This project will upgrade the mathematics skills and teaching techniques of teachers of grades K through 6. The project consists of courses and activities offered at two levels. Level I courses and activities are offered for teachers from grades K-3 and Level II courses and activities for teachers from grades 4-6. Twenty different participants will be selected for each of these two levels during both 1986-87 and 1987-88. Participants will be selected from within a 50-mile radius of Jackson State University. The program for each level will consist of both academic-year workshops and a summer workshop. The academic-year component will consist of twelve evening sessions each semester and nine Saturday sessions. During the evening sessions the participants will work with course content and methodology. During the Saturday meetings the participants will discuss and share ideas regarding methods employed to effectively implement their experiences. Experts in the areas of teaching techniques and computer and calculator use, will be invited as guest lecturers. Principals and superintendents will be invited to attend the Saturday sessions. During the summer workshop, teachers will work one-on-one with elementary school students. Emphasis will be placed on recognizing individual differences and adapting teaching methods to such differences, on relating to learners with different interests and backgrounds, and on planning and using a variety of teaching methods.
