Weaving Together: Exploring How Pluralistic Mathematical Practices Emerge Through Weaving

• In Event: Excellence in Education Research: Early Career Scholars and Their Work

Abstract

Weaving Together: Exploring How Pluralistic Mathematical Practices Emerge Through Weaving

There is unique promise in weaving for recognizing and highlighting multiple ways mathematical engagement can take place. Due to the pervasive exlusion and undervaluing in society of women and people of color/indigenous people, weaving itself has been undervalued and underexplored for its complexity and promise. I conducted semi-structured interviews with adult weavers and designed and conducted a weaving workshop with middle-school youth to explore how math occurs and is recognized by weavers through the process of weaving. This work demonstrates that mathematics can look different in different contexts, while still being complex and authentic. When we understand that math may look different and more playful for learners from different backgrounds, experiences, and epistemologies, we can begin to adjust our frameworks to better value youth’s intellectual work.

Author

• Naomi Thompson, Northwestern University