"Mathworks at Texas State University is a center for innovation in mathematics education. Our mission is to reach and develop model programs and self-sustaining learning communities that engage students from all backgrounds in doing mathematics at a high level."
Texas State University (TXST) goals and initiatives for 2023 - 2029 promote effective outreach at the core, "Enriching Community, Collaboration, and Partnerships .... Build community relations, collaborations, and partnerships with external stakeholders ... increase engagement in activities and program that promote a welcoming community and a sense of belonging..."
Mission Alignment
Our mission aligns to the goal to create effective outreach since:
• Our programs provide opportunities for our undergraduate and graduate students to research and develop new math content and pedagogy.
• Math summer camps prepare all students to do higher-level math and science.
• We develop innovative and creative problem solvers who will be future leaders in STEM.
A Center For
- Mathematics learning
- Teacher Professional Development
- Research about math teaching and pedagogy
- Personal growth and development
- Community impact
Fostered by Relationships
- University
- Community
- Alumni
Reinforces Connections
- Relationships with diverse groups
- Benefits all participants
Three Pillars with a Research Point of Focus
Camps
Mathworks offers three core programs supported and informed by research. Beginning with summer math camps for elementary to high school students, we develop problem-solvers who are unafraid of new challenges. Students learn to think deeply and work collaboratively with others.
Curriculum
This concept extends into middle school curriculum that challenges students with fun, engaging problems, and professional development for in-service and pre-service teachers that prepares teachers to make these problems come alive in the classroom.
Research
The element that ties everything together is research about new and innovative ways of teaching, and research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students interested in mathematics education.