
Data Collection
The research design was once again modified in order to better address students' experiences with learning mathematics in different places.
Phase 1: Students’ experiences
The first phase of the study will invite students ages 7 and up who have experience learning mathematics in different places to write a hypothetical letter about their experiences in mathematics in a Canadian context. The letter could be addressed to a relative who will soon arrive to Canada, or to the teacher who will welcome the relative. The letters may consist of a written text, blog, or images. Participants will also be solicited to participate in a follow up interview if they are willing.
Anticipated data includes:
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Letters from students describing their experiences with mathematics.
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Videos/screen recordings of interviews with participants who expressed an interest in being interviewed.
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Researchers' notes and reflections about the letters and the interviews.
Phase 2: Teachers’ experiences
In the second phase of the study, student letters will be shared with Canadian mathematics teachers from grades 4 to 8. In a focus group setting, these teachers will be asked to reflect on and discuss the experiences shared by the students in Phase 1. Following the focus group, teachers will be asked to record notes about their reactions and implications for practice, particularly as they engage in teaching activities.
Anticipated data includes:
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Video recordings of the focus group interviews.
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Participants’ reflections
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Summaries of each group’s final take-aways
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Researchers’ notes and reflections after each session