The mathematical association diploma in mathematical education as an instrument for in-service education for primary school teachers

Abstract

The Mathematical Association Diploma in Mathematical Education is a qualification for teachers with at least two years’ qualified teaching experience, with its emphasis on teaching children in the 5-13 age range. Its purpose is to equip suitable and interested teachers to make a strong personal contribution to the teaching of mathematics within their own schools; it is particularly appropriate for those who hold, or hope to hold, positions of responsibility for mathematics in first or middle schools. Diploma courses first started in 1978 and by 1982 about 2000 teachers had enrolled for Diploma courses. The research project 1980-82, based at Durham University, was funded by the Department of Education and Science to monitor the progress of the Diploma and to assess its effectiveness. Information was collected from students (a postal questionnaire was sent to 1003 students with a 74% response rate, visits were made both in 1981 and 1982 to the schools and Diploma centres of a stratified random sample of 41 students), tutors, moderators, Diploma Board members, mathematics advisers and records of the Mathematical Association. In order that the course should be more effective, recommendations were made from the Research Project to the following groups of people:-tutors, moderators, members of the Diploma Board, other subject teaching organisations, those responsible in LEAs for funding courses, and those responsible in central government for funding courses The Research Project provided the first substantial published British evaluation of in-service education for primary school teachers in mathematics and was characterised by the helpfulness and friendly co-operation of the various individuals and groups of people who gave evidence, advice or encouragement.