Teachers’ Perceptions of Mathematical Discourse

Abstract

This article analyzes teachers’ perceptions and experiences using an educative curriculum designed to promote high levels of mathematical discourse. After participating in 2 days of professional learning, grade 3 teachers implemented a predifferentiated and enriched mathematics unit in their classroom. The curriculum was designed to be educative, meaning that teaching it served as professional learning. During implementation, researchers conducted an observation of each treatment teacher and after implementation was complete teachers participated in a post interview about their experiences. Findings from this qualitative study indicate that after teaching the curriculum teachers understood the value of oral discourse and how to implement it in their classroom and could identify student benefits from participating in this type of curriculum. This study illuminates promising practices that may support teachers in implementing research-based best practices.