Mathematical Challenges For All

This book argues that mathematical challenge can be found at any level and at every age and constitutes an essential characteristic of any mathematics classroom aimed at developing the students’ mathematical knowledge and skills. Since each mathematics classroom is heterogeneous with respect to students’ mathematical potential, quality mathematical instruction results from matching the level of mathematical challenge to different students’ potential. Thus, effective integration of mathematical challenge in the instructional process is strongly connected to the equity principle of mathematics education. In the three sections in this volume readers can find diverse views on mathematical challenges in curriculum and instructional design, kinds and variation of mathematically challenging tasks and collections of mathematical problems. Evidence-based analysis is interwoven with theoretical positions expressed by the authors of the chapters. Cognitive, social and affective characteristicsof challenging mathematical activities are observed and analyzed. The volume opens new avenues of research in mathematics education, and pose multiple questions about mathematical instruction rich in mathematical challenge for all. The authors invite readers to explore and enjoy mathematical challenges at different levels.

Roza Leikin is a Professor of Mathematics Education and Education of Gifted at the Faculty of Education, University of Haifa. Her research and practice is focuses on mathematically challenging instructional design, associated mathematical tasks and teachers’ professional potential. She is interested in integration of neuro-cognitive research to the field of mathematics education. Dr. Leikin is the Dean of faculty of Education, a member of the Department of Mathematics Education and the Establishing Director of the RANGE Center - the Interdisciplinary Center for the Research and Advancement of Giftedness and Excellence in the University of Haifa. During 2012-2017 she served as the President of MCG – the International Group for Mathematical Creativity and Giftedness (affiliated with ICMI). Dr. Leikin is a Senior Mathematical Editor of the International Journal for Science and Mathematics Education. She has edited 12 volumes related to research in mathematics education and the education of gifted, published more than 150 papers in peer reviewed research journals, books, and refereed conference proceedings.