This course invites educators to explore innovative, research-based approaches to mathematics instruction through a study of Math-ish by Jo Boaler. Participants will examine how traditional views of math—focused on speed, right answers, and rigid procedures—can limit student understanding and will instead learn how to foster flexible thinking, creativity, and deep conceptual understanding in their classrooms.

Throughout the course, teachers will engage in discussions, classroom-based applications, and strategy sharing. Emphasis will be placed on building positive math mindsets, encouraging student discourse, and designing rich mathematical experiences that support all learners. Educators will leave with actionable tools to shift their instruction toward more inclusive, engaging, and meaningful mathematics learning.

This course is ideal for elementary and middle school educators seeking to strengthen number sense instruction, increase student engagement, and create a classroom culture where all students see themselves as capable mathematicians.

Required Text:

• Math-ish: Finding Creativity, Diversity, and Meaning in Mathematics by Jo Boaler

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Analyze current math instructional practices to identify opportunities for increasing student thinking and engagement.
• Implement instructional strategies that promote flexible thinking and multiple problem-solving approaches.
• Facilitate meaningful math discussions that encourage students to explain and justify their reasoning.
• Design math tasks that build conceptual understanding and strengthen number sense.
• Create a classroom environment that values mistakes as part of the learning process.