Teacher Education in Mathematics
Overview
At JLU in Giessen, you can study to become a mathematics teacher for elementary schools ("Grundschule", L1), middle schools ("Haupt- und Realschule", L2), high schools ("Gymnasium", L3), vocational schools ("Berufsschule", BBB), and special education schools ("Förderschule", L5).
Profile
The mathematics program for teacher education is divided into specialized mathematics, mathematics education, and foundational sciences. The academic requirements for the specialized mathematics component vary across the different teacher education programs. In the L3 program, some modules are taken alongside bachelor’s students. In the L2 program, there are three subject-specific modules offered specifically for this track, but taught by professors of specialized mathematics. Instruction in the L1 program is provided entirely by the Institute for Mathematics Education. It is particularly advantageous for the L3 program if you enjoy problem-solving, delving into complex topics, and analyzing structures.
Program Structure
The first year of the L3 Mathematics program in Giessen consists of subject-specific and pedagogical modules on linear algebra and algebra. The second year includes modules on calculus and the pedagogy of calculus. A mandatory teaching practicum at a school takes place either in the 6th or 7th semester, and the subsequent course of study varies depending on the student’s choices. Below is an example of the course of study with the practicum semester in the 6th semester. The elective module in specialized mathematics can be chosen from Algebra, Calculus 3, Numerical Methods, Cryptography, and Discrete Structures. The program concludes with a state examination thesis (academic paper) and the exams for the First State Examination, which are administered by the Teacher Training Academy.
|
Semester |
Specialized Modules |
Teaching Methodology Modules |
|
1 + 2 |
Linear Algebra 1+2, Seminar |
Teaching Methods in Calculus |
|
3 + 4 |
Calculus 1+2 |
Teaching Methods in Calculus |
|
5 |
Stochastics |
Preparing for the internship semester |
|
6 |
- |
Internship semester, seminar |
|
7 |
Elective module |
|
|
8 |
Geometry |
Teaching Methods in Geometry |
The specialized training for the L2/L5 mathematics program in Giessen is conducted through the “Scientific Foundations of Mathematics Studies” (WGMS) modules during the first three semesters. A mandatory practicum semester at a school takes place either in the 5th or 6th semester, and the subsequent course of study varies depending on the student’s choices. Below is an example of the course of study with the practicum semester in the 6th semester. It is prepared for by a module in the 4th semester. The elective module in specialized mathematics can be chosen from Algebra, Analysis 3, Numerical Methods, Cryptography, and Discrete Structures.
|
Semester |
Specialized Modules |
Teaching Methodology Modules |
|
1 |
WGSM 1 - Geometry |
|
|
2 |
WGMS 2 – Algebra |
Teaching Methods in Geometry |
|
3 |
WGSM 3 – Combinatorics and Probability Theory |
Teaching Algebra |
|
4 |
- |
Methods of Teaching Mathematics |
|
5 |
|
Preparation for the internship semester, seminar |
|
6 |
|
Internship semester |
In the elementary school teacher education program, mathematics is one of three subjects, one of which is studied as a major subject with L2 content. The course of study for mathematics as a minor or major subject differs as follows.
Mathematics as a minor subject is studied over 4 semesters:
|
Semester |
Modules |
|
1 + 2 |
Math for Grades 1–4 |
|
3 + 4 |
Mathematics Education in Elementary School |
If mathematics is the major, students must complete a practicum semester in the fifth or sixth semester. A sample study plan with the practicum semester in the fifth semester is shown below.
|
Semester |
Modules |
|
1 + 2 |
Math for Grades 1–4 |
|
3 + 4 |
Mathematics Education in Elementary School |
|
5 |
WGMS I or III |
|
6 |
Practicum semester, implementation, seminar, evaluation |
Preparation
We recommend that all incoming students in the Mathematics Education for High Schools (L3) program take the preparatory course in Mathematical Thinking. This course provides an opportunity to familiarize yourself with both the mathematics and the course formats as they will be later in the program.
We recommend that students in the L2, BBB, and L5 programs take the preparatory course “Teaching Mathematics L2/L5.”
Students who wish to review high school material can take the general preparatory course in mathematics. However, this course is not a substitute for the preparatory courses listed above.
Formales
The program is governed by the academic regulations. There you will also find a sample study plan and descriptions of the modules offered. The Office of Academic Affairs at the Center for Teacher Education is responsible for examination procedures.
Academic Advising
The academic advisors for this program are Oleg Davydov and Klaus Metsch. Please schedule an appointment by email.