The effects of a preparatory mathematics program in changing prospective teachers' attitudes towards mathematics

Abstract

In this study the results of a project aimed at changing prospective teachers' attitudes towards mathematics are reported. A mathematics preparatory program was designed and implemented over a period of three years. The program consisted of two mathematics content courses, based on the history of mathematics, and a methods course. A multidimensional questionnaire, supplemented at the final stage by interviews, was used to follow up the subjects' attitudes through the implementation period. The results indicated significant improvement of attitudes, particularly about the satisfaction from and the usefulness of mathematics.