Making maths visible: Using vertical whiteboards to engage and encourage girls to take risks when solving problems in mathematics

KATHERINE JACKSON, PYMBLE LADIES’ COLLEGE, AUSTRALIA Introduction Skills in mathematics are highly desirable for the 21st-century workplace. Yet many girls still see mathematics as challenging and appear reluctant to take the calculus-based courses needed for the future work environment. Despite having a growing school culture of looking at mistakes as desirable for learning, the girls are often perfectionists and see mistakes as failures rather than learning opportunities. This project sought to challenge this attitude and instil in the girls the courage to take risks, sit with uncertainty and work collaboratively to solve a problem. Research question How does using vertical whiteboards engage and encourage Year 10 girls to take risks when solving problems in mathematics? Action-research methodology This project followed Mertler’s (2020) approach to action research. A literature review was undertaken during the planning stage, and a research topic was finalised. A research p