Learning to Teach Mathematics in Small Groups: A Video Analysis of Preservice Teachers' Use of Questions

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: Engagement With the Teaching of Math

Abstract

Questioning is a crucial component of effective mathematics teaching and learning. It was suggested in the literature that training on questioning skills should be included in courses for pre-service teachers. Using video recorded lessons and preservice teachers’ comments and reflections, one primary purpose of this study was to examine the categories of questions posed by preservice teachers to students in small groups in terms of listing, instructing, assessing, initial questioning and follow-up questioning. Results indicated that the majority (75%) of questions posed by preservice teachers were used for instruction. Analyses of comments and reflections indicated that teaching in small groups facilitated pre-service teachers questioning training, but did not automatically allow them to reflect on effective questioning techniques.

Authors

• Xiaofang Zeng, Texas Tech University

• Raymond Flores, Texas Tech University

• Jian Wang, Texas Tech University

• Minju Yi, Texas Tech University