In this project, we initiate a collaboration between social sciences and mathematics secondary teachers in the field of Financial Literacy (FL). They work together to develop an integrative approach for students: Having a consistent view of FL; Creating a common voice for both disciplines in teaching FL; Supporting their teaching through collaboration and discussion. We have already negotiated with a school board about our project, and they have agreed to collaborate with us. In our project, we first have a workshop with teachers (informative and briefing about curriculum changes in Québec). Then, we have meeting with teachers from both disciplines where they will plan lessons on FL. After that, we video record their classes. Finally, we have an after class interview with them to reflect on this process.
This study aims to observe and document the collaboration between Financial Education (social sciences) and mathematics teachers when teaching financial concepts, in Québec. More specifically, our project intends:
1) to provide an understanding about curriculum changes;
2) to investigate how teachers from the two subject areas reach collaboration;
3) to observe the effects of collaboration and how this collaboration informs their teaching practices.
This is the first project in Quebec whose aim is to analyze the collaboration of teachers of mathematics and social sciences in the field of FL. This project opens a dialogue between educators from different disciplines in FL teaching. Furthermore, it is one of the first projects in the field of FL which looks at teaching practices in Financial Education, in Quebec. This study will contribute to more scholarly debates and research domains on the role of education in different subject areas in developing students’ financial literacy .This study also informs teacher educators, policy makers, and researchers about the influence of education on the development of financial literacy in students from different disciplines. It provides further understanding on the influence of the collaboration of different subject areas’ in teaching practices. More specifically, It provides a wider understanding on the importance of subject areas’ integration, and the collaboration between teachers from different disciplines. Thus, it will also influence in promoting financial capabilities and well-being of citizens.
Research Team: Annie Savard (McGill University), Jean-François Blanchet (Grandes-Seigneuries School Board)
Research Assistants: Alexandre Cavalcante (McGill University), Azadeh Javaherpour (McGill University), Louis-Philippe Turineck (McGill University)
Research Funded by: McGill University through its SSHRC Development Grants Program