International conference - teaching problem-solving in technology rich environments

When: 20 August 2019. 

Where: Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College hosted the event on behalf of the European partnership.

Attendees: Teachers of mathematics at Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3.

 Keynote addresses considered the following topics.

• Why should we teach problem-solving?
• How can technology support the teaching and learning of problem-solving?

 Keynote speakers included the following.

• Dr Alison Clark Wilson, former teacher who works as a Principal Research Lead for ERDF-funded EDUCATE Project at UCL Knowledge Lab, UCL Institute of Education.  Alison’s research interests concern school mathematics education in general but in particular: design and use of mathematical digital technologies; the related professional development experiences for teachers; and the impact of such technologies on mathematical thinking.
• Mr Raymond Caldwell, Education and Training Inspectorate, Assistant Chief Inspector for Early Years, Primary, and Post Primary.

 Professional learning seminars included the following. 

• Problem-solving approaches.
• Using GeoGebra to enrich problem solving.
• Using technology to present a problem-solving activity.
• Using technologies to develop problem-solving activities.
• Teaching problem solving in technology rich environments.

These interactive seminars explored a wide range of practical approaches, resources and research directly related to classroom practice. The seminars were led by the international partners of the Erasmus+ project. Opportunities to explore innovative practice, new resources and proven strategies to enhance teaching and learning of problem-solving in mathematics are limited in Northern Ireland.

For further information, please contact Jill Brown, Partnership coordinator jill.brown@csscni.org.uk or telephone 028 9031 3030