Differentiation in Mathematics in Steiner Primary Schools in Australia
Principal Supervisor: Associate Professor Lena Danaia
Co-Supervisor: Dr James Deehan
Co-Supervisor: Associate Professor David McKinnon
My research project looks at differentiation in mathematics in Australian Steiner primary schools through the perspective of teachers. The aim is to develop an in-depth picture of the perspectives that Steiner teachers have with regards to mathematics differentiation and to provide insights to the approaches that Steiner teachers use to differentiate with regards to mathematics education. This will inform ways to help develop and conceptualise a range of effective pedagogies that enable teachers to better support a diverse range of students to develop a deeper conceptual understanding of mathematics concepts.
Part 1 of the research is a survey, which seeks to gain insights from a large number of Steiner teachers from around Australia on their experience of using differentiation in their mathematics classrooms. Part 2 of the research involves interviewing a smaller number of teachers who took part in the survey. The selected teachers represent a range of experiences and perspectives to gain a deeper understanding into the area of research.
Since beginning my teaching career nearly two decades ago, I have always been motivated to continue to deepen my understanding of education and how I can better support the students in my classroom. I see teaching as both a great opportunity and also a big responsibility. After completing my master’s by research at Federation University, I was keen to continue research in education and mathematics, Steiner education, and meeting the diverse needs of students are all keen areas of interest for me. My aim has always been to create a synergy between education research and the underlying educational philosophies of Steiner education.
MERGA, Steiner Education Australia