"Connecting Secondary and Tertiary Mathematics"

Abstract: What content knowledge do mathematics teachers have? What knowledge is important for effective instruction? How do prospective mathematics teachers attain and develop content knowledge? How can teachers use content knowledge to influence students' mathematical thinking? These questions are the basis for my research looking at the knowledge of mathematical connections between secondary and tertiary mathematics. This research is important in the current educational and political climate because of the focus on and critiques of teacher preparation and education programs. In this talk, I will provide a short introduction of my research and engage the audience in mathematical activities that highlight connections. During the mathematical activities, I will facilitate a group conversation about the intellectual merit of school mathematics and why knowing these things would be important for a mathematics teacher to know.