Productive Struggle and the Development of Relational Equity in a Mathematics Learning Community

• In Event: 16.056 - Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: 16.056-14 - Students' Mathematical Thinking: Grades 5-8

Abstract

Developing conceptual understanding takes productive struggle – students grappling with important mathematical ideas that are not yet apparent. Our analysis explored productive struggle in a novel way by examining struggle in relation to the achievement of relational equity: students communicating effectively, appreciating others’ perspectives and engaging respectfully. Drawing on video of small group collaborations in two 5th grade elementary classes, we present a two-part analysis: The first are prospective indicators that attune teachers and researchers to significant moments of struggle as they unfold. Second, we offer video analyses of select problem solving episodes. We argue that while struggle marks the intellectual work of learning communities, it also reveals important dynamics that serve to strengthen or threaten equity within the community.

Authors

• Tesha Sengupta Irving, Vanderbilt University - Peabody College

• Priyanka Agarwal, University of California - Irvine