While a general education math major focuses on the theoretical aspects of mathematics, a secondary education math major includes coursework specifically designed to prepare you for teaching high school students. This includes:
* Pedagogy courses: These courses teach you effective teaching methods, classroom management, lesson planning, and assessment strategies specifically tailored for secondary school students.
* Curriculum and instruction: You'll learn about the secondary mathematics curriculum, standards, and best practices for teaching specific math topics at different grade levels.
* Student teaching: A crucial component of secondary education programs is a supervised student teaching experience in a high school classroom, allowing you to gain practical experience before becoming a teacher.
A general education math major might provide a strong mathematical foundation, but it lacks the essential pedagogical training and practical experience necessary for a successful career as a high school math teacher. You'd need to supplement it with significant additional coursework and potentially a post-baccalaureate certificate in education. The secondary education program integrates all the necessary components into one degree, making it a much more efficient and effective pathway.