Master of School Mathematics Program of Study
Continuous Mathematics - 7
Math 545, Intermediate Calculus
4 credits (summer 2007)
Further development of the fundamental concepts of calculus and their applications with an emphasis on a constructivist approach to learning, cooperative groups, problem solving, and the use of technology.
Math 546, Algorithms in Analysis and Their Computer Implementation
3 credits (summer 2007)
The use of technology in secondary mathematics with an emphasis on the exploration and implementation of algorithms.
Discrete Mathematics, Geometry, Statistics - 10-11
Math 547, Discrete Mathematics and Applications
4 credits (summer 2006)
Applications of graph theory, game theory, linear programming, recursion, combinatorics, and algebraic structures. Issues in integrating discrete topics into the secondary curriculum. Use of the computer to explore discrete mathematics.
Math 549, Intermediate Geometry
3 credits (summer 2006)
A study of geometry with emphasis on metrics, the group of isometries, the group of similarities, and the affine group. Specific spaces studied normally include the Euclidean plane, the 2-sphere, and projective 2-space. Emphasis on analytical methods.
Stat 401, Statistical Methods for Research Workers
4 credits (summer 2008)
Methods of analyzing and interpreting experimental and survey data. Statistical concepts and models; estimation; hypothesis tests with continuous and discrete data; simple and multiple linear regression and correlation; introduction to analysis of variance.
or
ResEv 552, Basic Educational Statistics
3 credits (every fall on campus)
Statistical concepts and procedures for analyzing educational data. Descriptive statistics, correlation tests, t-tests, and chi square with computer applications.
Seminar - 3
Math 540, Seminar in Mathematics Education
3 credits (summer 2008)
Research studies in mathematics learning and teaching, exemplary practices in mathematics education, and current state and national trends in the mathematics curriculum in grades K-12.
Electives - 9-10
May be selected from professional studies, computer science, mathematical sciences or physics. At least three credits must be at the 500 or 600 level. Electives may be chosen to if you consider teaching at a community college: Higher Education 561(2 credits, College Teaching), Higher Education 562 (3 credits, Curriculum Development), and Higher Education 582 (3 credits, Comprehensive Community College). Other courses that may be of interest include Mathematics 533 (Cryptography, 3 credits), Curriculum and Instruction 505 (Instructional Technology in Teaching, 2 credits), and Curriculum and Instruction 570 (Toying with Technology for Practicing Teachers, 2 credits).
Creative Component - 3
Math 599, Creative Component
Formal paper communicating mathematical topic that is new the student.
TOTAL 33 credits
This program is structured so that most or all course work can be completed in three years. An example of such a program is as follows:
Summer 2006: Math 547, 549
Summer 2007: Math 545, 546
Summer 2008: Math 540, Stat 401
Courses above are tentatively scheduled as noted on campus and on the state's fiber optic system, the Iowa Communications Network-ICN.
The Creative Component (Math 599) can be taken during the last summer, with most of the actual research and writing done during the preceding year. This formal paper will be written under the direction of a major professor and the Program of Study Committee (POS). Electives can be taken in one or more of these summers or in an evening course. Transfer credits
are acceptable as Electives upon approval of the student's Program of Study (POS) committee.
- Each candidate for the MSM Program must earn a grade of B or better in Math 540, 545, 547, and 549.
- After all requirements have been met, a comprehensive final oral examination will be taken over the course work and creative component.
- Individuals may take the Master of School Mathematics courses without seeking a degree; however, students are encouraged to work toward the MSM degree.
- In some cases a student together with his or her POS Committee may believe it appropriate to modify the program of study described above. In such cases the student and his or her major professor may jointly petition the departmental Graduate Committee, which may approve such changes as they believe reasonable and consistent with the intent of the MSM Program.
- To set up a program of study, MSM students select a POS committee: two faculty members from mathematics and a third from another department. The committee could meet occasionally by ICN or the student may want to come to campus to meet with the committee. The student's major professor will probably do advising by telephone.
For more information:
Questions concerning prerequisites and qualifications for a specific course may be obtained by calling Extended Education at 800.262.0015 or Department of Mathematics 515.294.1752; ask to be transferred to the instructor.
