Deep Conceptual Understanding and Dissemination in Mathematics (MAF500)

Covers methods for the development of a deep understanding of topics in mathematics through the use of recreational mathematical resources, group discussions and teaching. Emphasis is on applicability in school contexts.


Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts

Course code

MAF500

Version

1

Credits (ECTS)

10

Semester tution start

Autumn

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Autumn

Language of instruction

English

Offered by
Time table

View course schedule

Content

This course covers methods for supporting the development of critical thinking skills and problem solving techniques that are necessary to obtain a deep understanding of concepts in mathematics. Emphasis is placed on gaining experience in the communication and dissemination of ideas and arguments in mathematics, in both oral and written forms.

Development and use of exciting and joyful classroom activities to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills in mathematics, through a process of inquisitive exploration, experimentation, and discovery.

Building up a systematic understanding of how to approach mathematical and related problems, how to deal with obstructions, and how to teach such skills.

Learning outcome

After completing this course, students will:

  • have knowledge of and experience with a range of mathematical and processes of thought that are of essential importance in developing a deep understanding of topics in mathematics.
  • be able to analyse and develop classroom activities that support the development of mathematical methods of thought by others.
  • gain experience in written and oral methods of communication of topics in mathematics, including critiquing and offering feedback to others.
  • gain knowledge of a wide range of real-world applications of mathematics, thereby being able to make representations on the important role that mathematics plays within society.

Required prerequisite knowledge

60 ECTS credits in mathematics/physics/chemistry

Recommended prerequisites

The course requires little prior mathematical knowledge, but it is useful if participants are familiar with concepts such as vector spaces, groups, and elementary number theory.

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Folder evaluation 1/1 Passed / Not Passed

The assessment is based on the essay, the presentation and the student's activity and contribution in the learning situation. The student chooses a task about which the essay is written. Assignment is selected from a list of pre-approved problems.If a student fails the course, she/he must repeat the portfolio evaluation the next time the course takes place.

Coursework requirements

Compulsory exercises

Submission of draft version of project report.

An oral presentation of material covered in the project report.

Course teacher(s)

Course teacher:

David Ploog

Course coordinator:

David Ploog

Head of Department:

Bjørn Henrik Auestad

Method of work

Classroom activities, project work.

Six hours lecturing and exercise work per week.

Open for

Open for single course students with a relevant background in mathematics.

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital course evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature

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