The Observation of Mathematics Learning Environments

• In Event: Poster Session 17
  In Poster Session: Instrumentation for Measuring Teacher Knowledge for Teaching

Abstract

Scaling Up Mathematics Achievement (SUMA) is a university/public school research project to determine if a building capacity model that resulted in closing the achievement gap in a rural district with 95% Hispanic students would work in a larger urban district with mixed ethnicities. An instrument, the Observation of Learning Environments (OLE) was developed to support researchers in gathering information about observable teaching/learning behaviors in math classrooms. Preliminarily data indicate a significant correlation with student achievement gains on a rigorous state math assessment. By focusing on key measurable elements within a mathematics-learning environment that support students’ learning, the OLE could be used by trained practitioners and administrators as a common metric for developing a coherent vision of effective math instruction.

Authors

• Cathy J. Kinzer, New Mexico State University

• Lisa Virag, New Mexico State University

• Kenneth M. Korn, New Mexico State University

• Sara Morales, New Mexico State University

• Rocio Benedicto, New Mexico State University