Mathematical practices in a technological workplace: the role of tools |
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| Authors: | Chrissavgi Triantafillou Despina Potari |
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| Institution: | (1) Department of Education, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece;(2) Department of Mathematics, University of Athens, 15701, Zographou, Athens, Greece |
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| Abstract: | This paper investigates the role of tools in the formation of mathematical practices and the construction of mathematical
meanings in the setting of a telecommunication organization through the actions undertaken by a group of technicians in their
working activity. The theoretical and analytical framework is guided by the first-generation activity theory model and Leont’ev’s
work on the three-tiered explanation of activity. Having conducted a 1-year ethnographic research study, we identified, classified,
and correlated the tools that mediated the technicians’ activity, and we studied the mathematical meanings that emerged. A
systemic network was generated, presenting the categories of tools such as mathematical (communicative, processes, and concepts)
and non-mathematical (physical and written texts). This classification was grounded on data from three central actions of
the technicians’ activity, while the constant interrelation and association of these tools during the working process addressed
the mathematical practices and supported the construction of mathematical meanings that this group developed from the researchers’
perspective. Technicians’ emerging mathematical meanings referred to place value, spatial, and algebraic relations and were
expressed through personal algorithms and metaphorical and metonymic reasoning. Finally, the educational implications of the
findings are discussed. |
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