Mathematics Education, PhD Programme

Study programme code MATDI-DR

ECTS credits 180

Admission requirements

To be admitted to the programme, applicants must have obtained a higher degree (masters degree or equivalent) in the discipline of their application, that is Mathematics, Mathematics Education or a closely related discipline. In addition applicants should have Teacher Education and should have achieved a reasonable level of competence in Mathematics Education.

More information for overseas applicants may be found at the following web address: http://www.uia.no/en/portaler/om_universitetet/teknologi_og_realfag/phd/doktorgrad

General description and profile of the programme

The aim of the programme is to contribute to the student's knowledge of the broad theoretical perspectives used in the discipline of Mathematics Education and to fosters the development of independent research skills in the field of Mathematics Education. Research may relates to all levels of schooling and to all levels of the education system.

The programme consists of two parts.
The course part comprises 60 ECTS credits. The course part consist of a core of compulsory course work, augmented either by furter courses, contribution at seminars, publications or similar.

The research comprises 120 ECTS credits. The research will be supervised by experienced supervisors and will result in a Doctoral dissertation. The dissertation shall be defended in a public disputation.

The programme aims to develope the candidate's capacity for critical analysis and ability to pursue scholarly and programmatic research in the field.

The following courses are offered at the University of Agder (the courses will not be offered every year):
MA-601 Theory of Science from a Perspective of Mathematics Education
MA-602 Theories in the Learning and Teaching of Mathematics
MA-604 Problem-Solving Research in Mathematics Education

MA-606 The history of Mathematics with Emphasis on Modern Mathematics
MA-607 Research Methodology in Mathematics Education
MA-611 Mathematics Teaching and Learning in an ICT-rich Environment: Theories, Tools and Digital Competence

MA-620 The history of Mathematics

Specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning (formal, non-formal and informal) Arrangements for the recognition of prior learning are described in the information on the institution under "General arrangements for the recognition of prior learning (formal, informal and non-formal)".

Examination regulations and grading For a description of the examination regulations, see the Examination Regulations of the University of Agder.

For information about the Norwegian grading system, see ECTS credits and grades. Specific information on grading for each course is found in the individual course descriptions.

Graduation requirements The Examination Regulations of the University of Agder regulate the graduation requirements for each programme of study.

Learning outcomes

It is expected that after completing the programme students will be able to

• Relate and apply the acquired knowledge and skills to critically analyse, evaluate and synthesise perspectives developed in the broader framework of the knowledge in the relevant dicsiplinary area
• Plan, design and implement scolarly research leading to both the creation of knowledge and also offering solutions to the problems of teaching and learning in mathematics

Display competencies in leadership, creativity and independence in work - and synthesise new and appropriate relationships to solve complex problems that involve many factors relating to teaching and learning mathematics

Teaching methods The PhD programme comprises taught courses of 60 study points and the writing of a research-based dissertation with supervision. Course work comprises attendance and participation in lectures, seminars, collaborative tasks and practical workshops.

Assessment methods Students work on courses part is assessed through essays.
The students have to write a research-based dissertation.

Occupational profiles of graduates and access to further studies The PhD programme qualifies graduates for research in Mathematics Education. The PhD programme provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to engage in the scientific discipline of Mathematics Education at the highest levels of teaching and research in the field.
The programme equips students for work in teacher education and educational consultancy in mathematics education, and teaching and researching in mathematics and mathematics education.

Qualification awarded PhD in Mathematics Education.

Contact person Professor Barbro Grevholm
Faculty of Engineering and Sciences
Gimlemoen, postboks 422
4604 Kristiansand
Phone: +47 38 14 16 39
Fax: +47 38 14 10 71
E-mail address: barbro.grevholm@uia.no