Research in mathematics education constantly oscillates between theoretical or 'Is' questions and practical or 'Ought' questions: Researchers are not only pursuing theoretical questions by investigating what those involved in the teaching and learning of mathematics do, but they are also working on practical recommendations for what they ought to…

Building on Umberto Eco's concept of Ur-Fascism, this essay examines how authoritarian traits permeate mathematics education. Through a reflective analysis of my prior research within the context of Cyprus, I discuss troubling patterns of centralised control, rigid traditions, and hierarchical structures shaping the educational landscape. These…

Shulman (1986) conceptualized pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) at the intersection of content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge. In this paper, I re-explore the intersection of content--in our case, mathematics--and pedagogy, not in terms of domains of knowledge, but in terms of domains of practice. I conceptualize, describe, and exemplify…

Indulging in recounting a few salient memories of what seems now like a dim and distant past, I raise questions about the ebb and flow, the waxing and waning of salient themes in mathematics education. I mention some of the most inspirational influences on my thinking and on my behaviour with learners of all ages. I take the opportunity to ask…

What is the relationship between research mathematics and the mathematics that arises in non-academic mathematical practices? I answer this question in terms of situated mathematical research, which comprises situated mathematical interpretations and situated mathematical applications. A situated mathematical interpretation of a practice takes…

Discusses the gap between educational theories and practice and focuses on constructivism in mathematics classrooms. Contains 12 references. (ASK)

Discusses the meaning of mathematics by looking at its uses in the real world. Offers mathematical modeling as a way to represent mathematical applications in real or potential situations. Presents levels of applicability, modus operandi, relationship to "pure mathematics," and consequences for education for mathematical modeling. (MDH)

Builds a case for possible connections between the discipline of mathematics education and the practice of mathematics education in the classroom. Focuses on constructivist, interactionist, and enactivist theorizing and research. Argues that this approach offers opportunities for divergent thinking. (DDR)

Provides a variety of descriptions and perspectives about a mathematics education conference. Six authors from different countries and with a variety of philosophical views provide insights and interpretations of the conference proceedings. (DDR)

When asked to give a talk at a mathematics teacher conference that focused on research in mathematics education, Ruhama Even viewed the invitation as an opportunity to address the meta-question: what can teachers learn from research in mathematics education? The reason for her view was her way of feeling, as a researcher and teacher educator, that…

Examined the effects of disruptive behavior in mathematics classes. Reported a case study of 31 Greek students considered to be very difficult. Concluded that an alternative approach toward students' concerns--based on human communication, discussion, and negotiation--improved classroom behavior in general. (MDH)