Mathematics for future engineers
Future engineers increasingly need to apply mathematical knowledge in teams and complex real-world situations. Yet traditional mathematics education in higher professional education often leads to inert knowledge that students cannot apply in practice. This project investigates the educational mechanism that explains why an innovative approach does work.
Goal
The project aims to gain insight into the working principle of a successful educational innovation focused on techno-mathematical literacies (TmLs). The innovation is implemented in three educational contexts – Electrical Engineering, Commercial Economics and Teacher Education – to understand how students make the transition from inert mathematical knowledge to practical application in their field.
Results
Insight into the working mechanism of the educational innovation; context-specific TmL assessments for three programmes; recommendations for implementation in other educational contexts; scientific publications and presentations at international conferences (ICME-16, CERME).
Duration
01 October 2025 - 01 October 2028
Approach
The educational innovation is implemented as a pilot study in three educational contexts. Qualitative methods – semi-structured interviews, classroom observations and analysis of submitted work – provide insight into how students acquire techno-mathematical literacies and which course elements contribute to this.
Impact on education or professional practice
Mathematics education that connects to professional practice can reduce student dropout and increase graduates’ labour market readiness. By understanding the working principle of this educational innovation, a foundation is created to implement the approach successfully across other higher professional education programmes. The outcomes – assessment tools, teaching materials and scientific insights – are directly applicable to educators and policymakers.
Contribution to the SDG's
SDG 4 – Quality Education; SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
Co-financing
NRO Insight into Educational Innovation 2024 (Netherlands Initiative for Education Research)
HU researchers involved in the research
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