Approaches to Fostering Young People’s Mathematical Identities: Theory, Design, and Student Uptake

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Developing strong mathematical identities isas a central goal of mathematics instruction (Aguirre, et. al, 2013). This goal challenges persistent patterns of exclusion and de-identification with mathematics, particularly for Black and Brown learners Cobb & Hodge, 2007; Gutiérrez, R., 2011). Rooted in situative perspectives (Greeno & MMAP, 1998; Lave & Wenger, 1991), which theorize learning as a process of becoming through participation and critical perspectives on the normative culture and practices of mathematics classrooms (Louie, 2017; Martin, 2012, 2019), the research programs in this session design ways to engage learners in mathematical experiences aimed at fostering positive and agentic mathematical identities. The session focuses on how they conceptualize identity, support its development, and study learners’ perspectives, engagement, and evolving identities.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Research in Mathematics Education

Chair

• Victoria Pérez Nifoussi, University of Michigan

Papers

• The Potential of Hybridity to Support Epistemic Diversity In Mathematics - Melissa Sommerfeld Gresalfi, Vanderbilt University; Panchompoo Wisittanawat, Vanderbilt University; Madison Knowe, Vanderbilt University

• Advancing Equity and Strengthening Teaching Though Elementary Mathematical Modeling - Erin Turner, University of Arizona; Mary A. Carlson, Montana State University; Julia M. Aguirre, University of Washington - Tacoma; Jennifer M. Suh, George Mason University

• Studies of Identity - Jo Boaler, Stanford University; Kyalamboka Brown, Stanford University

• Designing and Studying Teaching to Advance Equity and Foster Students’ Mathematical Identity - Darrius D. Robinson, University of Michigan; Deborah Loewenberg Ball, University of Michigan; Victoria Pérez Nifoussi, University of Michigan

Discussants

• Robert Q. Berry, Indiana University

• Julia M. Aguirre, University of Washington - Tacoma