The central activity of PMET was an extensive series of workshops over a period of four years (2003 through 2006) for college and university faculty. Each workshop focused on preparing teachers for elementary, middle or secondary school mathematics. Participants observed demonstration classes, providing an opportunity to learn about the mathematical thinking processes of students preparing for careers in teaching. Participants also had opportunities to share ideas, discuss and learn about appropriate content and ways of teaching prospective teachers more effectively.

During Summer 2006, the final summer for workshops, PMET offered four (4) new workshops and two (2) continuing workshops for college and university faculty who teach mathematics courses taken by prospective teachers. Each workshop focused on preparing teachers for elementary, middle and/or secondary school mathematics. Participants  examined how pre-service teachers learn mathematics, make sense of mathematical ideas and how they integrate their knowledge of mathematics into their thinking about teaching. Participants also had opportunities to share ideas, discuss and learn more about appropriate content and effective ways of helping pre-service teachers learn mathematics. They explored specific topics including the use of technology and statistics education in school mathematics. In addition, various workshops had a specific focus. 

Workshop activities included:

• Connecting college mathematics content to school mathematics
• Demonstration college classes by master teachers
• Discussions of school standards, both state and national
• Course development projects by participants
• Guest lectures by experts, including learning theory researchers
• Discussions of curricular materials and educational reports
• Use of technology