George Mason University is leading a project that focuses on increasing Virginia math and science teachers' understanding of measurement concepts. The goals of the project are to enable teachers to instruct students on using measuring devices accurately and precisely, reporting and recording data appropriately, and manipulating data according to standard practices agreed upon nationally and internationally. The project, Measurement Skills and Data Analysis in Science and Mathematics, is directed by Donna Sterling, associate professor in George Mason's Graduate School of Education. It provides an opportunity for 120 math and science teachers in grades four through eight in 21 school districts across Virginia to attend a weeklong summer course to increase their knowledge and understanding of measuring skills and common errors in measurement. The course is taught by instructors from state colleges and universities partnering in the project with George Mason.
Adults commit the same errors students often make.
Instructors attend a one-day training session, and two instructors from each participating university teach the course to teachers in local school districts. A follow-up day is held in the fall to give teachers a chance to discuss what students have learned, problem areas and other approaches to teaching measurement and data analysis skills. The project is a partnership between the Virginia Mathematics and Science Coalition, George Mason University, the College of William and Mary, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia.