4 Takeaways from ICME in Sydney

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Laura Wagenman, President Elect

I received a National Science Foundation Grant to attend the International Congress on Math Education (ICME 15) this July in Sydney Australia. Along with 21 other people from the United States, we spent a week learning about research that impacts our work in the classroom. 

The most important part of the Congress to me was the connections. I connected with those in our group from the US as well as people from all over the world. It was fun to be around people who love children, teaching math, and have a passion to learn and grow. While I learned a lot through five days of learning, I have four general takeaways. More information can be found below, along with links to more information. 

    1. Research and classroom instructional practices
    2. Using students’ culture and language in mathematics
    3. First Nations Knowledges and STEM
    4. Assessment through teacher noticing

1. Research and classroom instructional practices

    • What counts as evidence? In what setting? For who? 
    • Dig deep into research and ask questions. 
    • I was reminded of Dr. Rachel Lambert’s webinar for NCTM which has been a wonderful resource for me to help our new and veteran teachers with planning and engaging students in thinking and learning. 

Resource: Unpacking Research Claims About the Teaching and Learning of Mathematics (Open to All)

2. Using students’ culture and language in mathematics

  • Mathematical modeling using real-world contexts, connecting students lived experiences 
  • Leveraging student strengths in mathematics
  • Relational learning and connection between each other, the content and other areas 
  • A great session discussed mathematical modeling which can be found in our 2022 MN Math Standards.

Resource: Advancing Equity and Strengthening Teaching through Elementary Mathematical Modeling

3. First Nations Knowledges and STEM

Along with the culture and language of mathematics, this was one of my Topic Study Group which meant I attended many sessions related to First Nations Knowledges. 

  • First Nations and Indigenous people have many ways of knowing, doing, and problem solving
  • Culture and language are connected through their daily lives, rich in math and science, and convey important values
  • Story and direct experiences are important and show our interconnectedness
  • These experiences are learner centered and inquiry based
  • Goals are for the group over the individual

Resource: I was reminded of the incredible work happening here in MN with Understand Native Minnesota Research through the Minnesota Native American Essential Understandings for Educators 

4. Teacher Noticing

I did not attend the session by Ban Heng Choy but saw posts on Twitter so I started learning. 

  • Noticing is complex & challenging
  • Interpreting beliefs, content knowledge and knowledge of students
  • Responding connect student strengths to math progressions, ask clarifying questions, introduce a tool, complex work
  • Reflective practice that influences teacher decision making
  • Listening fosters belonging and tells us how to act pedagogically

Resources: