Fee-free graduate certificate in primary maths teaching offered

Following the success of Open Polytechnic’s primary science teaching qualifications, the new fee-free Graduate Certificate in Primary Mathematics Teaching (Curriculum) is now open for enrolments.

It is widely acknowledged that many primary teachers feel a lack of confidence when teaching mathematics. With mathematics being part of the National Standards structure, Open Polytechnic provides a vocational qualification that builds the skills of teachers so they are able to gain the best results for their students and for the school.

Open Polytechnic is New Zealand’s largest specialist provider of distance learning. The online courses have been designed with inquiry-based learning in mind, and the belief that mathematics can be fun. The design of the new courses builds on the success of the award-winning primary science teaching qualifications (winner of the 2014 DEANZ eLearning Excellence Award).

“It has been a team effort getting the first courses online, with courses written by primary teachers and expert teacher educators in consultation with principals and teachers,” Open Polytechnic lecturer Michael Fenton says.

“There is a mix of readings, case studies, videos and interactive resources, many of these are classroom-ready for immediate use.

“The hands-on element is integral to the learning of the teachers, which is what research tells us is missing for students in the classroom. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a real difference in classrooms across the country.”

The qualification uses the same approach used in Open Polytechnic’s primary science teaching qualifications to improve primary teachers’ knowledge, competence and confidence. The curriculum within the Graduate Certificate in Primary Mathematics Teaching (Curriculum) has been divided into manageable chunks, enabling teachers to develop and use resources in their own classroom as part of the assessment.

The qualification is specifically designed for in-service teachers and can be studied while still teaching.

“This development is in response to the need for increased mathematics teaching capability across the school sector to support and encourage students proceeding into mathematics, science and technology specialisations thus contributing to the government agenda for increased innovation and entrepreneurship,” head of the School of Science and Technology at Open Polytechnic Dr Lily Belabun says.

If teachers enrol before February 17 they will be eligible to study this qualification fee free.