Beendete Mitarbeit:
Binder, Cornelia; PHSt, 2022-2023;
Gruber Christoph, PHSt, 2020-2023;
Kelz Jakob, PHSt, 2024-2025;
Fellmann Anne, PH Kärnten, 2019-2020;
Haider, Rosina; PPH Augustinum, 2019-2023;
Holzer Norbert, PPH Augustinum, 2019-2020
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Mathematical Content Knowledge and Affective Characteristics of Primary Teacher Education Students in Austria
This project investigates the development of mathematical content knowledge of primary teacher education students in Austria, with a particular focus on the interplay between affective characteristics (e.g. interest, self-concept, attitudes) and the development of content knowledge as well as professional competence. It is based on the assumption that well-developed mathematical competencies constitute a key prerequisite for high-quality mathematics instruction. Studies in German-speaking countries indicate that prospective teachers sometimes lack sufficient mathematical knowledge to adequately teach fundamental concepts at the primary level.
The aim of the project is therefore to systematically assess students’ mathematical knowledge at the beginning and at the end of their bachelor’s programme and to analyse its development over the course of their studies. In addition, affective characteristics are examined in order to explore their relationship with content knowledge and the development of professional competence.
The research design combines cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. First-year students are assessed at the beginning of their studies using standardized test instruments and are compared with upper secondary school students from different school types. For the longitudinal perspective, student cohorts are followed throughout their studies and reassessed at the end of the programme.
The results are intended to provide insights into the extent to which students already possess sufficient mathematical competencies at the beginning of their studies and how these develop over the course of their education. Based on these findings, implications can be derived for the design of teacher education programmes as well as for measures to support the development of fundamental mathematical competencies.