Content knowledge and attitudes towards stochastics and its teaching in pre-service chilean mathematics teachers

Abstract

Recognizing that mathematics teachers are facing increasing demands in the teaching of probability and statistics (stochastics) at school level, we are interested in analyzing current preservice teachers’ dispositions about content knowledge and attitudes towards the teaching and learning of stochastics. We implemented a quantitative study for a sample of 269 pre-service Chilean mathematics teachers to determine their understanding of stochastics content, their attitudes towards stochastics and its teaching, and whether these are related. We found weak associations overall, but stronger for some components. We conclude with recommendations based on these results to improve the Chilean teachers’ preparation process (pre-service) and advice that could guide the professional development of teachers (in-service).