The project conducts a large scale, research and technical assistance
project that investigates the nature of elementary and middle school principals'
knowledge of mathematics and beliefs about mathematics teaching and learning
through the construct of Leadership Content Knowledge (LCK) and its effect
on their practices of classroom observation and teacher supervision.
The project addresses the key MSP features of teacher retention, challenging
courses and curricula and sustainability. All interested MSPs that address
middle school mathematics will have the opportunity to participate. Phase
I of the work yields diagnostic information about the principals' level
of LCK which MSPs can use as a needs assessment. In Phase II half of
the participants will receive leadership training in mathematics teaching
and learning as an intervention to explore aspects of LCK that change
most readily and those that are more resistant to change. Phase III will
use comparative case studies to address how principals with known LCK
conduct classroom observations, make judgments about the quality of instruction,
and indirectly, affect students' mathematics achievement. The research
allows the PI to refine instruments that assess the multidimensional aspects
of LCK that will be shared through the MSP Learning Network.
|