The theme of the 2012 PME-NA Conference is Navigating
Transitions Along Continuums. This theme was chosen to encourage
reflection on and discussion about transitions at various points
along a variety of continuums. The conference is organized around
four continuum groupings: student learning of
mathematics; professional learning ranging
from preservice mathematics teachers through teacher leaders; school
mathematics articulation from topic to topic within grade
levels as well as across grade bands; and innovation to
support mathematics learning from the smallest of scale to the largest.
Within these continuums, our goal is to focus on the challenges inherent
in transitioning from one phase to another. Focusing together on
critical issues related to transitions allows for greater synergy
across our research efforts.
Research aligned with the Navigating Transitions Along Continuums theme
may involve identifying important stages along continuums, understanding
transitions between stages, considering ways to assess learning at
key stages and/or key transitions, and investigating ways curriculum
and professional development support progress at these important transitions
along continuums. For example, if your work includes designing and
implementing an approach to teaching mathematics, your research may
be supportive of the conference theme in several different ways: (1) investigating
what occurs during the critical juncture during which students “understand”
using your approach (student learning); (2) examining what occurs
when teachers move from being novices to experts using your approach
(professional learning); (3) describing how your approach could
be used to support students as they move from one classroom to another
(school mathematics articulation); or (4) identifying the issues
and challenges that arise when broadening the use of your approach
from one classroom to a whole building (innovation).
Regardless of your research area, we encourage you to consider your
work through the perspective of transitions. By collectively focusing
on critical issues related to transitions, the conference will contribute
to a better understanding of how to effectively navigate them.
Continuums or Continua?
Both continuums and continua are considered acceptable options for the
plural of continuum. Although the conference materials use "continuums," strong
opinions about both options emerged during planning discussions. Express
your view and find out what others think by completing the brief poll
below.
Questions? Contact the Local Organizing Committee: math-pmena2012@wmich.edu
Banner design by the Design Center, Graphic Design Program, Frostic School of Art, Western Michigan University.
