• Research in Mathematical Education
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• v.21 no.1
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• pp.35-46
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• 2018

In this perspective paper, we present seven elements of the appropriate educator mindset for teaching in the constructivist elementary mathematics classroom. The elements include supporting students as they construct their own understanding, eliminating deficit view of slow learners, setting new understanding and growth as the learning objective, providing opportunities to co-construct meaning with peers, using student contributions as the source of curricular material, encouraging all students to participate in learning, and providing instruction not bounded by time. In our struggles to provide authentic, inclusive elementary classrooms, we hope that our discussion of the educator mindset can increase discourse on constructivism from philosophy to practice in the community of mathematics education and policy makers.

• Education of Primary School Mathematics
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• v.19 no.4
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• pp.349-360
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• 2016

This cross-national study examines the similarities and differences between Korean and U.S. pre-service teachers' views on equitable mathematics teaching. Pre-service teachers enrolled in mathematics education courses at the two sites (Korea, n=51; U.S., n=33) were administered a survey consisting of the following: (a) items about pre-service teachers' views on equity relative to mathematical ability, classroom policies and practices, and access to learning opportunities, (b) items about pre-service teachers' agreement in their views on recommended practices, and (c) items about participants' past learning experiences in an equitable learning environment as students. Similarities were found between the sites regarding the following: (a) advocating for equitable mathematics teaching, and (b) conceptualizing equitable teaching as a way to support the learning of less capable students. Differences were found with regard to nurturing growth mindsets in mathematics; positioning toward equal opportunities and outcomes in learning; and relating to grouping as collaborative learning strategies.