• Journal of the Korean School Mathematics Society
• /
• v.9 no.4
• /
• pp.575-595
• /
• 2006

In this paper, we investigated the effects of mathematics classes using play-action programs in the course of mathematics education of future elementary school teachers. This study was conducted with 43 junior university students who selected 'Play Mathematics' in 2006. All the participants in this course was divided 11 groups. Play-action mathematics programs was consisted of 12 themes. For example, there was tangram, somacube, hexamino, tessellation, geoboard etc. In the beginning of lessons, we investigated theses themes itself through plays, puzzles, games, and computer programs. And next time, we investigated the relationships between these themes and elementary mathematic textbooks(i.e. mathematical contents). In 14th and 15th lessons, all the groups took a project presentation lessons that included all things about play mathematics in all group categories. And they developed two themes of play mathematics in accordance with grades, contents, levels as course tasks. Through this study, three educational effects induced. First, future elementary school teachers have a deep understanding about play-action mathematics. They are interested in these play themes, and take part in these play mathematics programs of their own accord. And they realize that these play themes are related to elementary mathematics. Second, future elementary school teachers' attitude and mind about mathematical are improved after this course. Third, future elementary school teachers comprehend various instruction methods relating to play mathematics. Therefore, we suggest that future elementary school teachers need to have many opportunity to experience and develop a mathematics classes using play mathematics.