(Re)Defining Developmental Mathematics: A Critical Examination of How It Is Defined in the Research Literature

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Thirteen
  In Roundtable Session: Back to the Basics: Advancing the Conversation in STEM (Table 2)

Abstract

In this literature review, we consider definitions/characterizations of the term “developmental mathematics” in the research literature, first by conducting qualitative analysis using the constant comparison method of 449 systemically-chosen records, and then using the resulting coding scheme to assign binary designations of different definition characteristics to a subset of highly-cited records. We then use these results to interrogate and problematize several common definitions/characterizations of developmental mathematics in the research literature, particularly in terms of whether they serve common equity goals, including equitable access to college credentials and mathematics learning, and we propose some possible alternative characterizations of developmental mathematics. We see this research as a first step towards ongoing conversations about how developmental mathematics could be conceptualized in postsecondary education.

Authors

• Claire Wladis, Borough of Manhattan Community College
  Presenting Author

• Martha Makowski, University of Alabama
  Presenting Author

• Derek Williams, Montana State University
  Presenting Author

• Katie McKeown, University of Alabama
  Presenting Author