Britannica and The Math Forum @ Drexel to Provide Professional Development for Math in Context

CHICAGO, IL, Apr 29 (MARKET WIRE) --
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. and The Math Forum @ Drexel University
will collaborate to provide teacher training for the Mathematics in
Context (MiC) middle-school curriculum beginning this fall.

The two organizations said they'll combine their resources to produce a
rich package of six-week online courses for teachers using the
Britannica-published MiC program. Courses not only will provide
instruction on how best to use the curriculum but also introduce teachers
to a network of colleagues using the same program and give them a wealth
of digital resources to help them in their teaching and careers.

The facilitator-led courses, which will allow enrollees to go online to
study and complete assignments at their convenience, will focus on
strategies to solve problems selected from Mathematics in Context and real
work done by students using the program. Teachers will submit their
students' work online, examine it and discuss it with the facilitator and
colleagues and evaluate student learning. Developed on the foundation of
The Math Forum's extensive experience working with students and educators,
the courses will help teachers develop their students' problem-solving
strategies and gain confidence at all levels in solving interesting
problems.

"Mathematics in Context emphasizes the dynamic nature of mathematics,"
said Trina Williams, director of mathematics with Encyclopaedia
Britannica. "It recognizes that there are multiple paths to correct
solutions and gives students latitude in finding strategies that work for
them. Given that, it's valuable for teachers to look at the actual work
students do and have a chance to discuss it with other teachers. That's
what we'll concentrate on in the courses."

"We are pleased to be able to work with Encyclopaedia Britannica on this
program as part of our mission of helping to address the challenges facing
math educators," indicated Steve Weimar, Director of The Math Forum.
"Specifically, this program will leverage the success the Math Forum has
had in helping teachers get reluctant students, as well as mathematically
talented ones, to engage in mathematical thinking and communication."

Interested schools or school districts can call 800-621-3900 or go to
Britannica: http://info.eb.com.

The Math Forum @ Drexel: http://mathforum.org/

More on this announcement at http://snurl.com/gmrwe

Contact:
Tom Panelas
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
312-347-7309
Email Contact

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