Education Faculty Member Co-Authors Research

Dr. Rabiha Elyan, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Education, co-authored a significant research study alongside Mrs. Najah Harb titled, “Strengthening the Kindergarten Teacher’s Manual Based on the NCTM Standards: Proposed Amendments.” The article was recently published in the Canadian Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, a peer-reviewed journal by Springer Nature.

Amid growing international interest in early childhood mathematics education, this research examines the only official curriculum resource used in Palestinian kindergartens—the Kindergarten Teacher’s Manual. The study aims to analyze and strengthen the manual in light of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards, which serve as a global benchmark for quality math education.

The results indicate that while the manual offers a strong initial framework, it lacks comprehensive mathematical content and logical sequencing aligned with children’s developmental stages. Key shortcomings include incomplete coverage of NCTM expectations and instructional sequences that do not adequately support progressive learning.

In response, the study proposes several amendments including emphasizing early childhood development; re-arranging the Manual to reflect a logical sequence of mathematical skills; adding the complete mathematics content; and a restructuring of the activities themselves.

These recommendations are designed to empower Palestinian kindergarten teachers with improved tools for delivering high-quality math education and to promote a more developmentally sound approach to early childhood instruction.

Bethlehem University Foundation proudly recognizes Dr. Rabiha Elyan for this impactful scholarly contribution, which reflects the university’s mission to support educational innovation, national development, and the advancement of evidence-based teaching practices.