This research focuses on the initial conceptions about mathematics that primary/junior and junior/intermediate teacher education candidates bring to an education program. When looking at the conceptions of the two years of cohorts collectively, these initial thoughts are overwhelmingly very negative about the subject. Through an analysis of the self-reported personal experience stories of two of the cohorts, themes show some patterns about what teacher education candidates have felt led to these initial perceptions. The discussion concludes with thoughts for teaching mathematics in general as well as teacher education programs in order to shift the negative perceptions of mathematics in future teachers.

Bio: Jennifer Holm is an Assistant Professor at Wilfrid Laurier University and works with primary/junior and junior/intermediate teacher education candidates, as well as in the field supporting current mathematics teachers. She is interested in developing mathematics knowledge for teaching and analyzing beliefs of teaching with both pre-service and in-service teachers. She uses this research to support future teachers in developing beliefs and knowledge that will encourage and support effective teaching practices in mathematics. Currently she is also working on exploring supporting secondary mathematics teachers in working with students who are in English Language Development programs.