The University of Nottingham's Observatory for Mathematical Education has published its Introductory Report which sets out its design concepts, together with preliminary plans for the coming years.
Including details of progress on setting up the largest ever cohort studies of mathematical education in England, the report makes the case for the importance of the mathematical sciences and their applications – and for a mathematical education fit for the mid-21st century.
The Observatory – which was established in November 2023 with the support of a founding grant from XTX Markets – houses the first dedicated, ONS secure data lab for mathematics education research in the country. It continues to bring together a growing team of mathematicians and mathematics education researchers within the university and builds on an internationally respected history of research and development at the University of Nottingham.
We've had a tremendous first year, building a great team and quickly establishing the Observatory's brand and reputation. And together we've designed and started an exciting programme of groundbreaking research that we are confident will build to make great impact for learners of mathematics in schools, colleges and universities."
The report explains some of the underpinning principles of the Observatory, including the simple yet ambitious goal to undertake and disseminate an outstanding programme of large-scale longitudinal research supporting the improvement of mathematical education and the long-term benefits for individuals and society; and concludes by detailing the high-level research design, concepts and plans, focusing on the core programme of work.
In future, the Observatory for Mathematical Education will publish an annual research synthesis based on trend analyses, cohort studies and other research and development activities. It aims to report on historical and emerging successes and disseminate evidence on longstanding systemic problems and the extent to which policies, interventions and practices have addressed, or are addressing, these issues, along with producing focused reports on some of the key aspects of the mathematics education system in England. The Observatory intends to use its research findings to inform policymakers, including the Department for Education, to shape the future of the system.
The full report can be found here.
