Research Groups
MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE
led by Professor Tony Brown
This group conducts research into the teaching and learning of mathematics and science. Their work is making a significant contribution both to innovative practice and to theory.
The mathematics and science research group share a focus on innovative teaching and learning practices to enhance student learning and achievement. The group are also international leaders in the development of theory in maths education, and the acquisition of subject knowledge. Their research draws on and extends constructivist, poststructuralist and hermeneutic theory, to explore issues such as the language of maths and science, the forms of knowledge embedded in practice, and the acculturation of mathematics teachers.
The maths team are conducting a major study of an innovative curriculum, funded by the Gatsby foundation. Other projects include two ESRC studies, on effective teaching strategies at Key Stage 3 of the National Curriculum (Una Hanley & Harry Torrance), and the transition from student to primary maths teacher (Tony Brown).
Science projects include a study for the Nuffield Foundation of the use of puppets to promote engagement and talk in science (Brenda Keogh & Stuart Naylor), an evaluation of the Creative Science Initiative for the Wellcome Trust (Dave Heywood & Ian Stronach), and a study of a 'toys for education project' funded by Siemens/Lego. The Institute of Education at MMU hosts the Regional Science Centre, jointly funded by Wellcome and the DfES, and this provides further support for the development of science education research.
Significant recent publications from the group include Mathematics Education and Language: Interpreting Hermeneutics and Post Structuralism (Tony Brown, Kluwer) and New Teacher Identity and Regulative Government: the discursive formation of primary mathematics teacher education (Tony Brown & Olwyn Macnamara, Springer).