Research Symposium

BIO

Sarah Willems is a sophomore biochemistry student from Fort Myers, Florida. Sarah is part of the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), focusing on effective mathematics instruction for students with disabilities. In addition to UROP, Sarah is a learning assistant for general chemistry and volunteers at the hospital. After completing her undergraduate degree, Sarah plans to attend graduate school to pursue a career in medicine.

Teacher Preparation for Teaching Mathematics to Students with Disabilities

Abstract

Skills related to mathematics are important concepts for all people to understand, including individuals with disabilities. Despite the importance of mathematics, special education teachers report feeling unprepared to teach mathematics and general education teachers report feeling unprepared to teach students with disabilities, despite the fact the majority students with disabilities receive instruction in general education classrooms. The primary goal of this nationwide survey is to elicit the opinions of subject matter experts (SMEs) to see what practices and approaches, including course hours and practice-based learning opportunities are recommended when preparing preservice teachers and what practices and approaches are happening within Institutions of Higher Education. The responses of general education and special education faculty who are preparing preservice were compared to see what differences exist between their perceptions of instructional responsibilities, teaching practices, and practice-based learning opportunities that are provided.

Keywords: teaching, education, mathematics, disabilities