Too many teachers can't do math, let alone teach it?

 http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/opinion/too-many-teachers-cant-do-math-let-alone-teach-it/article2183700/

A co-worker of mine came across this article in the globe and mail (link posted above). I thought it was interesting the perspective it takes.  In summary it is talking about how alot of elementary school teachers avoid teaching certain math topics to their students because they themselves do not understand it. The reporter Margaret Wente goes on to comment on how many universities in Canada do not require more than a basic level math course to become an elementary school teacher. She continues to state how math seems to no longer be a focus of importance for the school system, and that it has turned to social justice and inequality issues. She even quotes the dean of education at the University of Saskatchewan as they are considering making the math course an elective for those wanting to Primary/Elementary teaching.

In the last paragraph Wente states "...the current math curriculum is no help, either. It's long on "discovery" and short on practice and problem-solving. 'They don't seem to want the kids to practice anymore,' says prof. Stokke" (globe & Mail, 2011)


This got me thinking about what we are reading in our text and wondering how connected this could be to the methods of the teachers at Phoenix park, with the "discovery" of open-ended questions.

The final thing that I would like to mention about this article was the very last statement Wente writes in her article, she quotes Prof. Stokke stating " You wouldn't send your child for piano lessons to somebody who can't play the piano. It's so obvious to everyone but the people who educate the educators."
This is definately a strong and to the point statement. It really got me thinking, how true is that though? Wouldn't you want your child to be taught by someone who knew the subject area? Elementary and primary school teachers definately have a task on their hands because they dont have a specific subject area, they need to know all subject areas, since it is my understanding that especially in primary they teach all subjects.  So I have to say Hats off to all those primary-elementary school teachers out there. However, with that being said, I also strongly believe in the final statement maid in the article. How can you teach someone something you do not know yourself. What happens then? the students gets pushed through the system and is no better off cause they then do not know the basics they need to know to get through.

What would happen to the process of mathematics if it is kept being pushed to the wayside as it is being done in this article?

 Anyone else have any thoughts on this?