Opinions of Mathematics Teachers on the 8th Grade Mathematics Curriculum

Abstract

In this study, it is aimed to examine the effectiveness of the 8th grade mathematics curriculum in terms of objectives, content, learning experiences, evaluation methods and the ability to develop positive attitudes towards mathematics in students in line with teachers' opinions. Semi-structured interview technique was preferred in the study, which was designed as a case study, one of the qualitative research approaches. A semi-structured interview form developed by the researcher was used to be used during the interviews. The study group of the research consists of 17 secondary school mathematics teachers who have attended the classes of the 8th grade in the last 3 years (2018-2021) and are still working in official secondary schools affiliated to the Ministry of National Education. While determining the study group, criterion sampling method, which is one of the sampling methods suitable for the purpose, was used. Content analysis techn ique was used in the analysis of the collected data. Code, categories and themes were created. According to the research results; It is necessary to remove the achievements related to geometry subjects from the 8th grade mathematics curriculum and to simplify the curriculum. When the results about the content part of the curriculum are examined, it is seen that there is no problem. In terms of educational status sub-dimension, it has been stated that the distant goals of the Ministry of National Education can be achieved with an education that is material-supported and allows the student to explore, based on the learning-by-doing approach. The results of the test situations sub-dimension, although the importance of alternative assessment and evaluation methods are known, it is not preferred because some conditions cannot be met, and it has been concluded that peer and self-assessment are the most preferred and admired methods. According to the results of the attitude sub-dimension, in order for students to develop positive attitudes towards mathematics, the curriculum should be simplified and the subjects should be explained in an enriched manner with visual objects that allow the student to explore.