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Upcoming Colloquium

No, math is not a competition: Ways to disrupt traditional math logics in K-12 classrooms
Dr. Brittany L. Marshall, San Diego State University

September 12, 2025
5:30pm-6:30pm via Zoom

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Abstract

Societally, we are taught the myths that math is individualized and competitive. These myths are sometimes supported by teacher practices, which often perpetuate stereotypes impeding marginalized students' chances at success. When teachers work against these myths, they are creating a classroom environment that is safe for all students to make mistakes and engage in more collaborative work. In this session, we will discuss examples from teachers that build a collective sense of responsibility in predominantly Black classrooms and show various ways in which students normalize difficulty in mathematics as a way to challenge norms of competition between students.

Biosketch

Brittany L. Marshall's research focuses on disrupting the assumptions about who and what belongs in mathematics spaces (traditional logics) that exclude students from minoritized communities. She received her Ph.D. in education from Rutgers University with graduate certificates in Africana Studies and Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies. Before Rutgers, Brittany taught elementary, middle and high school mathematics in Chicago. When not teaching or learning, you can find Brittany exploring the architecture of different cities and trying new cuisines with her family and friends or relaxing at home watching Chopped and Love and Hip Hop with her pets, Cori and Brennan.