A Montessori-Inspired Career in Mathematics Curriculum Development: GeoGebra, Writing-to-Learn, Flipped Learning

Abstract

With an overview of Montessori education, I set the stage for curriculum materials aimed at improving undergraduate mathematics education. I describe four ways to enhance student learning with the dynamical mathematics software GeoGebra: classroom demonstrations, student activities with instructor-created applets, student activities with applets that students create by following podcast instructions, and student-created applets that more advanced students generate independently to solve problems. I discuss two types of writing-to-learn assignments: guided reflection and journaling. I also describe collaborative classroom activities, including associated video lessons that I constructed to implement a flipped or blended learning environment. Connections are made between current mathematics education research findings, Montessori principles and the curriculum materials that I designed. The chapter closes with a reflection on my career path. I discuss my passion for mathematics and social justice, how this led to professional opportunities in mathematics education including a project in the scholarship of teaching and learning, and how my work in mathematics education is useful as I assume leadership as chair of my department.