Advanced Mathematical Knowledge in Teaching Practice: Perceptions of Secondary Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

For the purpose of our research we define Advanced Mathematical Knowledge (AMK) as knowledge of the subject matter acquired during undergraduate studies at colleges or universities. We examine the responses of secondary school teachers about their usage of AMK in teaching. We find that the majority of teachers focus on the purposes and advantages of their AMK for student learning, such as personal confidence, the ability to make connections, and to respond to students' questions; only a few provide content-specific examples. We conclude with a call for a more articulated relationship between AMK and mathematical knowledge for teaching.