Numeracy: Life, School and Work (EDUC90687)

This subject provides an introduction to all the major themes of the course and to major DEECD initiatives and resources. The subject begins with the definition, roles and functions of numeracy. Evidence will be presented to demonstrate the importance of high level of numeracy to students for success at school, for future learning, and for full participation in the community and in the economy of the future. The way in which the use of complex technology requires higher cognitive skills will be exemplified. Participants will also examine: the roles of capacity, confidence and disposition in being numerate; Australian students’ performance in numeracy and mathematics in national and international assessments; government initiatives around numeracy; major assessment tools and their interpretation; the numeracy-related roles and needs of all teachers, the numeracy needs of interdisciplinary content areas.