A Journey in Mathematics Education Research

Abstract

The constructivist teaching experiment is used in formulating explanations of childrens mathematical behavior. Essentially, a teaching experiment consists of a series of teaching episodes and individual interviews that covers an extended period of timeanywhere from 6 weeks to 2 years. The explanations we formulate consist of modelsconstellations of theoretical constructsthat represent our understanding of childrens mathematical realities. However, the models must be distinguished from what might go on in childrens heads. They are formulated in the context of intensive interactions with children. Our emphasis on the researcher as teacher stems from our view that childrens construction of mathematical knowledge is greatly influenced by the experience they gain through interaction with their teacher. Although some of the researchers might not teach, all must act as model builders to ensure that the models reflect the teachers understanding of the children.