Sheffield Hallam University

MiMa is an innovative European curriculum development project designed to promote engagement with, and enjoyment of, mathematics through practical, hands-on work by children. Spanning five European countries, it was born out of the practical experience of common problems related to mathematics learning and teaching in schools.

The Sheffield Institute of Education worked with leading universities in Italy, Germany, Portugal and Hungary on children's mathematical development in the later primary years. Ten activities were developed and trialled by schools across Europe, amongst them five schools in the Sheffield area.

The project was based on the principles of attainment for all and democratic learning, with an emphasis on children learning together.

A fundamental part of the MiMa methodology is that children will make, present and explain their work to others, thus opening up the spaces for dialogue and dialogic teacher (Alexander, 2008).

The project culminated with children exhibiting their work; after sharing their work in their own schools in Sheffield and Doncaster the children from the project schools presented their work to the public in Sheffield's Winter Gardens.

Interviews with participating teachers indicate that the experience gave the children an opportunity to exercise responsibility and autonomy with respect to their own mathematics and that this in turn led to many, particularly those previously low attaining, to become successful and more confident learners. The materials are suitable for Key Stage 2.

Further information and supporting materials are available on the website and from Gill Adams.