Secondary mathematics teachers are frequently required to take a large
number of mathematics courses - including advanced mathematics courses
such as abstract algebra - as part of their initial teacher preparation
program and/or their continuing professional development. The content
areas of advanced and secondary mathematics are closely connected. Yet,
despite this connection many secondary teachers insist that such
advanced mathematics is unrelated to their future professional work in
the classroom.
This edited volume elaborates on some of the connections between
abstract algebra and secondary mathematics, including why and in what
ways they may be important for secondary teachers. Notably, the volume
disseminates research findings about how secondary teachers engage with,
and make sense of, abstract algebra ideas, both in general and in
relation to their own teaching, as well as offers itself as a place to
share practical ideas and resources for secondary mathematics teacher
preparation and professional development.
Contributors to the book are scholars who have both experience in the
mathematical preparation of secondary teachers, especially in relation
to abstract algebra, as well as those who have engaged in related
educational research. The volume addresses some of the persistent issues
in secondary mathematics teacher education in connection to advanced
mathematics courses, as well as situates and conceptualizes different
ways in which abstract algebra might be influential for teachers of
algebra. Connecting Abstract Algebra to Secondary Mathematics, for
Secondary Mathematics Teachers is a productive resource for mathematics
teacher educators who teach capstone courses or content-focused methods
courses, as well as for abstract algebra instructors interested in
making connections to secondary mathematics.
