Abstract
This study reports on results from the Early Mathematics Beliefs and Confidence Survey, administered to 346 preschool teachers in a large public school system in the Midwest. Survey results depict a much more positive view of teachers’ beliefs and confidence in early math teaching than previously reported. Results also suggest that teacher confidence varies with specific types of math knowledge and teaching abilities, and assessing math learning is a specific area where teachers lack confidence. Examining confidence in their math abilities and in teaching early math, results indicate that teachers are more confident teaching math and remain confident in teaching even when confidence in their abilities is low. Implications of results for early math professional development are discussed.
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Acknowledgments
The work described here was supported with grants from the Field Foundation, the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, and CME Group Foundation. The views expressed in the article are those of the authors. Special thanks go to the state prekindergarten teachers and early childhood administrators in the Chicago Public Schools.
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Appendix: Early Math Beliefs and Confidence Survey
Appendix: Early Math Beliefs and Confidence Survey
Section 1: Beliefs About Preschoolers and Math
Below are some ideas we’ve heard from preschool teachers about preschoolers and math. On this page, please indicate what you think about these ideas.
For each of the following statements, rate your agreement by checking the appropriate box
Section 2: Confidence in Helping Preschoolers Learn Math
Some preschool teachers have told us they don’t feel comfortable helping preschoolers learn math. Others feel confident; still others say they are confident in some areas of math but not in others. On this page, please indicate how you feel about helping preschoolers learn math.
For each of the following statements, rate your agreement by checking the appropriate box
Section 3: Confidence in Your Math Abilities
Some preschool teachers have told us that they just aren’t good at math. Others say they love math. Still others say how they feel depends on the specific area of math. On this page, please indicate how you feel about math and your math abilities.
For each of the following statements, rate your agreement by checking the appropriate box
Thank you very much for sharing your experiences.
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Chen, JQ., McCray, J., Adams, M. et al. A Survey Study of Early Childhood Teachers’ Beliefs and Confidence about Teaching Early Math. Early Childhood Educ J 42, 367–377 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-013-0619-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-013-0619-0