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| Mathematics Achievement through Problem Solving (MAPS). The primary goals of this complete, one-year curriculum using teachers as facilitators are to increase the problem-solving ability and the conceptual understanding of mathematics in general mathematic students (typically 9th graders). |
Audience Approved by PEP for first-year secondary general mathematics students (typically 9th graders).
Description The Mathematics Achievement through Problem Solving (MAPS) program is designed to replace the existing first-year secondary general mathematics program. The curriculum is grounded in the constructivist perspective, therefore, students build conceptual frameworks while they are engaged in activities requiring problem solving and decision making. The teacher functions as a facilitator rather than a disseminator. Extensive use of investigations and small-group problem solving enable students to construct generalizations of mathematical concepts and relationships. Students also learn to use calculators and computers as problem-solving tools. Learning materials consist of ten strands, including estimation and mental arithmetic, heuristic problem solving, number concepts, spatial visualization, including estimation and mental arithmetic, heuristic problem solving, number concepts, spatial visualization, probability, statistics, measurement, applied problem solving, intuitive algebra, and computer problem solving. This program strengthens mathematics education, which is part of the first objective of the national goals for science and mathematics education.
Evidence of Effectiveness Students participating in the program score significantly higher on a project-developed and validated criterion-referenced test of problem-solving ability, achieve consistently higher ratings in a content analysis of their work on the posttest, and score higher overall on the Indiana Statewide Test of Educational Progress (ISTEP) Mathematical Concepts and Applications subscore than comparison students in traditional general mathematics classes.
Requirements A five-day intensive workshop for teachers focused on understanding collaborative learning, the problem-centered curriculum, the constructivist perspective, and the classroom atmosphere needed to implement the MAPS program is required. Regular meetings with other MAPS teachers and attendance at a one- or two-day follow-up conference a year later is highly recommended.
Costs Training costs consist of $1600 plus travel expenses for presenters' fees and $50 per participant (typically 20 people) for workshop materials. Duplication expenses are $8 per student the first year and $4.50 per student in subsequent years. Manipulative expenses vary.
Services In addition to training and materials, MAPS provides newsletters, exchange visits, follow-up meetings, consultations, and classroom visitations.
Developmental Funding: Indiana Commission of Higher Education, Indiana Department of Education, and School Mathematics and Science Center at Purdue University.
PEP No. 92-6 (3/92)
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[Sci-Math]