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Frequently asked questions
The questions and answers are drawn from Forum discussion or responses to member queries. Please send any queries to connectwithmaths@aamt.edu.au if you need assistance in participating in this community.
Click here if you wish further help with general Connect with Maths community questions.
- What is an online community?
- What are the benefits of online education communities?
- Why do I need to provide profile information?
- What is the definition of 'early years'?
- What is the Early Learning Years Framework?
- Is there a separate prior-to-school community?
- Are educators of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children included?
- Are parents a key member group?
1. What is an online community?
An online community is a group of people who exchange ideas and expertise in a virtual environment. Community members have shared purpose and interests. The characteristics of an online community can change depending on the technology used and opportunities for members to interact. Social media tools such as discussion boards, blogs, wikis provide the channels to share the stories and experiences of members resulting in knowledge sharing and collaboration. They become repositories of knowledge for future use, reducing duplication of research and filtering targeted information.
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2. What are the benefits of online education communities?
Effective online education communities harness the collective intelligence to provide information and expertise to be enjoyed by all members of the community. They improve the way we work, learn and innovate. Online education communities create the bonds which are important in forming social networks, mentorship, and the spirit of the community.
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3. Why do I need to provide profile information?
Profile information is used to check for spam, so please fill in all required fields. Profile information also helps the Connect with Maths team develop suitable programs and resources for the community, and assists in strategies needed for a sustainable community.
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4. What is the definition of 'early years'?
AAMT defines 'early years' as Birth to eight years which aligns with a national approach. Within the early years there are two main groups: the first is prior-to-school, which covers Birth to four years of age, and the second includes children five to eight years of age.
5. What is the Early Learning Framework?
This framework describes the principles, practices and outcomes that support and enhance young children’s learning from birth to five years of age, as well as their transition to school. An Educator's Guide to the Early Learning Years Framework and REFLECT, RESPECT, RELATE are helpful resources on this topic.
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6. Is there a separate prior-to-school community?
No, the Early Years Learning in Mathematics community includes both prior-to-school and primary years. Members could be educators in childcare centres, schools (Kindergarten, Reception, Prep and Primary years 1 to 2), pre- and post-school care centres, or parents including those who are home schooling.
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7. Are educators of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children included?
Yes, all educators are welcome. As the community is forum-based, there can be a group which focuses on Indigenous learners. You can also subscribe to the Make it Count with Indigenous Learners community.
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8. Are parents a key member group?
Yes, the community encourages participation by educators across all sectors; it welcomes those in the wider learning community, including parents.
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Go to the Forum to raise any topics about the teaching of Mathematics for young children. |
