Problem-Solving Cycle and Teacher Leadership Preparation

Introduction

All across the United States, mathematics teachers are being asked to implement new curriculum, interact with their students in different ways, and have a much deeper knowledge of mathematics content than ever before. The key is to professionalize the field of math teaching. We posit that teachers should be treated as professionals and, as such, have access to sustainable, long-term opportunities to expand and share their knowledge. 

The Problem-Solving Cycle (PSC) model presents one such opportunity. When teachers participate in this highly adaptable model, they become part of a professional learning community. This community engages in mathematical problem solving, examines video of classroom teaching, and shares ideas about teaching and learning mathematics. By electing to take part in the PSC, teachers demonstrate their commitment to broadening their knowledge base and, consequently, to becoming better able to support their students’ learning of mathematics.

"After 20 years of teaching, it (PSC) has given me fresh eyes, like I’m a brand new teacher. The lens of the questions that I want to ask of my students and how they learn and why they’re doing things the way they do--I wasn't thinking that way. Maybe once in a while, but now it’s almost a constant lens. It’s due to these amazing workshops and the ability to practice this stuff with our peers in a safe environment."

--PSC Teacher Leader

The Problem-Solving Cycle Facilitator's Guide explains each component of the cycle in more depth with examples, suggestions, and rationale. This guide is currently being finalized and will be made available shortly.

Principal Investigators and Leadership

Hilda Borko, PhD

Janet Carlson, PhD

Rebecca Deutscher, PhD

SFUSD Leaders