriculture - is being touched by technology. To prepare them for.these jobs, we must present science, engineering and mathematics as non-intimidating subjects to every student, so that they will feel encouraged to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for technical careers. As we increasingly become part of the global economy, we must engage the intellectual potential of all our young people.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geslagsongelykheid in wiskunde prestasies is a globale verskynsel. Daar is bevind dat meisies swakker doen as seuns in wiskunde in die senior sekondere skoolfase in beide die ontwikkelende sowel as die ontwikkelde lande. Namibia is geen uitsondering nie. Eksamenuitslae van die afgelope paar jare het gewys dat seuns baie beter vaar as meisies in wiskunde, spesifiek in die senior sekondere skoolfase. Dit het tot gevolg gehad dat meer seuns wiskunde neem as hoofvak na skool en dat hulle gevolglik beter werksgeleenthede as meisies kry. Vir die doel van hierdie studie is 'n Literatuurstudie gedoen om uit te vind watter faktore beinvloed die wiskunde prestasies van studente. Die literatuurstudie het geen noemenswaardige biologiese verskille tussen seuns en meisies uitgewys wat moontlik die verskil in prestasies kan verklaar nie. Verskeie ander faktore is egter geidentifiseer wat beslis 'n rol speel in wiskunde prestasies van meisies. Die faktore wat geidentifiseer was, is: belangstelling in wiskunde, 'n persoon se selfbeeld, wiskunde angs, 'n persoon se houding teenoor wiskunde, geslags stereotipes, die rol van die familie en onderwysers. Bogenoemde faktore is getoets in die Namibiese situasie by wyse van 'n vraelys wat uitgegee is vir graad 12 leerlinge wat wiskunde doen. Die resultate wat verkry is, is as volg: 1. Daar is 'n groot verskil tussen seuns en meisies se houding teenoor wiskunde. Dit wil voorkom as seuns se houding meer positief is as die van meisies; 2. Meisies ondervind wiskunde angs in 'n groter mate as seuns; 3. Geslagstereotipes het 'n negatiewe invloed op die wiskunde prestasies van meisies; 4. Familielede se invloed speel 'n groot rol in die swakker prestasies van meisies; 5. Seuns stel meer belang in wiskunde as meisies; 6. Dit blyk asof die invloed van onderwysers nie 'n noemenswaardige rol speel in die wiskunde prestasies van studente nie; Dit is teenstrydig met die bevindinge in die literatuurstudie. 7. Daar is geen verskil in die selfbeeld van meisies en seuns nie. Die eerste stap om wiskunde meer aantreklik vir meisies te maak, is om die dispariteit tussen seuns en meisies te erken. Elke persoon wat op enige manier met meisies in aanraking kom, hetsy familie, onderwysers, gemeenskap of vriende kan, selfs voorskool al, begin om hoë verwagtinge van hulle te koester en hulle te prys vir goeie prestasies. Gesofistikeerde tegnologie raak al hoe meer belangrik vir ons nasie se ekonomiese, politiese en sosiale welslae. Bykans elke sektor in ons gemeenskap, so divers soos musiek, sport en landbou, word geraak deur tegnologie. Die wetenskappe, ingenieurswese en wiskunde moet dus, sonder intimidasie, aan elke student aangebied word, om hulle sodoende aan te moedig om die nodige vaardighede te ontwikkel vir tegnies beroepe. Ons moet al ons jongmense se intellektuele potensiaal ten volle benut om in lyn te kom met die wereld ekonomie.
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Muyeghu, Augustinus. "The use of the van Hiele theory in investigating teaching strategies used by grade 10 geometry teachers in Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003703.
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This study reports on the extent to which selected mathematics teachers facilitate the teaching and learning of geometry at the van Hiele levels 1 and 2 at a Grade 10 level in selected schools in Namibia. It also addresses and explores the teaching strategies teachers employ in their classrooms. Kilpatrick et al.’s model for proficient teaching and the van Hiele model of geometric thinking were used to explore the type of teaching strategies employed by selected mathematics teachers. These two models served as guidelines from which interview and classroom observation protocols were developed. Given the continuing debate across the world about the learning and teaching of geometry, my thesis aims to contribute to a wider understanding of the teaching of geometry with regard to the van Hiele levels 1 and 2. There are no similar studies on the teaching of geometry in Namibia. My study concentrates on selected Grade 10 mathematics teachers and how they teach geometry using the van Hiele theory and the five Kilpatrick components of proficient teaching. As my research looks at teaching practice it was important to deconstruct teaching proficiency with a view to understanding what makes good teachers effective. The results from this study indicated that the selected Grade 10 mathematics teachers have a good conceptual understanding of geometry as all of them involved in this study were able to facilitate the learning and teaching of geometry that is consistent with the van Hiele levels 1 and 2.
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Ilukena, Alex Mbonabi. "A needs analysis for the implementation of a complementary course in mathematics education for teachers of mathematics in Namibia: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003560.
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After the introduction of the Basic Education Teacher Diploma (BETD) in Namibia, a number of studies were conducted on how teachers, lecturers, stakeholders and the Namibian public perceived the BETD program and its implementation. However, very few studies focussed specifically on mathematics subject content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge in the BETD. The purpose of this study was to investigate the need for a complementary course in mathematics education to address the lack of mathematical content and pedagogical knowledge in the Namibian BETD. The study involved five mathematics school teachers, two mathematics college lecturers in the Kavango educational region and a professor of mathematics education at the University of Namibia. These participants were purposefully selected because of their knowledge and experiences with various aspects of the BETD program. The motivation for conducting this study was to gain a better understanding of some of the issues that have been raised about the BETD program, particularly the perceived inadequacy of mathematical subject content and methodology since the inception of the program. The study adopts a qualitative approach in reporting participants’ reflections. The views of the focal educators and documents such as syllabi and course outlines were the main source of data. The findings indicate that despite the training that the three BETD mathematics graduates in this study received, the level of mathematics taught in a complementary course, such as an ACE, would clearly better equip mathematics teachers to teach proficiently and facilitate access to institutions of higher learning such as universities. The results of the study revealed that there was a need for the implementation of a complementary course to the BETD in mathematics education for teachers of mathematics in Namibia. This study also provided valuable insights into what such a course could look like.
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Mwandingi, Albertina Ndahambelela. "An investigation of Grade 11 learners' mathematical preparedness in a selected Namibian school: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003509.
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The proliferation in the number of schools offering junior secondary education in Namibia since independence in 1990 has led to an increase in the number of learners in the classroom and has created a wide range of mathematical proficiency among learners entering senior secondary education in grade 11. This broad range of basic mathematical ability among these learners, together with increasing classroom numbers has caused problems for the senior secondary mathematics teachers (Batchelor, 2004). The study shows that diagnostic testing can prove to be useful in assessing learners’ mathematical preparedness by identifying learners’ areas of weakness, which have hindered their mathematics learning and performance. Taking the results of a diagnostic test into consideration could help teachers cater for their learners who need remediation classes as early as possible before extending the mathematics curriculum. Setting and using diagnostic testing requires careful consideration; there are many pitfalls that are highlighted in this research. These include question coverage and general analysis of category totals.
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Neshuku, Christian N. "An exploration of problems experienced in the interpretation of word problems by grade 12 learners." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008206.
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This research sought to investigate the problems experienced in the interpretation of word problems by senior secondary school learners, in particular to see how the language used in the articulation of word problems affects the interpretation. The study was conducted in a school in the Oshikoto region of Namibia, a school located in a semi-rural area of Namibia, and selected owing to the accessibility of the required participants. The research was located within an interpretive paradigm focusing on a study sample of 40 learners from a specified class in the selected school. Data were collected through written tests and a semi-structured interview based on written tests, and a comprehensive descriptive analysis of test results was prepared. The findings of the study indicate that the language in which the word problem was articulated did not make a difference. The performance in both English and Oshindonga tests was almost the same. The findings also indicate that vocabulary, syntactic interpretation, semantic relationships, algebraic skills, and practical sense making in relation to real-life are all important for the successful interpretation and solving of word problems. In view of these findings, the study has provided valuable insights into aspects of the teacher education curriculum that need to be revisited in order to improve the training of teachers In teaching word problems.
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Junius, Daniel Franscius, and Danie Junius. "How do teachers characterise their teaching for conceptual understanding and procedural fluency?: a case study of two teachers." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001426.
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Over many years the practice or art of teaching Mathematics posed itself as, not only being different from the practice of teaching any other subject, but to have many challenges and opportunities that ask for exploration and understanding. Just after independence in 1990, Namibia has embarked upon a reform process for the entire education system. Many changes were brought about to create a uniform, equal system for all. However, many challenges still remain to be addressed. Mathematics education remains one of the key areas where Namibian teachers can contribute towards the improvement of the subject. Unsatisfactory results, under-qualified teachers, and a negative disposition towards Mathematics are some of the challenges. These challenges are not unique to Namibia. Across the globe psychologists, philosophers and educators continue to engage in debates and research projects in search of answers and solutions for the improvement of Mathematics education. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, many teachers are dedicated and achieve outstanding results with their learners. This thesis reports on a research project that focused on the Mathematics teaching practice of two teachers whose experiences can make a positive contribution to the improvement of Mathematics teaching in Namibia. Furthermore, this case study investigated and attempted to understand the Mathematics teaching practices of two proficient teachers who each claimed to have a specific and unique approach to teaching Mathematics. The one claimed to be mainly procedural in her Mathematics teaching, while the other one claimed to teach mainly in a conceptual manner. Both achieve very good results with their classes and attribute their own teaching orientations to a process of several experiences they went through as students and in their careers. The study revealed that both claims are substantiated and that each teacher was consistent in her claimed approach. Many challenges and constraints were encountered by both teachers, but in their unique and specific ways each teacher’s chosen teaching approach supported them to overcome these. It was evident from the findings that each teacher’s practice came about as an evolutionary process over an extended period of time. As many challenges and limitations are universal, it is believed that in sharing experiences, teachers can benefit from each other by improving their practice. It was clearly stated by both participants that the re-thinking of and reflecting on their own practices provided them with new insights and motivation. Peer support and sharing of practices contribute positively towards the improvement of the teachers’ classroom practices.
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Dzambara, Tobias Munyaradzi. "An analysis of the distribution and use of teaching aids in mathematics in selected Windhoek secondary schools." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001410.
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This study investigates the types of mathematics teaching aids available at both public and private secondary schools in Windhoek. The study characterises their usage and source as well as teachers’ perceptions towards the use of such teaching resources in the Mathematics classroom. The study is grounded in an interpretive paradigm and employed a mixed methods approach to generate both quantitative and qualitative data in two sequential phases. Phase 1 of the research process, which involved 75 Mathematics teachers, took the form of an audit of the availability and use of teaching aids at 25 secondary schools in Windhoek. A case study methodology was adopted in Phase 2 which focused on five purposively selected schools that displayed different characteristics in terms of the availability of teaching resources. The study found that the majority of teachers at secondary schools in Windhoek have a positive attitude towards the importance and role of teaching aids in Mathematics, seeing them as promoters of hands-on engagement, visual reasoning, active participation and motivation amongst learners. However, in some instances schools are underresourced with respect to certain types of teaching aids, specifically graph boards, geoboards, geometric models and computers. A need for appropriate in-school support on the use of teaching aids was also identified
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Rodrigues, Losada Ricardo J. "Teachers' perceptions of spreadsheet algebra programs as curriculum materials for high school mathematics in Namibia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/71846.
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Thesis (MEd)--Stellenbosch University, 2012Includes bibliography
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The use of information and communications technologies (ICTs) in the form of spreadsheet algebra programmes (SAPs) is important in the professional development of high school mathematics teachers. This is in line with The Namibian government‟s Vision 2030 in which ICT skills and competencies are regarded as core elements of living and participating in the 21st century. ICTs are also considered to be fundamental to the development of a dynamic knowledge-based economy (KBE) through the Education and Training Sector Improvement Program (ETSIP). ETSIP‟s aim is to embed ICT at all levels of the education system. It also aims to integrate the use of ICTs as tools in the delivery of curriculum and learning and in so doing, lead to a marked improvement in the quality of the learning and teaching process across all levels. Education has a key role in achieving Vision 2030. The aim of this research was to investigate mathematics teachers‟ perceptions of SAPs as curriculum materials in selected Namibian secondary (high) schools. This research adopted a qualitative methodology, which in this instance was a case study. The sample population consisted of five teachers from Okamu (pseudonym) secondary school in the Ohangwena Region of Namibia. Four of them had been teaching mathematics at different levels in the mentioned school for a period of four years, and one of them was teaching physical science. Three methods of data collection were used. The first two were semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews based on teachers‟ experiences using SAPs. The third method was an audio taped observation of a lesson taught by one of the teachers,. This research provides evidence about teachers‟ perceptions regarding time concerns and constraints with regards to the SAPs and the use of the SAPs. The teachers showed willingness and enthusiasm to use SAPs on linear and quadratic functions in their teaching. Some of the teachers became more aware of the epistemic dimensions associated with mathematical and algebraic symbols. Interview data reveal that the teachers had not considered these dimensions when teaching with the usual paper-and-pen format. The research also provides evidence of a teacher‟s early vision about the use of spreadsheets as an instrument to teach linear functions. This teacher did not consider any epistemic value for the instrumented spreadsheets techniques, or that they might contribute to a deeper understanding of the linear functions. His concern was focused more on getting the learners to acquire computer skills, such as learning how to use spreadsheets. It is recommended that in-service professional development about ICT integration into mathematics teaching be offered. This might help teachers to learn how their knowledge and skills could be used in the classroom more effectively in order to save time. It is also suggested that professional development programmes be designed to stimulate and promote teachers‟ willingness to develop an understanding of the characteristics of ICTs such as SAPs and their uses. Lastly, it is recommended that new SAPs be designed in order to deepen the understanding of algebra at the secondary level.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die gebruik van inligting- en kommunikasietegnologieë (IKT's) in die vorm van sigblad-algebra-programme (SAP's) is belangrik vir die professionele ontwikkeling van hoërskoolwiskunde-onderwysers. Dit is in pas met die Namibiese regering se visie vir 2030, Vision 2030, waarin IKT-vaardighede en -bevoegdhede beskou word as kernelemente van die lewe in en deelname aan die 21ste eeu. IKT's word ook beskou as grondliggend aan die ontwikkeling van ‟n dinamiese kennisekonomie (KE) deur middel van die Verbeteringsprogram vir die Onderwys- en Opleidingsektore (ETSIP). ETSIP het as oogmerk om IKT op alle vlakke van die onderwysstelsel vas te lê. Dit het ook ten doel om die gebruik van IKT's as hulpmiddele te integreer in die lewering van kurrikulum en leer en sodoende ‟n duidelike verbetering in die gehalte van die onderrig-en-leerproses oor alle vlakke heen tot gevolg te hê. Onderwys het ‟n sleutelrol te speel by die bereiking van Vision 2030. Die doel van hierdie navorsing was om wiskundeonderwysers se persepsies van SAP's as kurrikulummateriaal in geselekteerde Namibiese sekondêre (hoër-) skole te ondersoek. Hierdie navorsing het ‟n kwalitatiewe metode gevolg, in hierdie geval ‟n gevallestudie. Die proefgroep het bestaan uit vyf onderwysers van die sekondêre skool Okamu (skuilnaam) in die Ohangwena-streek van Namibië. Vier van hulle het reeds vier jaar lank wiskunde op verskillende vlakke in die betrokke skool gegee en een van hulle het fisiese wetenskap gegee. Drie metodes is ingespan om data in te samel. Die eerste twee was semigestruktureerde onderhoude en fokusgroeponderhoude gebaseer op onderwysers se ervaringe ten opsigte van die gebruik van SAP's. Die derde metode was ‟n klankopname van ‟n waarnemingsessie van ‟n les wat deur een van die onderwysers gegee is. Hierdie navorsing getuig van onderwysers se persepsies ten opsigte van tydskwessies en -beperkinge met betrekking tot die SAP's en die gebruik van die SAP's. Die onderwysers het ‟n gewilligheid en geesdrif geopenbaar om by lineêre en kwadratiese funksies SAP's in hul onderrig te gebruik. Party onderwysers het meer bewus geraak van die epistemiese dimensies in verband met wiskundige en algebraïese simbole. Onderhouddata onthul dat die onderwysers nie hierdie dimensies in ag geneem het toe hulle met die gewone papier-en-pen-formaat klasgegee het nie. Die navorsing bevestig ook ‟n onderwyser se aanvanklike insig oor die gebruik van sigblaaie as 'n instrument om lineêre funksies te onderrig. Hierdie onderwyser het nie die epistemiese waarde vir die geïnstrumenteerde sigbladtegnieke in ag geneem nie, of dat hulle sou kon bydra tot ‟n grondiger begrip van die lineêre funksies nie. Sy belangstelling was eerder daarop gefokus om die leerders sover te kry om rekenaarvaardighede, soos om sigblaaie te kan gebruik, te verwerf. Daar word aanbeveel dat indiens- professionele ontwikkeling oor IKT-integrasie in wiskundeonderrig aangebied word. Dit sal onderwysers moontlik help om te leer hoe hulle kennis en vaardighede meer doeltreffend in die klaskamer gebruik kan word om tyd te bespaar. Daar word ook voorgestel dat professionele ontwikkelingsprogramme ontwerp word, ter stimulering en bevordering van onderwysers se bereidwilligheid om ‟n begrip te ontwikkel van die kenmerke en gebruike van IKT's soos SAP's. Laastens word daar aanbeveel dat nuwe SAP's ontwerp word om die verstaan van algebra op sekondêre vlak te verdiep.
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Vatilifa, Ndamononghenda. "An investigation into understanding the experiences of the level 5-7 student teachers when teaching fractions in primary schools in Namibia: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001792.
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The Namibian government through the Ministry of Education seeks for teachers to meet the demands and rise to the challenges of the post-independence basic education system. Therefore the University of Namibia Education Faculty must ensure through the training of student teachers for both lower, upper primary and secondary school level that these demands are met. Research shows that one of the major challenges in teacher training programs, specifically in the mathematics education programmes, lies with the student teachers’ difficulties in dealing with various topics in mathematics, particularly fractions. The teaching of fractions is a challenging area at primary level and lays the foundation for understanding different topics in upper grades such as algebra, ratio and proportion, statistics and probability, to mention just a few. This study focused on an exploration of teaching fractions by five student teachers during their teaching practice.The main purpose was to gain an understanding of the experiences of the level 5-7 student teachers with regard to their practice of fraction teaching; their experience of the mathematics education course with respect to the teaching of fractions; and their prior experience related to fractions and fraction teaching at Grade 6 level. The findings from this research showed that student teachers viewed mathematics, specifically fractions, as just about doing calculations, doing drill and practice as in this way learners’ understanding of fractions is enhanced. The importance of using rules and procedures was emphasized as paving the way to mastering fractions. The data analysis also revealed that student teachers employed different teaching approaches when they considered learners’ prior knowledge. However, they misinterpreted the learner-centred approach in terms of group work and class discussion in their teaching of fractions. The data also revealed that some student teachers had an understanding of fractions as they managed to redirect their learners from applying some fraction misconceptions. The findings further showed that due to lack of understanding most of the participants experienced fear and anxiety in their fraction teaching; attempted an approach then reverted to old practices used in schools; taught fractions as symbolic representations where no meaning was involved; used incorrect terminologies such as ‘1 over 4’ or ‘1 out of 4’ instead of a ‘quarter’ or ‘one-fourth’. It is further revealed that the some student teachers viewed a fraction as a pair of two different whole numbers and can be broken apart. The findings of this study yielded one main implication for the teaching of mathematics: that the teacher training programs, specifically for mathematics teachers, must take into consideration the weaknesses and strengths of the student teachers shown in this study to properly train and prepare them to become effective mathematics teachers.
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Ngola-Kazumba, Maria. "An investigation on how learners may use multiple representations in a social interaction to promote learning of percentages and fractions: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006057.
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The study examined the use of multiple representations such as the real world, written symbols, spoken symbols, diagrams and manipulatives by learners to promote the learning of percentages and fractions through social interaction. This investigation was carried out through a teaching and learning programme which was developed and implemented by me, the researcher. The effect of the implemented programme was the main focus of the research. The qualitative study was oriented in the interpretive paradigm – a paradigm that seeks to understand the meaning attached to human actions. Twenty learners participated in the implementation of the programme and 9 learners were selected for focus group interviews. The purpose of the interviews was to explore learners' understanding and feelings about the use of multiple representations in the learning of percentages and fractions through social interactions. The other tools employed in this study were pre-and-post diagnostic tests, observations, learners' work and a journal. The pre-test was used to determine learners' prior knowledge for the program design and implementation, while the post-test and learners' work were used to analyze the effect of the programme. Observations were used to investigate how multiple representations promoted or did not promote the learning of percentages and fractions. The teacher's journal was to record and reflect on any relevant information gathered on each lesson observed. The data shows that the effective use of multiple representations helped learners learn the concept of percentages and fractions better. Learners were able to look at representations in useful ways; multiple representations made some aspects of the concept clear; and multiple representations enabled learners to correct errors. Through the interaction between the teacher and learners, the following was found: all the learners changed words to change focus; learners made links between multiple representations; the learners deepened their concepts of percentages and fractions; learners could convert between fractions using multiple representations; learners could work out percentages of a quantity; and learners could express one quantity as a percentage of another. Furthermore, through the interaction between learners and learners all learners could identify more equivalent fractions of an initial fraction which was given to them; and they could increase and decrease a quantity by a given percentage. On the basis of this research, it can be concluded that the programme promoted the learning of percentages and fractions through three effective methodologies. The first methodology consisted of the effective use of multiple representations; the second methodology concerned the interaction between the teacher and learner during the learning process and the last methodology related to the interaction between the learners - interactions that were not strongly mediated by the teacher. I would recommend that teachers use these three effective approaches when teaching percentages and fractions to promote the learning of the concepts.
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Shilamba, Julia Ndinoshisho. "An investigation into the prevalence and use of code switching practices in grade 8 mathematics classrooms in the Ohangwena region of Namibia: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001683.
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This research report focuses on an investigation of the prevalence and nature of code switching practices in grade 8 mathematics classrooms in the Ohangwena region of Namibia. The existence of code switching in these classrooms was established by administering a survey to all grade 8 teachers in the region, while the nature of these practices was explored by interviewing and observing selected teachers using a case study research methodology. The data from the survey was analysed quantitatively using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data from the case study which comprised of audio and video transcripts was analysed within the framework of Probyn’s (2006) code switching categories. These categories looked at code switching in terms of: explaining concepts; clarifying statements or questions; emphasising points; making connections with learners’ own contexts and experiences; maintaining the learners’ attention with question tags; classroom management and maintaining discipline; and affective purposes. The study found that code switching is widespread in most of the grade 8 mathematics classrooms in the Ohangwena region. It also revealed that the teachers’ code switching practices aligned well with most of Probyn’s framework. The criterion of maintaining learner’s attention with question tags was however not found in this study. The results of the study showed that teachers code switch because the majority of the learners’ language proficiency is not good. Code switching is mostly used as a strategy to support and promote learners understanding in mathematics. The study recommends that it is high time that code switching is acknowledged as a legitimate practice and recognised as an important and meaningful teaching strategy to assist learners who are learning mathematics in their second language. Code switching needs to be de-stigmatised and teachers should be supported in using this practice effectively and efficiently.
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Courtney-Clarke, Magret Anna Eugenie. "Exploring the number sense of final year primary pre-service teachers." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/19943.
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Thesis (MEd)--Stellenbosch University, 2012.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study explored the number sense of 47 final year primary school pre-service teachers in Namibia and was motivated by the poor performance of Namibian primary school learners in both national and international standardised assessment tests. The literature review revealed that learner performance is linked to teacher subject knowledge (Ball, 1990, Ma, 1999) and that teachers’ confidence in doing and teaching mathematics influences the way they teach and their willingness to learn mathematics (Ball, 1990; Graven 2004). Number sense studies of pre-service teachers (Kaminski, 1997; Tsao, 2004; Veloo, 2010; Yang, Reys & Reys, 2009) have indicated that the development of number sense should be a focus of primary pre-service teacher education. The data in this mixed method research design were obtained from a Number Sense Questionnaire, a Written Computations Questionnaire and a Mental Calculations Questionnaire. These questionnaires were adapted from instruments developed by Professor Der-Ching Yang for 6th and 8th grade learners in Taiwan. Teacher confidence was measured by the McAnallen Confidence in Mathematics and Mathematics Teaching Survey. Six randomly selected pre-service teachers were interviewed to determine their use of number-sensible strategies. The correlation analysis shows a strong relationship between number sense and mental calculations; between number sense and confidence in both the ability to do and the ability to teach mathematics and between mental and written calculations. The overall results of this study reveal that the final year primary pre-service teachers demonstrate limited number sense and possess very few of the indicators of number sense that were described by Kalchman, Moss and Case (2001). The findings expose a lack of conceptual understanding of the domain numbers and operations, particularly in the domain of rational numbers and the operations of multiplication and division. The pre-service teachers have little or no access to a variety of flexible number-sensible strategies to solve problems and calculate mentally. They lack the fluency in basic facts and procedures to perform written calculations efficiently and correctly. Unexpectedly, the analysis of the confidence survey shows that they are confident in both their ability to do mathematics and their ability to teach mathematics. It is recommended that mental calculations and computational estimation should become a focus of primary school mathematics education. Institutions responsible for teacher training should develop the number sense of pre-service teachers and research effective and long-term professional development programmes. The confidence and willingness of the teachers to learn can be used as an important resource.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie studie ondersoek die getalbegrip van 47 finale jaar primêre skool voordiens-onderwysers in Namibië en is gemotiveer deur die swak prestasie van die Namibiese primêre skool leerlinge in beide nasionale en internasionale gestandaardiseerde assesseringstoetse. Die literatuurstudie het aan die lig gebring dat leerlinge se prestasie gekoppel is aan onderwyservakkennis (Ball, 1990, Ma, 1999) en dat onderwysers se vertroue in hulle vermoë om wiskunde te doen en te onderrig, die manier waarop hulle onderrig en hul bereidwilligheid om wiskunde te leer beïnvloed (Ball, 1990, Graven 2004 ). Studies van voordiens primêre onderwysers se getalbegrip (Kaminski, 1997; Tsao, 2004; Veloo, 2010; Yang, Reys & Reys, 2009) toon dat die ontwikkeling van getalbegrip 'n fokus van primêre voordiensonderwyseropleiding behoort te wees. Die data in hierdie gemengde metode navorsing is verkry uit 'n Getalbegrip, 'n Skriftelike Berekeninge en 'n Hoofrekene Vraelys. Hierdie vraelyste is gebaseer op die instrumente wat ontwikkel is deur Professor Der-Ching Yang vir graad 6 en 8 leerlinge in Taiwan. Onderwyservertroue is gemeet deur die McAnallen Confidence in Mathematics and Mathematics Teaching Survey. Ses ewekansig geselekteerde voordiens-onderwysers is ondervra om te bepaal watter sinvolle strategieë hulle gebruik om vrae oor getalbegrip te beantwoord. Die korrelasie-analise toon 'n sterk verband tussen getalbegrip en hoofrekene; tussen getalbegrip en vertroue in die vermoë om wiskunde te doen en te leer, en tussen vermoë om hoofrekene en skriftelike bewerkinge te doen. Die algehele resultate van hierdie studie dui daarop dat die finale jaar primêre voordiens-onderwysers oor beperkte getalbegrip en baie min van die aanwysers van getalbegrip wat deur Kalchman, Moss en Case (2001) beskryf is, beskik. Die bevindinge toon ‘n gebrek aan begrip van die domein van getalle en bewerkings, veral in die domein van rasionale getalle en die bewerkings vermenigvuldiging en deling. Die voordiens-onderwysers beskik oor min of geen soepel strategieë om probleme op te los en hoofrekene te doen nie. Hulle beskik nie oor die vlotheit in basiese feite en bewerkings om skriftelike berekeninge doeltreffend en korrek uit te voer nie. Die vertroue wat voordiens-onderwysers uitgespreek het in hulle vermoë om wiskunde te doen en onderrig staan in sterk teenstelling met hierdie bevindige. Dit word aanbeveel dat hoofrekene en skatting 'n fokus van primêre skool wiskunde-onderwys behoort te wees. Instansies gemoeid met onderwyseropleiding behoort die getalbegrip van voordiensonderwysers te onwikkel en navorsing te doen oor effektiewe en lang-termyn programme vir professionele ontwikkeling. Onderwysers se vertroue en bereidwilligheid om te leer kan as 'n belangrike hulpbron gebruik word.
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Shifotoka, Simsolia Namene. "An investigation into teacher perspectives and experiences in integrating HIV and AIDS information across the curriculum at some selected Junior Secondary Schools in the Oshana Region, Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004336.
Full textAbstract:
HIV and AIDS are still among the world's most significant public health challenges. Education is widely regarded as an effective response to the pandemic - a “social vaccine” that can increase young people’s awareness of the dangers of HIV infection and thus decrease their vulnerability to HIV and AIDS. Integrating HIV and AIDS awareness across the school curriculum is therefore one of the strategies being implemented to educate learners about the pandemic. There are challenges; however, related to the central goal of integrating HIV and AIDS education and also to the form – in particular, the pedagogical practices - that this might best take. This qualitative case study research investigated teachers’ perspectives, experiences, and levels of preparedness with regard to integrating HIV and AIDS information in the main carrier subjects, mathematics and geography, in some junior secondary schools in Namibia. The study situates debates on curriculum integration and draws on Fogarty’s (1999) models of curriculum integration as a conceptual and analytic tool to examine the nature, form and content of integration. It includes a questionnaire on curriculum integration completed by 53 teachers as well as a component consisting of observations and interviews with four teachers from two schools. The results reveal patterns that also emerge in earlier studies on curriculum integration. This approach is already widely recognized as challenging and problematic in the context of general education. However, this and other studies show that when HIV and AIDS are brought into the arena, additional factors come into play and further complicate the process, because of the sensitivity of this topic. In addition, the task of integrating HIV and AIDS education has been added to an already overcrowded curriculum. Teachers have not been provided with adequate (or any) training with concrete examples that might facilitate their efforts to integrate HIV and AIDS information into subjects like the ones under scrutiny in this study. The picture that emerges from examining the evidence on HIV and AIDS integration against Fogarty’s (1991) 10 models of curriculum integration is one in which teaching practices are ad hoc, opportunistic and haphazard right across the sample. The choice of integration models for implementation of the HIV and AIDS component in these subjects has been largely left to the opportunity, ability and personal inclinations of individual teachers. The results point to a range of responses, with many teachers not teaching HIV and AIDS at all or some hesitantly experimenting with different approaches; all to limited effect in realizing the intended national goals of this curriculum project. The overall pattern also reveals a degree of frustration among the teachers in the sample, who acknowledged and were concerned at the enormity of the HIV and AIDS challenge facing the country. They recognised the motive behind the policy to have the education system play an important role in response to the HIV challenge, but felt frustrated with the social, personal and practical difficulties of actually implementing the policy within the context of poor (or no) training, knowledge, and support.
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Shaw, George A. "A Study Concerning Self-Help Groups and College Mathematics." Thesis, North Texas State University, 1985. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc330953/.
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The problem with which this investigation is concerned is that of determining whether utilizing self-help groups for remedial mathematics students would improve their course completion rates, achievement, and attitudes toward learning mathematics. The methods of determining the success/failure of self-help groups in this study were the Z-test from inferences concerning two proportions, the t-test from inferences concerning the difference between two independent means, and the t-test from inferences concerning the difference between two dependent means. The participants of the study were chosen from the students enrolled in "daytime" mathematics classes at Tarrant County Junior College - Northeast Campus, Hurst, Texas. The experiment was conducted over two semesters and the data combined for statistical analysis. There were one hundred four students involved in the study. Fifty-two students comprised each of the experimental and control classes. The term self-help group was utilized to describe a small group of two-to-fifteen people who engaged in discussion of responsibility, standards, confession, lay leadership, and action. The students did not study mathematics in self-help group sessions. The group meetings dealt with anxieties, attitudes, and commitment that may be associated with mathematics in general. To investigate the hypotheses of this study, data was collected to calculate the percentage completion rates, the means of the final exams taken by students, and the differences of the Semantic Differential scores given to students in the experimental class at the beginning and the end of the semester. This data was utilized for statistical analysis to determine if the experiment was successful. The report concludes that self-help groups did not significantly improve course completion rates, achievement, or attitudes of students toward learning mathematics. Forty-four per cent of the students that completed the experimental class participated in self-help groups.
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Umoh, Udoudo J. (Udoudo Jimmy). "Factors Related to Student Retention in Community College Developmental Education Mathematics." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1992. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279110/.
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This study investigated the factors related to student retention in a comprehensive community college developmental education mathematics program. The purpose was to identify and describe these factors and to develop strategies for improving retention in the community college developmental education mathematics program. Tinto's 1975 model of institutional departure was employed to examine different factors relating to retention in developmental education mathematics courses. In accordance with established criteria, data were collected using the Institutional Integration Scale (IIS) and Students Existing Records (SER). The IIS survey instrument questionnaire was completed by 41 students from a sample of 56 developmental education students enrolled in college level mathematics, and the data thus collected were used for analysis. Data were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, and the chi-square statistical analysis with a significant level of 0.05. The analysis of the data showed that the responding sample was primarily white, females aged 18 to 45. Most of the respondents had high grade point averages, did not miss any developmental education mathematics classes, and attended extra curricular activities infrequently. More fathers than mothers of the sample population had received a college education. Academic goal commitment, institutional experience, academic involvement, and placement grades were not statistically significant factors influencing retention. Among the major findings were: Development education instructors appeared to make the difference, institutional experience, academic goal commitment, and placement grades did not appear to play a major role; the students' academic involvement beyond classes appeared negligible; age, gender, grade point average, and parental educational levels were not significant factors for student retention in developmental education mathematics courses. Although statistical evidence did not support reversal of the proposed null hypotheses, pertinent issues for further research were raised.
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Ihonya, Saima Namupa. "A comparison of Grade 10 Mathematics classroom-based test items and the end-of-year national examinations, using Stein's framework of cognitive demands : a Namibian case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017343.
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This study researched the nature of tasks used in Grade 10 mathematics tests and end-of-year national examinations. The study was carried out in three, purposively selected, Grade 10 schools in the Ohangwena region in Northern Namibia. For the purpose of this study, a mixed method approach was employed to analyse a combination of both quantitative and qualitative data. A sample of three tests per mathematics teacher from the three participating schools and national examinations question papers for the past three consecutive years (2011-2013) were analysed using Stein, Smith, Henningsen, & Silver’s (2000) framework of cognitive demand. The study was divided into two phases. Phase 1 was the analysis of teacher test items and national examination items in terms of their cognitive demand. Phase 2 involved semi-structured interviews with three selected teachers to probe their views and find out their basis for selecting test items. The findings of this study revealed that there was no substantial difference in the distribution of the levels of cognitive demand in both tests and national examinations items. The study, however, showed that mainly tasks requiring only procedures without connections dominated the tests and the examinations. The number of higher level tasks in both tests and examinations analysed was low. There was no single task coded at level 4 in any of the teachers’ tests. Only 2% of tasks could be classified at level 4 in the examination items. The study also revealed that since tests and examinations assess the same learning objectives from the syllabus, most of the test items set by teachers were extracted from the national examinations question papers. The paper recommends that more tasks at a higher level category need to be included in assessment tasks to promote critical thinking amongst learners.
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Raoano, Malesela Joel. "Improving learners Mathematics problem solving skills and strategies in the intermediate phase : a case study of primary school in Lebopo Circuit." Thesis, University of Limpopo, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10386/1761.
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Thesis (M. Ed. (Mathematics Education)) -- University of Limpopo, 2016.The purpose of this study was to examine learners’ mathematical word problem solving skills and strategies in Intermediate Phase. The study was prompted by Grade 6 learners’ poor performance in the cognitive area, non-routine mathematical word problems, as revealed in Annual National Assessment reports of 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. The study followed action research collaborative method involving 26 Grade 6 learners and their mathematics educator. The school is a rural primary school categorised under quintile two. Problem solving theory by Polya (1957) guided the study in answering three research questions: What are the challenges faced by Grade 6 learners in solving word problems? What are Grade 6 learners’ strategies in solving word problems? How can learners’ problem solving skills and strategies focusing on word problems be improved? Data were collected in a routine structured process: pre-intervention phase, intervention phase and post-intervention phase. Analysis was made through the development of a system of categorisation of learners’ responses. The four principles of problem solving by Polya (1957) namely, the way learners understand the problem, how they devise the plan, how they carry out the plan and the manner in which they look back guided the analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the strategies introduced assisted learners in making sense of the word problems and finally proceeding towards an adequate solution. It was also found out that the learners lacked the ability to read with understanding; the problem being their lack of competence in the language of learning and teaching. The skills which learners also lacked when solving word problems were identified as arithmetic skills and reflective skills.
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Mills, Mary K. "Evaluation of a Remedial Educational Program at a Southern Suburban Middle School." ScholarWorks, 2011. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/985.
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No Child Left Behind (NCLB) mandates that students be measured yearly on standardized state tests, rather than on classwork, to show adequate academic growth. During the 2007--2008 school year, 38% of eighth graders in one state failed the math portion of the Criterion Referenced Competency Test (CRCT). The purpose of this quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest control-group study was to determine if there was a significant difference in CRCT scores between at-risk eighth-grade math students receiving instruction in (a) the Remedial Education Program (REP) and in (b) the regular program. The theoretical base for this study included Piaget's concrete operational theory, constructivist theory, and behaviorist theory. In this causal-comparative experimental design, analysis of covariance was used to assess differences in eighth grade CRCT scores, controlling for seventh-grade test scores. Of the 50 students in this study, 25 received instruction in the REP model and 25 in the traditional model. Results indicated that the group that received the REP program instruction had significantly higher eighth-grade CRCT scores than the regular instruction group. Implications for positive social change include better understanding the most effective type of math instruction for at-risk students that can result in increased math achievement.
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Ntinda, Maria Ndapewa. "Web-based M-learning system for ad-hoc learning of mathematical concepts amongst first year students at the University of Namibia." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013174.
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In the last decade, there has been an increase in the number of web-enabled mobile devices, offering a new platform that can be targeted for the development of learning applications. Worldwide, developers have taken initiatives in developing mobile learning (M-learning) systems to provide students with access to learning materials regardless of time and location. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether it is viable for first year students enrolled at the University of Namibia (UNAM) to use mobile phones for ad-hoc learning of mathematical concepts. A system, EnjoyMath, aiming to assist students in preparing for tests, examinations, review contents and reinforce knowledge acquired during traditional classroom interactions was designed and implemented. The EnjoyMath system was designed and implemented through the use of the Human Centred Design (HCD) methodology. Two revolutions of the four-step process of the HCD cycle were completed in this study. Due to the distance between UNAM and Rhodes University (where the researcher was based), the researcher could not always work in close relation with the UNAM students. Students from the Extended Study Unit (ESU) at Rhodes University were therefore selected in the first iteration of the project due to their proximity to the researcher and their similar demographics to the first year UNAM students, while the UNAM students were targeted in the second iteration of the study. This thesis presents the outcome of the two pre-intervention studies of the first-year students' perceptions about M-learning conducted at Rhodes University and UNAM. The results of the pre-intervention studies showed that the students are enthusiastic about using an M-learning system, because it would allow them to put in more time to practice their skills whenever and wherever they are. Moreover, the thesis presents the different stages undertaken to develop the EnjoyMath system using Open Source Software (PHP and MySQL). The results of a user study (post-intervention) conducted with participants at UNAM, ascertained the participants' perception of the usability of the EnjoyMath system and are also presented in this thesis. The EnjoyMath system was perceived by the participants to be "passable"; hence an M-learning system could be used to compliment an E-learning system at UNAM.
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Mateya, Muhongo. "Using the van Hiele theory to analyse geometrical conceptualisation in grade 12 students: a Namibian perspective." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003706.
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The study reported here utilised a theory of levels of geometric thinking. This theory was proposed and developed by two Dutch mathematics educators, Pierre van Hiele and his wife, Dina van Hiele-Geldof. The van Hiele theory enables investigations into why many students experience difficulties in learning geometry. In many nations, such as the UK, the USA, Netherlands, the USSR and to a certain extent, Nigeria and South Africa, research evidence has indicated that the overall students’ mathematical competencies are linked to their geometric thinking levels. This study is the first of its kind to apply the van Hiele theory of geometric thinking in the Namibian context to analyse geometrical conceptualisation in Grade 12 mathematics students. In all, 50 Grade 12 students (20 from School A and 30 from School B) were involved in this study. These students wrote a van Hiele Geometry Test adapted from the Cognitive Development and Achievement in Secondary School Geometry test items. Thereafter, a clinical interview with the aid of manipulatives was conducted. The results from this study indicated that many of the School A and School B students who participated in the research have a weak conceptual understanding of geometric concepts: 35% of the School A and 40% of the School B subsamples were at the prerecognition level. 25% and 30% of the School A, and 20% and 23.3% of the School B students were at van Hiele levels 1 and 2 respectively. An equal number of students but different in percentages, 2 (10%) in School A and 2 (6.7%) in School B, were at van Hiele level 3. Only one student from School B attained van Hiele level 4. These results were found to be consistent with those of previous similar studies in UK, USA, Nigeria and South Africa. The findings of this study also highlight issues of how the Namibian Grade 12 geometry syllabus should be aligned with the van Hiele levels of geometric thinking as well as the use of appropriate and correct language in geometrical thinking and problem solving.
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Muhembo, Gottfried Mbundu. "An analysis of how visualisation processes can be used by teachers participating in an intervention programme to teach for conceptual understanding of geometry." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62439.
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Visualisation in general and visualisation processes in particular have received much attention in the mathematics education research literature. Literature suggests that the appropriate use of visualisation helps learners to develop their conceptual understanding and skills of geometry as it allows them to visually interpret and understand fundamental mathematical and geometrical concepts. It is claimed that visual tools play an important role in communicating mathematical ideas through diagrams, gestures, images, sketches or drawings. Learning mathematics through visualisation can be a powerful tool to explore mathematical problems and give meaning to mathematical concepts and relationships between them. This interpretive case study focused on how selected teachers taught concepts in geometry through visualisation processes for conceptual understanding as a result of an intervention programme. The study was conducted at four high schools by four mathematics teachers in the Kavango East Region in Northern Namibia. The participants were involved in a three-week intervention programme and afterwards taught three lessons each on the topic of geometry. The data collection method of this research was: focus group and stimulus recall interviews, classroom observations and recorded videos. This research is located in constructivism. I used vertical and horizontal analysis strategies to analyse the data. My analytical instrument consisted of an observation schedule which I used in each lesson to identify how each of the visualisation processes was evident in each of the observed lessons. This study revealed that the participant teachers used visualisation processes in most of their lessons and these processes were used accurately in line with the requirements of the grade 8 mathematics syllabi. The visualisation processes were used through designed visual materials, posters and through the use of geometrical objects such as chalkboard ruler, protractor and compass. The results from this study also confirmed that visualisation processes can be a powerful instructional tool for enhancing learners’ conceptual understanding of geometry.
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Hebe, Gasenakeletso Ennie. "Investigating Grade 3 learners’ changing mathematical proficiency in a maths club programme focused on number sense progression." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62200.
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Recent international reports, for example TIMSS (2011 & 2015), point to serious challenges in South African learner performance in Mathematics and Science. Of greatest concern is that research findings (e.g. Graven, Venkat, Westaway and Tshesane 2013) suggest that many South African learners show signs of mathematical knowledge gaps in the lower grades. Hence, there is a need to address challenges of this nature very early in Foundation Phase. This study was undertaken with a view to contribute towards addressing mathematical challenges encountered by learners in Foundation Phase This empirical enquiry was undertaken under the auspices of the South African Numeracy Chair Project (SANCP) at Rhodes University whose mission is to develop sustainable ways of improving quality teaching and learning of Mathematics in South Africa. A relatively new SANCP programme called Pushing for Progression (PfP) run as part of the after-school Maths Clubs to develop the number sense and four Operations in learners was used to achieve the research aims of this study. Research participants were drawn from the Maths Clubs established by the researcher in a small rural town of Ottosdal in the North West Province of South Africa. This Study is grounded on the Vygotskian perspective and uses the interpretivist qualitative research method for data collection and analysis. Sampling was done opportunistically by enlisting participants (12 teachers and 117 learners) on the basis of their availability and willingness to participate. Pre- and post-assessment of learners’ proficiency on the four Basic Operations was conducted at the beginning and at the end of the research project, respectively. This was done to determine the impact of the project on learner performance. Data analysis was done thematically and through the comparison of learner results of the pre- and post-assessment. The findings point to the effectiveness of the PfP Programme in learner performance. This can be deduced from improved scores between pre- and post-assessment and the observations made by participant-teachers on their respective club learners’ mathematical proficiencies. Accordingly, based on the findings, this study recommends, inter alia, that since the PfP programme is still in its early stages, similar research be conducted elsewhere. Additionally, the Department of Basic Education could consider exploring the PfP programme as one of several other strategies to help improve learner proficiency in Mathematics.
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Huang, Chih-Ming, and 黃志民. "An action research of mathematics remedial teaching." Thesis, 2017. http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/35muha.
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碩士國立彰化師範大學
科學教育研究所
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This study is based on the study of the remedial teaching of mathematics remediation in one eight grade students. It is expected that through the analysis of the results, the remedial teaching and follow-up counseling of the students can be made. At the initial stage of the study, three math units of seven grade of the design and the interview, and then analyze the current capacity of the state and learning difficulties. The second stage is to use the calculator to do the mixed arithmetic problems and the solution of Soma cube, remedial teaching, the entire stage of the video and collect the student in the remedial teaching fill in the study, thinking and dialogue process, and Individual interview materials and other information, after the completion of the data analysis, and then according to the preparation and conduct of the third phase of the concept of the eight grade square root remediation teaching, learning and learning process video interviews and other information, supplemented by the students of the class teacher interview. The results are as follows: The calculation of computing capacity, pen and paper can only be calculated to add a bit, but if the calculator can be stable and correct completion of the three-digit integer addition and subtraction mixed computing problem. The student for the Soma cube problem solving was very interested in, and can understand the meaning and smooth problem-solving, and even take the initiative to express hope to be able to accept the another problem test, we can see the student of the space ability is good and have the will to learn. As for the student in the square root concept of remedial teaching activities, the puzzle performance is better than the square root to understand, so need to spend more time to build thus student’s square root concept. Accompanied by class teacher’s interview found that the student still have the ability to learn the basic mathematics concepts, the follow-up to the student to save the school, it is recommended to prepare for his geometric problems interested in proceeding, especially algebra problems can be supplemented by geometric diagram is more suitable for the student.
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Sagna, Bakary. "Effectiveness of Remedial Mathematics Supplemental Instruction: a Community College Study." Thesis, 2019. https://doi.org/10.7916/d8-b4ev-fr06.
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The purpose of this mixed method study was to determine if there is a relationship between characteristics of supplemental instructors’ personal traits, teaching skills, subject matter, constructive/active, collaborative learning, effective communication, and their practices (as judged by students) and student success in their remedial mathematics course.
The college Provost was contacted by email to request an authorization to conduct this study in his college. Once approved, the investigator contacted face to face his colleagues to ask their students to participate in the study because they enrolled in a remedial algebra class where the instructor is assisted by a supplemental instructor (SI leader). Sixteen algebra classes were selected, and each were assisted by supplemental instructors. Students’ scores on the pre-test (at beginning of the semester) and post-test (at the end of the semester) were collected to gauge their achievement on both tests. Students completed a questionnaire that asked about their perceptions about their supplemental instructors’ personal traits, teaching skills, subject matter, constructive/active, collaborative learning, effective communication, and their practices throughout the semester. Students’ mean scores difference on the post-test were higher in 62.5% of the sections than on the pre-test.
The evaluation of achievement on both tests, the responses to the questionnaire and comments from students showed that SI leader’s characteristics associated to effective communication/active learning, teaching skills, and personal traits could be contributor to score achievements. The linear regression in the study shows that the three factors did not significantly predict the post-test score. However, the pre-test did significantly predict the post-test score in a remedial Math 20 at the end of the semester (Beta = .47, t (197) = 6.56, p <.05). In addition, the comments in the questionnaire found that students acknowledged their supplemental instructor role in the classroom and during the SI’s weekly sessions.
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Arriola, Leslie K. "Teaching college adults remedial mathematics: Is there a best way?" 1993. https://scholarworks.umass.edu/dissertations/AAI9408249.
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This research explores the question of how best to remediate the math skills of adult college students. Two bodies of literature relating to adults and poor mathematical performance are reviewed, and a summary of one of the most influential theories of learning is presented. First, the literature on adult learners is reviewed to gain insight into characteristics of and assumptions about adult learners. The second body of literature explores psychological factors contributing to poor mathematical learning. Research on math anxiety, math avoidance, and women and math is reviewed, along with research on interventions implemented by colleges to help students overcome negative feelings about their ability to learn math. The third summarizes Jean Piaget's theory of intellectual development and its relevance to adult learners. In-depth interviews were conducted with nine "good" college instructors who teach developmental mathematics to both traditional and non-traditional undergraduates. The teachers were asked to talk about their experiences learning math, their teaching philosophies and methods, and their observations about adult mathematics students. Students in the instructors' current classes answered open-ended questions in an anonymous written survey. The surveys asked students to describe their instructor's teaching methods, their feelings about learning math since being in the class, and their beliefs about the role age plays in ability to learn math. The responses of the teachers and students indicate that (1) cognitive ability to do math does not change with age, (2) ability to learn basic math depends on two main factors: motivation and having a "good" teacher and, (3) good college remedial mathematics teachers are non-threatening; use a student-centered, active learning approach; stress understanding over memorization and rote computations; and focus on developing reasoning, problem solving and higher order thinking skills. The conclusion of the dissertation is that a Piagetian approach to teaching basic math is as applicable to older students as it is to younger learners, but that more research is needed to determine the ways in which differences, other than cognitive, between age groups can help or hinder mathematics learning.