Caroline Long

Approaches to teaching primary level mathematics

Authors: Caroline Long and Tim Dunne This research explores approaches to the mathematics curriculum in the primary school in South Africa in order to understand why the mathematics standard is dropping; why learners are not grasping mathematical concepts easily; and where the ‘disconnect’ is between policy makers, educators and learners. There are three approaches involved …

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A model for assessment: integrating external monitoring with classroom-based practice

Authors: Caroline Long, Tim Dunne & Gabriel Mokoena For some time, education departments have believed that the more we test, the more likely it will be that the education system will improve. However, there has been little substantial improvement in the areas of greatest need. Obviously socio-economic disadvantage needs to be factored in. Another possible …

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Investigating the treatment of missing data in an Olympiad-type test – the case of the selection validity in the South African Mathematics Olympiad

Authors: Caroline Long, Johann Engelbrecht, Vanessa Scherman and Tim Dunne The objectives of the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO) are to generate enthusiasm and interest in mathematics; to enrich the study of mathematics; to promote mathematical problem-solving proficiency; to equip contestants for university level mathematical thinking; and to identify and inform selection of the finest …

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An application of the Rasch measurement theory to an assessment of geometric thinking levels

Authors: Gerrit Stols, Caroline Long and Tim Dunne A six-month geometry course was given to pre-service teachers at the University of Pretoria. To see what, if any, difference it had made to the students’ proficiency. The CDASSG Van Hiele Geometry Test was administered both before and after the course. This test evaluates students’ performance in …

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Mathematics, curriculum and assessment: The role of taxonomies in the quest for coherence

Authors: Caroline Long, Tim Dunne and Hendrik de Kock Bloom’s taxonomy is one of the taxonomies most frequently used for assessment, curriculum design and defining goals for instructional activities. However, it does not provide adequate feedback to teachers on how to improve or direct instructional activities; and neither does it fully relate to the assessment …

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An investigation of Mathematical Literacy assessment supported by an application of Rasch measurement

Authors: Caroline Long, Sarah Bansilal and Rajan Debba Mathematical Literacy (ML) is a fairly new subject in secondary schools and work needs to be done on ways of assessing students’ competence. Tests need to be very carefully designed and marked if they are to be a reliable instrument and provide useful information to teachers and …

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