International organizations in mathematics education

Abstract

Although the history of internationalization in mathematics education goes back more than a century, the last few decades have witnessed a notable acceleration in the establishment of bodies aiming at grouping together members of the community. The purpose of this chapter is to survey international or multinational organizations created to support and enhance reflection and action about the teaching and learning of mathematics at various levels of education systems, worldwide or in some specific regions of the world. The oldest and best-known international organization in mathematics education is the International Commission on Mathematical Instruction, but there are many others established over the years, serving different purposes and covering various aspects of the field. Focussing on those connected to research in mathematics education, this chapter highlights the diversity thus encountered in connection with the aims of these organizations, their functioning, or the specific niche they occupy in the mathematics education landscape.