Graduate Diploma in Mathematics Education: Standard pathway

Stage 1

We recommend that you begin your studies with Mathematical thinking in schools (ME620)Mathematical thinking in schools::This course is designed to help you develop your knowledge and understanding of the teaching of mathematics. It is suitable for any Key Stage, and will broaden your ideas about how people learn and use mathematics. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on two tutor-marked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. In order to complete the assessments, you will need access to learners of mathematics. Students on this course have worked with a variety of learners from Key Stage 2 pupils to adults. Places are allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, so you should register as early as you can.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.V14-1,module,ME620,,1. This 30-credit module will develop your knowledge and understanding of the teaching of mathematics, with an emphasis on Key Stage 3, and broaden your ideas about how people learn and use mathematics.

For the other 90 credits you can choose from the following:

• Developing algebraic thinking (ME625)Developing algebraic thinking::This course is for you if you are interested in developing your knowledge and understanding of the learning of algebra particularly at Key Stages 2–4. It integrates development of the core ideas of algebra with relevant pedagogical constructs and principles, and will extend your awareness of how people learn and use algebra. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on three tutor-marked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. In order to complete the course assessments, you will need access to learners of algebra at Key Stages 2–4, which could include adult learners.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.V14-1,module,ME625,,1 – this 30-credit module will develop your understanding of how people learn and use algebra at Key Stages 2–4, and of different teaching constructs and principles.
• Developing geometric thinking (ME627)Developing geometric thinking::Develop your knowledge and understanding of the learning of geometry particularly at Key Stages 2–4. This course integrates development of the core ideas of geometry with relevant pedagogical constructs and principles, and will extend your awareness of how people learn and use geometry. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on three tutor-marked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. To complete these assessments, you’ll need access to learners of geometry at Key Stages 2–4, which could include adult learners.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.V14-1,module,ME627,,1 –this 30-credit module will develop your understanding of the learning of geometry at Key Stages 2-4, and explore a range of different teaching approaches and develop your geometric thinking.
• Developing statistical thinking (ME626)Developing statistical thinking::This course will help you develop your knowledge, appreciation and understanding of the learning of statistics particularly at Key Stages 2 to 4. As well as improving your statistical thinking, you’ll learn about different teaching approaches, including use of ICT tools such as graphics calculators and computers. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on three tutor-marked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. To complete these assessments, you’ll need access to learners of statistics at Key Stages 2–4, which could include adult learners.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.V14-1,module,ME626,,1 – this 30-credit module explores the learning of statistics and data handling at Key Stages 2–4, and investigates different teaching approaches, including the use of ICT tools.
• Researching mathematics learning (ME825)Researching mathematics learning::This course is designed for the professional development of anyone working with learners of mathematics – whether as a teacher, classroom assistant, lecturer, adviser or parent. You’ll develop ways of exploring mathematics teaching and learning; interpret current thinking on the subject; and investigate aspects of the social and political context. You will consider tasks to generate pupils’ activity and explore the impact of different tasks on learners. You’ll also reflect and work on you own mathematics, develop your mathematical autobiography and explore further the readings and ideas that influence you most.undergraduate.qualification.pathways.V14-1,module,ME825,,1 – this 60-credit postgraduate module offers a valuable insight into the teaching and learning of mathematics for anyone involved – from classroom assistants and teachers to lecturers and parents.

If you have already completed some successful study at higher education level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards an Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible, and before you register for your chosen qualification. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.

Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.