Teachers’ Beliefs about the Nature, Teaching and Learning of Mathematics and Sources of these Beliefs

Mohammad Ahmad Alkhateeb

Abstract


This study aimed at investigating the beliefs of mathematics teachers and the relationship of these beliefs with their teaching practices, as well as the acquisition sources of these beliefs. The study population comprised (100) male and female teachers who were randomly selected out of those who teach the 12th graders. The study applied the quantitative and qualitative methods together. The data were collected through the beliefs questionnaire, note card and interview card. The results showed that the teachers hold a blend of swaying beliefs between the constructivism and the behaviorism about the nature of mathematics and math teaching. There was a lack of compatibility between the teachers' beliefs and their teaching practices. The results further showed that the main sources of mathematics teachers' acquisition of their beliefs were: the social surrounding, former teachers, university studies, technology, medias, self-reflection, personal experience, professional colleagueship, scientist, religious orientations, educational supervisors, examinations system and school principals.     

https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.18.11.20


Keywords


Teacher beliefs; Nature of mathematics; School mathematics; Belief systems; Teaching practices.

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References


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