Mathematics and Science Education (Birth to 5)

This course will develop preservice teachers who are knowledgeable about how children birth to five years of age explore mathematics and science in their environment in the early years. Preservice teachers will examine children's (babies', toddlers' and preschoolers') intuitive construction of mathematical and scientific understanding, processes and attitudes in an integrated way. Preservice teachers will develop learner centred approaches to learning scientific and mathematical ideas. Preservice teachers will apply planning and evaluation strategies with an emphasis on informal approaches and provision of encouragement and directions for further learning. Preservice teachers will evaluate and critique a variety of structured and informal materials, print and IT resources suitable for all children.