The Real World Is Interdisciplinary: Exploring Students' Perspectives and Experiences With Interdisciplinary Mathematics Education

• In Event: Affordances of Context-Rich Learning Environments

Abstract

Learning mathematics in a silo presents it as complex discipline that is detached from the real world. As such, there is a growing interest in interdisciplinary mathematics education (IdME). However, students’ perspectives about IdME are lacking. Thus, this study explored Grade 8 students’ perspectives on, and experiences with an IdME project in their mathematics course. Qualitative data were collected in the form of self-reflections and interviews. Findings suggest that the project allowed students to make connections between mathematics, everyday knowledge, and other disciplines. Students also had the opportunity to develop their 21st century skills. We encourage researchers and educators alike to further examine the ways that IdME can be used to transform mathematics instruction.

Authors

• Midhat Noor Kiyani, McGill University
  Presenting Author

• Limin Jao, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Cinzia Di Placido, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author