NCM
Overview
The National Council of Mathematics (NCM) is a professional organization in the United States that aims to improve the quality of mathematics education. Established in 1920, the NCM has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of mathematics education through its research, publications, and advocacy efforts. The organization's mission is to ensure that all students have access to high-quality mathematics education that prepares them for a diverse range of careers and life challenges.
History
The NCM was founded in 1920 by a group of educators who recognized the need for a national organization dedicated to improving mathematics education. The founders believed that the teaching of mathematics should be grounded in research and best practices, and that all students should have access to high-quality mathematics instruction. Over the years, the NCM has grown from a small group of dedicated educators to a national organization with thousands of members across the United States.
Mission and Goals
The mission of the NCM is to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality mathematics education. The organization believes that mathematics is a critical skill for all students, regardless of their career aspirations or life goals. To achieve this mission, the NCM has set several goals, including:
- Promoting the importance of mathematics education at all levels, from pre-kindergarten through college.
- Advocating for policies that support high-quality mathematics instruction.
- Providing resources and professional development opportunities for mathematics educators.
- Conducting research to inform best practices in mathematics education.
Membership
Membership in the NCM is open to anyone who is interested in improving mathematics education. This includes teachers, administrators, researchers, and parents. Members of the NCM receive access to a variety of resources, including publications, professional development opportunities, and networking events. The organization also offers several levels of membership, including student, regular, and lifetime memberships.
Publications
The NCM publishes several journals and books aimed at improving mathematics education. These publications provide a platform for researchers and educators to share their findings and best practices. Some of the organization's most notable publications include the "Journal of Mathematics Education" and the "NCM Bulletin". These publications cover a wide range of topics, from classroom strategies to policy issues, and are widely recognized as leading resources in the field of mathematics education.
Advocacy
One of the key roles of the NCM is to advocate for policies that support high-quality mathematics education. The organization works at both the state and federal level to influence policy decisions that impact mathematics instruction. This includes advocating for increased funding for mathematics education, supporting policies that promote equity in mathematics instruction, and opposing policies that undermine the quality of mathematics education.
Research
The NCM conducts and supports research in mathematics education. This research is used to inform the organization's advocacy efforts and to develop resources for educators. The NCM's research focuses on a variety of topics, including effective teaching strategies, student learning, and the impact of policy decisions on mathematics instruction.