Maths for Einstein’s Universe. Part 2: Development using the Model of Educational Reconstruction

Anastasia Lonshakova; David  Blair; David Treagust

doi:10.30722/32.06.004

Authors

Anastasia Lonshakova
Professor David Blair The University of Western Australia
Professor David Treagust Curtin University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30722/32.06.004

Abstract

This paper examines how the Model of Educational Reconstruction (MER) served as a guiding framework for developing and refining Maths for Einstein’s Universe — a program integrating modern scientific concepts into primary and middle school mathematics. The structure and rationale are detailed in the accompanying paper, Maths for Einstein’s Universe – Tools for Understanding Modern Reality. Part 1: Rationale. The central research question is whether the MER can effectively support the design of a program that fosters both conceptual understanding and positive attitudes toward mathematics. To explore this, the program was developed through iterative cycles: creating learning sequences, testing them in workshops and classrooms, collecting feedback, and revising accordingly. The MER structured both content development and evaluation. Evaluation tools included knowledge tests, attitude questionnaires, and feedback from students, teachers, and other stakeholders. The focus of this paper is on how the MER enabled continuous improvements across more than 300 hours of teaching. The findings demonstrate that the MER can support the integration of innovative, conceptually challenging content into school mathematics. Students showed measurable gains in understanding and engagement, and teachers reported increased enthusiasm and confidence. This work presents an application of the MER in mathematics education and highlights its potential for curriculum innovation grounded in modern physics.

Author Biographies

Professor David Blair, The University of Western Australia

David G. Blair is an Australian physicist and professor at the University of Western Australia and Director of the Australian International Gravitational Research Centre. Blair works on methods for the detection of gravitational waves. He developed the Einstein-First program in 2013.
Professor David Treagust, Curtin University

David Treagust is John Curtin Distinguished Professor of Science Education in the School of Education at Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia. Formerly a secondary science teacher, his research interests are related to understanding students’ ideas about science concepts, how they contribute to conceptual change and can be used to enhance the design of curricula and teachers’ classroom practice.