Integrating Math and Health to Support Underrepresented K–8 Children's Learning and Preservice Teachers' Knowledge of Interdisciplinary Integration in Urban Classrooms

• In Event: Establishing a Culture of Equity in Teacher Preparation and Development

Abstract

This project aimed at reducing inequalities in STEM access in underrepresented urban classrooms by training pre-service teachers to integrate health and math in supporting students' math learning using a problem-based learning approach. The pre-service teachers learned math and health integration and developed fun children math literature books with problem-based learning activities in in nutrition, physical exercises, health, the use of electronic devices, and health behavior. They taught these fun activities using children literature books in their fieldwork. The results of the study show that all children made progress in math skills, health knowledge, and disposition toward STEM learning. The pre-service teachers also enhanced their disposition and knowledge of integration as well as providing equal STEM access to all children.

Authors

• Shuhua An, California State University - Long Beach

• Zhonghe Wu, National University