Knowing and Teaching Elementary Mathematics: Teachers' Understanding of Fundamental Mathematics in China and the United States (Studies in Mathematical Thinking and Learning.)

Rating:
Summary: A book that will change mathematics teaching/learning.
Review: This book provides a starting place for an important and long overdue discussion. Teachers, mathematicians and preservice programs could come together to develop professional development programs around this one book. Understanding our own misunderstandings in mathematics will help to change instructional practice. Every school should have at least one copy.

Rating:
Summary: Highest recommendation to teachers and educators
Review: This is education research at its best. It directly points the way to better classroom preformance, which is ultimately what education research is about. It gives a very persuasive argument that good mathematics teaching must start with a total command of the relevant mathematics. Its implications on the professional development of mathematics teachers should be taken to heart by educators, state agencies, and administrators.

Rating:
Summary: Clear discussion of why math teaching in Asia is so good.
Review: With exceptional clarity, Ma compares American and Chinese teachers by discussing their responses to four teaching situations. The Chinese teachers, despite less formal education, have a much deeper understanding of the elementary mathematics they are teaching. Ma explores the components of what she calls "profound understanding of fundamental mathematics," and also the professional conditions that encourage it. Highly recommended for anyone involved in the preparation or professional development of teachers. Also highly recommended for educational policy makers.