Local Children's Mathematics Network
groups: Background In the early
1990s we were founder members of a local group of teachers in Exeter who
met regularly, discussing, reading and challenging each others' thinking
about Early Years mathematics. As members of the group we experienced
first-hand the value of collaboration and co-construction in supporting
effective pedagogy. After several years this group ended and the two of
us began to research and develop children's mathematical graphics in
depth.
IN 2003 we founded the Children’s
Mathematics Network and subsequently introduced the concept of local CM
Network groups. We are delighted to learn of the progress of the first
group in Bristol: the work of the members of this group confirms the
importance of trusting teachers and practitioners and of giving them
'ownership' of their professional development (see the RECME Report's
findings). The research has shown that belonging to a local CM Network
group can provide you with a very effective means of professional
development and lead to exceptionally high levels of their children’s
mathematical thinking and problem solving thorugh their mathematical
graphics.
|