
In a rapidly changing and increasingly complex world, it is essential to move beyond simply accumulating information. This course is designed to enhance students' knowledge and skills to use mathematics as a tool to support and develop children's thinking abilities. Through theory, practical application, and methods such as kindergarten observations, project-based work, and challenge-based learning, students will learn to integrate mathematical concepts in meaningful ways to strengthen children's analytical and critical thinking skills. By equipping children with these tools, the course aims to foster sustainable decision-making and problem-solving for the future. This course has as one of its unique features the fact that it is developed entirely within a kindergarten, where theory and practice will be in constant exchange. The theoretical instructors from UiS and the kindergarten teachers from Sande Barnehage will be partners in leading the course.
These are the teamchers you'll work with on the challenge.
Students will have advanced knowledge of concepts such as: Critical thinking, problem-solving, practice-based deep learning, embodied education, and children's participation; Practical applications of mathematics to promote children's thinking skills and the crucial role of kindergarten teachers in facilitating these processes.
Students will be able to: Explain, explore, and apply concepts related to children's thinking skills in a practical context; Create and develop personal and collective intrinsic motivation among colleagues to work with mathematics to support children's thinking skills; Develop a kindergarten environment that supports children's security and participation, essential for their thinking skills development.
Upon completing the micro-course, the student will be able to: Critically reflect on children's exploration and learning in early childhood settings, with a focus on how art and mathematics can be integrated to support pattern recognition and conceptual thinking; Communicate academic insights related to children’s mathematical and creative development effectively to colleagues and caregivers, contributing to an inclusive learning environment; Identify and facilitate activities that promote children’s creative and mathematical understanding, aligning with national guidelines and evidence-based practices; Act independently and collaborate in planning and implementing pedagogical activities that merge art and mathematics, emphasizing child participation and diversity.
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