TUSKEGEE, Ala. - (August 24, 2006) - The third annual Transforming East Alabama Mathematics, or TEAM-Math Conference, will be presented on Aug. 25-26 at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center.
The conference focuses on the mathematical preparation of K-12 teachers with special emphasis on building partnerships between educators and mathematicians. Other key issues will be addressed through guest speakers, round table discussions and other conference activities.
"By partnering, we can pool our resources, experiences and expertise together to mathematically educate East Alabama." said Dr. Mohammed Qazi, a professor of mathematics at Tuskegee.
Specific goals of the TEAM-Math Conference include the following:
- To provide participants with insights into instructional methods that may support the effective mathematical preparation for K-12 teachers.
- To encourage mathematicians and mathematics educators to work more collaboratively in the preparation of K-12 teachers of mathematics and in promoting improvements in K-12 education.
- To encourage collaboration on the recruitment and retention of prospective mathematics and mathematics education majors.
- To provide mathematicians and mathematics educators with access to information and resources needed to improve mathematics teaching and learning.
TEAM-Math was awarded a $9 million grant from the National Science Foundation that partners Tuskegee University, Auburn University and 15 East Alabama school districts to improve mathematics in each district.
The funding provides intensive professional development for all teachers in east Alabama, redefines the way universities prepare new teachers of mathematics and involves parents, community members and businesses in mathematics education.
"Tuskegee is currently involved with enhancing mathematics courses through technology and hands-on activities," said Dr. Carolyn Gathright, Tuskegee's Department Head of Curriculum and Instruction.
Tuskegee University currently ranks among the top 20 for producers of African Americans receiving baccalaureate degrees in mathematics and statistics.
Three nationally known mathematicians will serve as keynote speakers during the conference. The University of Maryland's Dr. Patricia Campbell, whose research addresses the teaching and learning of elementary mathematics, professional development, instructional change and system reform; Princeton University's Dr. William A. Massey, whose research interests include dynamical queuing systems, applied probability and the operations of communication services and systems; and the University of Georgia's Dr. Pat Wilson, whose research relates to using practice to inform the teaching of mathematics.
Three years ago east Alabama ranked the lowest among all areas of the state and in the country due to significant performance gaps between students of different race or ethnicity, socioeconomic status and ability levels.
"We have made headway and some progress in achieving the mission of TEAM-Math. There has been a lot of positive outcome from the project, but there's still work to be done," said Dr. Qazi. "We want to improve mathematic literacy for all students."
For more information visit the University's Web site, www.tuskegee.edu.
