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The aim of the study is to investigate and compare approaches to algebra in the Estonian, Finnish, and Swedish national core curricula (Grades 1-9). Despite the similarities in the school systems of these neighboring countries, the analysis reveals three quite different curricular approaches. The Estonian approach shows influences of the Russian Davydov School. The Finnish approach to some extent resembles the traditional one whereby algebra is addressed first at the lower secondary level and then in a formal manner. However, there are also characteristics typical of the functional view, which dominates the Swedish curriculum. Here, as opposed to the documents from the other two countries, a transition to more formal sophisticated methods at the secondary level is not visible at all. We discuss the results in relation to earlier research and students' different learning outcomes in light of international evaluations.

Introduction: An effective teaching and learning environment has been identified as a factor having an impact on the functionality of school. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the satisfaction level of mathematics teachers with their collaboration and recognition at school as a significant component of general job satisfaction, and their general and subject-specific beliefs about teaching and learning as well as their self-reported instructional practice. Method: The data was collected from 9th grade mathematics teachers in Latvia (N = 390) and Estonia (N = 327) using scales measuring teacher job satisfaction, general beliefs on teaching/learning, beliefs about mathematics teaching/learning and regular practice in class from the questionnaire created for a larger study on mathematics teachers within the international NorBa Project. Results: The results show significant positive inter-relationships between collaboration and recognition on the one hand and constructivist beliefs, beliefs in the constructivist-oriented process aspect of mathematics teaching and constructivist practice on the other hand. Although the influence of teachers' age and work experience was also examined, it did not appear to be significant in the context of the research. Some cultural differences between Latvian and Estonian teachers were discovered in relation to the main variables and their relationships. Discussion: The findings of this study indicate the importance of teachers' satisfaction with the collaborative culture of schools in developing teachers' beliefs and instructional practice in line with school reforms oriented toward the ideology of constructivism. Implications for practice and directions for future research are discussed. (Contains 3 tables.)

Many countries are revising their mathematics curriculum in order to elevate the role of proof and argumentation at all school levels and for all student groups. Yet, we have very little research on how proof-related competences are aimed to be developed in the mathematics curricula of different countries in Grades 1 to 12. This article contributes to filling this gap by analysing and comparing three countries' curricula from the perspective of developmental proof. For this purpose, we created an analytical frame of proof-related competences that could be connected to the development of students' understanding and skills concerning argumentation and mathematical proof. The analysis reveals three quite different trajectories with specific characteristics, shortcomings and strengths. (Contains 3 notes and 12 tables.)

Identified are variables affecting performance of algebraic word problems for eighth graders. An appropriate readability level would seem necessary but not sufficient for student success. The structural variables used appeared to be good predictors of both the correct strategies and solving time. (Author/YP)

Copyright of Acta Paedagogica Vilnensia is the property of Vilnius University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Paedagogica Vilnensia is the property of Vilnius University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Pedagogy Studies / Pedagogika is the property of Vytautas Magnus University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)