MURAL - Maynooth University Research Archive Library



    Recognizing professional development of mathematics and statistics learning support staff


    O’Sullivan, Ciaran, Grove, Michael, Mac an Bhaird, Ciaran, Mulligan, Peter and Pfeiffer, Kirsten (2024) Recognizing professional development of mathematics and statistics learning support staff. Teaching Mathematics and its Applications: An International Journal of the IMA, 43 (3). pp. 204-222. ISSN 0268-3679

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    Abstract

    Tutors play an important role in effective Mathematics Learning Support, and ensuring good initial training and development is key. Typically, in the UK and Ireland, tutors do not gain any formal recognition for the training they receive. This paper details a four competences model of training for tutors and presents the analysis of feedback from 11 tutors and two staff involved in piloting the model at two institutions. The model, which is informed by professional development guidelines, consultation across the mathematical sciences community, and enabled by a national Mathematics Learning Support Network, provides immediate recognition of the professional development undertaken and is amenable to formal accreditation. A structure of four digital badges is used to assign immediate value to the training and development of tutors. To add further value for tutors, a capstone tutor badge has been established for those completing all four competences. Thematic analysis of feedback from the piloting of the model identifies three overarching themes: the importance of community, developing as a professional, and motivating and enabling professional development. Although primarily of interest to those involved in Mathematics Learning Support, the innovative structure of the model and the insights gained from its piloting are such that it offers potential for genuine transferability across other subject disciplines.
    Item Type: Article
    Keywords: Recognizing; professional development; mathematics; statistics; learning support staff;
    Academic Unit: Assisting Living & Learning,ALL institute
    Faculty of Science and Engineering > Mathematics and Statistics
    Item ID: 19521
    Identification Number: 10.1093/teamat/hrae002
    Depositing User: Ciaran Mac an Bhaird
    Date Deposited: 25 Feb 2025 15:15
    Journal or Publication Title: Teaching Mathematics and its Applications: An International Journal of the IMA
    Publisher: Oxford Academic
    Refereed: Yes
    Related URLs:
    URI: https://mural.maynoothuniversity.ie/id/eprint/19521
    Use Licence: This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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