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1 – 10 of over 37000In March 1978 the Labour Government announced that it was to establish an Inquiry to consider the teaching of Mathematics in primary and secondary schools in England and Wales…
Abstract
In March 1978 the Labour Government announced that it was to establish an Inquiry to consider the teaching of Mathematics in primary and secondary schools in England and Wales, with particular regard to its effectiveness and intelligibility, and to the match between the mathematical curriculum and the skills required in further education, employment and adult life generally. There was a new breeze blowing from the office of the Secretary of State for Education and Science. Schools Council, the customary mouthpiece of the Department of Education and Science, had produced numerous working papers containing many suggestions about what should be taught in schools and how it should be taught.
This paper seeks to record an interview about Abbe Herzig's journey in mathematics education, career, research and practice. Abbe Herzig's passion and love for mathematics began…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to record an interview about Abbe Herzig's journey in mathematics education, career, research and practice. Abbe Herzig's passion and love for mathematics began at her childhood. Although at some points in her life, due to personal and professional reasons explained below, she left mathematics education and teaching, she returned to the mathematics discipline, not as a mathematician but as an education scholar. As such, she was able to investigate those aspects of the disciplinary culture of mathematics that turns so many women away and to help formulate ways that the mathematics community can make the subject a more inclusive endeavor. She has developed courses and programmes to help diverse populations of young people discover the relevance of mathematics and science to their interests and realities. Herzig is in the midst of a major six‐year research programme, funded by the USA National Science Foundation, concerned with women and students of colour in the postgraduate mathematical sciences.
Design/methodology/approach
This article is based on citations, discussion and interview with Abbe Herzig conducted in October 2006.
Findings
In one of her research studies, Abbe found that among mathematics faculty in one doctoral program their belief in talent moved the structure of doctoral education away from one of mentoring students to become mathematicians to one in which the faculty emphasized filtering out students not possessing the prerequisite dedication or talent. Mathematics is generally regarded as an objective field of knowledge, in which mathematicians work to discover truths about the natural world. In a more recent publication, Herzig has criticized the mathematics “pipeline” metaphor, as she believes it implies that students are passive actors in their education, reacting to “encountering a crack in the pipe”.
Originality/value
This is a unique profile of an internationally recognised scholar in the field of the diversity in mathematics. Herzig is a remarkable role model for women who wish to embark not only on mathematics education and profession, but other women too.
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I Putu Ade Andre Payadnya, I Gusti Ayu Putu Arya Wulandari, Kadek Rahayu Puspadewi and Sompob Saelee
Ethnomathematics can help understand math concepts but is challenging in countries like Indonesia and Thailand due to its complexity. This study explores how math educators in…
Abstract
Purpose
Ethnomathematics can help understand math concepts but is challenging in countries like Indonesia and Thailand due to its complexity. This study explores how math educators in these countries view integrating ethnomathematics into teaching. The purpose of this study is to see its importance in helping students understand and apply math concepts in different cultural settings. By looking at educators’ opinions, the study seeks strategies to effectively use ethnomathematics in education.
Design/methodology/approach
The research used a mixed-methods approach with questionnaires and interviews to gather data from 138 Indonesian and 145 Thai educators, including lecturers, teachers and preservice teachers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to classify responses. Qualitative data analysis involves reducing, presenting, concluding and validating data to ensure accuracy. This approach aimed to provide a complete understanding of educators’ views on ethnomathematics.
Findings
The quantitative results showed strong support among Indonesian educators (average score 4.77) for integrating cultural elements in math education. Thai educators were slightly less enthusiastic (average score 4.57), but still positive. Interviews revealed unique cross-cultural perspectives and emphasized the need for theoretical and practical applications of ethnomathematics in the classroom. This perspective highlights the importance of social context and interaction in learning and calls for innovative teaching methods that use students’ cultural backgrounds.
Originality/value
This study offers new insights into how Indonesian and Thai educators view ethnomathematics, considering their cultural contexts. It underscores the importance of adapting teaching approaches to fit each country’s cultural characteristics, showing the close link between ethnomathematics and cultural development.
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Seda Türkmen Dural and Yüksel Dede
This study investigated the problem-solving strategies used in solving problems in the learning domain of numbers and operations in mathematics textbooks for Turkish middle…
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigated the problem-solving strategies used in solving problems in the learning domain of numbers and operations in mathematics textbooks for Turkish middle schools.
Design/methodology/approach
To this end, four middle school mathematics textbooks published by the Ministry of National Education of Turkey (MEB in Turkish), one from each grade level (Grades 5–8), were examined. The data in this document analysis study were analyzed using semantic content analysis.
Findings
The findings revealed that mathematics textbooks' most used problem-solving strategies for each level were drawing a figure (diagram), writing equality and inequality, making a table and making a systematic list. Drawing a diagram (figure) strategy was the most used strategy at each grade level, while working backwards was the least used one. Another finding was that finding a pattern and solving a simpler analogous problem strategies were rarely used at each grade level.
Research limitations/implications
This study points out how problem-solving strategies used Grades 5-8 mathematics textbooks in a different culture like Türkiye. So, it may also give some important clues for applying problem-solving strategies in mathematics classrooms in a different culture.
Practical implications
This study may draw the attention of educational stakeholders and textbook authors who want to understand and implement problem-solving strategies in mathematics classrooms by considering a different cultural perspective.
Social implications
This study may point to the importance of using problem-solving strategies in mathematics and daily and social learning environments due to the nature of mathematical problem-solving and problem-solving strategies.
Originality/value
This document review study examined the problem-solving strategies used in Turkish middle school mathematics textbooks, and the data were analyzed using semantic content analysis. The findings revealed that mathematics textbooks' most used problem solving strategies for each level were drawing a figure (diagram), writing equality and inequality, making a table and making a systematic list. Drawing a diagram (figure) strategy was the most used strategy at each grade level, while working backwards was the least used one. Another finding was that finding a pattern and solving a simpler analogous problem strategies were rarely used at each grade level.
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This research lies in the domain of Vedic mathematics, and it explores the application of the related Vedic sutras in different branches of mathematics, science, education, and…
Abstract
Purpose
This research lies in the domain of Vedic mathematics, and it explores the application of the related Vedic sutras in different branches of mathematics, science, education, and engineering across Asia and Europe.
Design/methodology/approach
The study embraced a qualitative research design followed by a systematic literature review (SLR) approach which describes the significance of Vedic mathematics. The study made use of purposive sampling through which the data were collected from 102 articles by using inclusion and exclusion criteria. It includes publication years, the types of research methods, and uses of Vedic mathematics sutras in different branches of knowledge stated by the researchers. Its goal is to offer a more thorough explanation and an evaluation of how the inquiry affected the conclusions. The articles examined in this review included all the journal articles and doctoral theses from the databases of Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, and Sodhganga which were published during the period 2010–2022.
Findings
The research found that the application of the sutras of Vedic mathematics has been increasing immensely in India. The researchers in this area are fond of qualitative research methods. This research has shown that sutras of Vedic mathematics especially “Urdhvatiryakbhyam” and “Nikhilam Navatascaramana Dasastah” have been frequently used in mathematics and engineering in technical higher education. The impact of other sutras has been quite useful, which augments that in many disciplines where the applications of Vedic mathematics are prevalent, it can be functional. The study concludes by reprising the result, its limitations, and the use of Vedic mathematics as a sustainable source of knowledge.
Research limitations/implications
Vedic mathematics is an area where a lot of potential applications are created in science, mathematics, engineering, and education. Even with the latest technological advancements like learning analytics, artificial intelligence has its connection with this branch of learning, which is the greatest treasure of the Indian knowledge system. The research in this area is not reported in any databases or any standard format so researchers find it difficult to locate and study this broad conceptual domain.
Practical implications
It will help the reader and other academic stakeholders to widen their view on the new and innovative techniques of Vedic mathematics. It is advised that additional studies would look at and evaluate papers published after this time so that readers may get a wider view of the concept of Vedic mathematics.
Social implications
It will help society to know the essence of Vedic mathematics that how useful it is. Vedic mathematics helps learners to learn in a very factual and accurate manner especially while dealing with mathematical calculations. It will enhance the problem-solving skills among learners. It will be beneficial for all types of learners which will help them to become better individuals for a nation.
Originality/value
The paper enriches understanding of the potential applications of different sutras from Vedic literature in different fields of knowledge. The outcome of the research encourages educationists and policymakers to include Vedic mathematics in the curriculum to foster quantitative reasoning and problem-solving at varied levels of learning.
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Jean A. Guillaume and Robin E. Hands
The purpose of this article is to debut a novel initiative that could potentially optimize resources that are currently constrained but, if unleashed, could help ameliorate the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this article is to debut a novel initiative that could potentially optimize resources that are currently constrained but, if unleashed, could help ameliorate the science, technology, engineering and mathematics teacher shortage. The initiative involves the reconceptualization of the National Network for Educational Renewal (NNER) tripartite model, which evolved from the work of Goodlad (1994a) and promotes cooperation and partnerships between the three important players responsible for preparing succeeding generations of competent teachers: PK-12 schools, university colleges of education and university colleges of arts and sciences (Roselle, Hands, Marino, Kilgallen, & Howard, 2021; Goodlad, 1994a).
Design/methodology/approach
The approach used in writing the article was narrative, offering a brief review of the various challenges that have had an impact on the national teacher shortage, particularly in the field of mathematics.
Findings
The study suggests that a reconceptualized NNER tripartite model can be implemented to assuage the devastating effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on learning, offer support to an overworked teacher workforce and provide a possible math teacher recruitment pipeline by forming a life-giving partnership between a college of education, a college of arts and sciences, a local elementary school and undergraduate math club members.
Originality/value
This is an original application of the NNER tripartite model, particularly with math teacher recruitment in mind, and it is hoped that the model will be considered transferable to a variety of school-university contexts. However, additional study is required to explore the validity and replicability of this model.
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Shannon Rose Panfilio-Padden, Jonathan Brendefur and Keith Krone
The purpose of the study was to gather data to determine whether instructional coaching partnerships can improve teachers’ implementation of learned mathematics instructional…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the study was to gather data to determine whether instructional coaching partnerships can improve teachers’ implementation of learned mathematics instructional strategies. Teachers are willing to learn and implement new mathematics strategies after professional development sessions to see better student learning results. However, the implementation process can become difficult. Our purpose was to determine whether implementing mathematics strategies improved if an instructional coaching partnership supported teachers.
Design/methodology/approach
“Do instructional coaching partnerships improve teachers’ implementation of mathematics instructional strategies?” We gathered data to determine whether instructional coaching partnerships support teachers’ capacity to implement new learning. Data were collected using video recording or classroom observation as a pre- and post-assessment. Teachers received 4 to 6 weeks of instructional coaching support during the intervention. Teachers completed a questionnaire about their intervention experiences. Student testing data were also analyzed to determine whether the intervention increased learning outcomes.
Findings
Our findings showed improved mathematics strategies, explicitly implementing the open-ended questioning strategy used during mathematics instruction. Open-ended questions to check students’ mathematics understanding increased by 42%. Teachers responded to a qualitative survey and stated overall satisfaction with the support provided by the instructional coach. Additionally, state testing scores in Grades 3 to 5 increased proficiency levels. Grade-level growth comparisons increased between 5 and 28%.
Originality/value
This study adds to current research stating that instructional coaching cycles and the implementation of partnership principles can positively support the execution of learned teaching practices. The study also indicates the effects of coaching support on students’ learning.
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Alexander W. Wiseman, David P. Baker, Catherine Riegle-Crumb and Francisco O. Ramirez
Prior research shows that stratification of future adult opportunities influences stratification in the academic performance of students. This perspective is used to generate…
Abstract
Prior research shows that stratification of future adult opportunities influences stratification in the academic performance of students. This perspective is used to generate hypotheses regarding the sources of cross-national gender differences in mathematics performance. These hypotheses are tested using multivariate and multilevel analyses of adult opportunities for women and cross-national differences in mathematics performance by gender. This future opportunity perspective is expanded to take into account the historical incorporation of women in modern nation-states through institutionalized mass schooling emphasizing egalitarian ideals. Results indicate a cross-national shift in the direction of less gender inequality in overall school mathematics performance. However, gender inequality is more evident in the advanced 12th grade mathematics. The results of a more specialized analysis of the advanced 12th grade mathematics are compared with the earlier findings regarding mathematics performance.
Munira Al Wahaibi and Asila Al-Ma’awali
This paper sheds light on one of the educational projects that was launched by Ministry of Education (MOE) in Oman in the academic year 2007–2008. The project, which is called the…
Abstract
This paper sheds light on one of the educational projects that was launched by Ministry of Education (MOE) in Oman in the academic year 2007–2008. The project, which is called the “Cognitive Development Program for Students in Science, Mathematics, and Concepts of Environmental Geography”, was introduced in 741 government schools in response to the low national score in Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2007. Hence, the main aim of the program is to develop the students’ science and mathematics capabilities in order to improve their levels in mathematics and science and to give further emphasis to these skills that form the basis of the rapidly changing world. This paper endeavors to acquaint the Gulf Cooperation Council countries with the nature of this program. It also focuses on the impact this program has on mathematics and science teachers’ and on students’ achievements in mathematics, science, and concepts of environmental geography. To achieve this goal, two questionnaires – one for teachers and the other for students – are conducted to measure the effectiveness of the Cognitive Development Program from teachers’ and students’ perspectives. The results of the questionnaires showed that the program has remarkably affected both teachers and students. One of the positive effects of this program was that it has encouraged the teachers to be always updated about what is new in these subject areas and the students are exposed to questions that test their synthesis. However, there are a number of drawbacks to this program from teachers’ and students’ perspectives. Constructive feedback for the program developers and supervisors in the MOE to base improvement is provided.
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Yujing Ni, Qiong Li, Xiaoqing Li and Jun Zou
This chapter provides a synthesis of the research project which investigated whether or not the most recent mathematics curriculum reform has reached the classroom and influenced…
Abstract
This chapter provides a synthesis of the research project which investigated whether or not the most recent mathematics curriculum reform has reached the classroom and influenced classroom practice and student learning in the mainland China. Three types of evidence for change as a result of the curriculum reform were examined. These included the beliefs and perceptions of teachers about learning and teaching mathematics, the cognitive features of learning tasks and of classroom interaction that were implemented in classroom, and student learning outcomes. Two groups of elementary math teachers and their students participated in the study. One group had participated in the reform implementation in classroom for several years, and the other group had used the conventional curriculum when the project was conducted in 2005. About 150 videotaped class sessions were analyzed from 58 classrooms of the two groups. Survey methods were used to probe the changes in the beliefs and perceptions of teachers about teaching and learning mathematics. The student learning outcomes were assessed for three times with multiple measures of mathematics achievement. Findings of the project provide the converging evidence that the curriculum reform has resulted in some of the expected changes. Reform teachers were more likely to hold a dynamic view of mathematics and to indicate the importance to provide students the learning opportunity to hypothesize, to proof, and to communicate in learning mathematics. The reform classrooms used more learning tasks with higher cognitive demands. The teachers in the reform classrooms asked more questions that required students to describe procedures leading to their answers and the students in the reform classrooms raised more questions in learning mathematics. Students of the reform classrooms showed to have achieved a relatively more balanced development in different cognitive areas of mathematics achievement.
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