Johana’s Three Minute Thesis
The Beauty of Mathematical Modeling
My dissertation research focuses on culturally responsive teaching and using rich cultural contexts in teaching and learning mathematics. With this focus, I will contribute new knowledge about effective pedagogies to enhance all students’ cultural competence by including culturally relevant contexts in mathematics.
Culturally responsive teaching (CRT) values individuals’ and groups’ identities, experiences, and previous knowledge as key tools for building meaningful learning environments. My dissertation focuses on teaching and learning mathematical modeling – a process connecting core mathematical concepts to real-world experiences emphasizing critical thinking, analysis, problem-solving, and generalization. Through my research, I aim to describe ways to incorporate CRT practices that support in-service teachers in planning and enacting lessons with mathematical modeling tasks that foster students’ cultural and math identities in K-8 classrooms.
[Slide will appear here after event.]
Johana is a Fulbright Scholar and mathematics educator from Honduras. She is a Graduate candidate in the Mathematics & Science Education Doctorate Program in Pullman. Prior to beginning her doctoral studies, Johana pursued a B.Ed. in Mathematics in Honduras and continued her graduate studies with a master’s in applied mathematics in Ireland. She has worked as a bilingual (English/Spanish) mathematics teacher at K-12 and college levels. Johana has decided to become a mathematics teacher educator to improve on current pedagogical approaches and create innovative ideas for teaching and learning mathematics. Her research interests focus on three areas (1) teacher education and professional development, (2) mathematical modeling, and (3) language and culture in mathematics.