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Mathematical Challenge in a Heterogeneous Classroom

About the Program

The “Mathematical Challenge in a Heterogeneous Classroom” program was a large-scale research project that spanned four years, beginning in September 2018. The project was funded by the Israel Science Foundation (ISF) and operated within the framework of Range Center at the University of Haifa.

The research focused on examining teachers’ skills in grading the level of mathematical challenge in teaching high-level mathematics within a heterogeneous high school classroom.

Research Goals

The central goal of the research was to examine what types of teaching methods related to grading the level of mathematical challenge teachers used for teaching high-level mathematics in a heterogeneous classroom.

Development of Tools

Within the framework of the project, dedicated research tools were developed, such as individual and group interviews and a classroom observation sheet, which allowed for the investigation of these teaching methods.

Comparison and Analysis

Examining the differences in teaching methods among teachers of varying levels of expertise, as well as a comparison between lessons that differ in their level of ability and heterogeneity.

Research Aspects

  • Comparison of teachers: Examining the teaching methods among teachers who knew and implemented stepped tasks in their classroom versus teachers who did not.
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  • Levels of expertise: Analysis of the differences in the implementation of mathematical challenge between experienced teachers and novice teachers.
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  • Classroom dynamics: Examining the connection between the level of ability and heterogeneity in the lesson and the teaching methods chosen.
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Program Team

Prof. Roza Leikin

Program Head

Dr. Regina Ovodenko

Research Team Member

Ms. Aviva Sasson

Program Administrator