MSM Program of Study

CREDITS

11 ..................DISCRETE MATHEMATICS, GEOMETRY, STATISTICS

  • Math 547, Discrete Mathematics and Applications .......4 credits (summer 2000)
    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 2000)
    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 1999)
    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 semester on campus) Statistical concepts and procedures for analyzing educational data. Descriptive statistics, correlation tests, t-tests, and chi square with computer applications.

7......................CONTINUOUS MATHEMATICS

  • Math 545, Intermediate Calculus .........4 credits (summer 1998)
    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 1998)
    The use of technology in secondary mathematics with an emphasis on the exploration and implementation of algorithms.

3...................... SEMINAR

  • Math 540, Seminar in Mathematics Education .......3 credits (summer 1999)
    Research studies in mathematics learning and teaching, exemplary practices in mathematics education, and current state and national trends in themathematics curriculum in grades K-12.

10-13................ ELECTIVES

May be selected from professional studies, computer science, psychology, mathematical sciences or physics. At least three credits must be at the 500 or 600 level. Electives may be chosen to fulfill community college certification requirements. To fulfill community college certification three courses must be taken: Higher Education 561(2 credits, College Teaching), Higher Education 562 (3 credits, Curriculum Development), and Higher Education 582 (3 credits, Comprehensive Community College). Other useful electives include
Classroom Strategies with Microcomputers (Curr 505), Advanced Classroom Strategies with Microcomputers (Curr 510) and Computer Supported Learning (Curr 558).

3-6....................CREATIVE COMPONENT

  • Math 599, Creative Component
    Formal research paper on a topic related to mathematics education.

36 credits ...........TOTAL


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 1998: Math 545, 546
Summer 1999: Math 540 and Stat 401
Summer 2000: Math 547, 549

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 one of these summers, 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 515/294-0013; ask to be transferred to the instructor.

Master of School Mathematics Information:

Note: Click on the appropriate category for more information.