Mathematical applications and modelling in the teaching and learning of mathematics

Applications and modelling have been an important theme in mathematics education during the last 40 years; in particular, through ICMEs regular working/topic groups and lectures on applications and modelling, and the series of International Community on the Teaching of Mathematical Modelling and Applications (ICTMA) conferences, held biennially since 1983. Relations between the real world and mathematics are particularly topical. One reason for learning mathematics is to understand and make sense of the world. The mathematics education community was invited to submit proposals addressing one of six themes and related issues. The focus could be at any level of education including teacher education and the work of mathematicians in the field. It is not surprising therefore that this TSG attracted much attention, with 44 papers submitted. Papers were reviewed by two reviewers. Thirty-six papers were accepted for presentation, from 17 countries (Australia, Austria, Brazil, China, Cyprus, Germany, Israel, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, USA) and included several teacher authors. Authors received feedback from the co-chairs, and were given time to revise papers in response to this. Also 24 posters related to this TSG (from 10 countries) were presented. Accepted papers were assembled into groups for summary, presentation, and discussion. Given the large number of papers, two concurrent sessions were held with participants together initially and for the final discussion. Given space constraints, only presenting authors are named.