Math and computer science teachers from across the globe gather at the University of Waterloo for professional development
Welcome math and computing teachers!
The Waterloo Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) will host 150 elementary and secondary school teachers from across the province and around the world at two conferences this month.
High school computer studies educators in one of the Mathematics and Computer (MC) building labs, participating in a session called "Introduction to App Inventor: Enhance Your Introductory CS Course".
These professional development opportunities bring teachers together on campus at the University of Waterloo. For three days, they get to know one another in sessions and at meals, creating lasting supportive connections.
The Summer Conference for Computer Studies Educators takes place August 13-15. Computer Engineering and Computer Technology teachers network with each other, learning new skills and brainstorming classroom activity ideas. The conference helps teachers keep up with new developments in the field and features hands-on lab sessions.
Getting ready for September
Many schools have just one teacher covering all computer science and technology courses, so the teachers really value this chance to learn from one another in a face-to-face setting. The conference attracts both new teachers and their more experienced peers, all gearing up for the new school year beginning in September.
The CEMC continues to support computing teachers throughout the year with online resources and school visits.
Math teachers are the next to arrive on campus for the Math Teachers’ Conference, taking place August 20-22. Different programming streams are presented for teachers of grades 7-8 and 9-12. Students of the Waterloo online Master of Mathematics for Teachers program also take advantage of this opportunity to connect with each other, their peers and the university.
Real-world applications
Conference presentations by outstanding elementary and secondary school teachers, as well as University of Waterloo faculty members and invited speakers, cover a variety of topics including problem solving and “mathematics and computer science in the real world.”
The Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing aims to increase enjoyment, confidence and ability in mathematics and computer science among students and teachers in Canada and internationally. Through contests, face-to-face workshops, online resources, and publications, the CEMC provides curricular and enrichment support to elementary and secondary schools. The activities of the CEMC emphasize the relevance and importance of mathematics and computer science in the 21st century.