Nicole L. Fonger, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Mathematics and Mathematics Education at Syracuse University. Dr. Fonger is a community-engaged scholar, mathematics education researcher, visual artist, mathematics teacher educator, mathematics professor, and mother. Her research agenda is driven by a quest to address an enduring issue in mathematics education: how to support students’ meaningful learning of algebra in K-12 school settings. Dr. Fonger contributes to better understanding and addressing this issue through empirical and theoretical research, design studies, and community-engaged scholarship focused on advancing knowledge in the field of mathematics education. Dr. Fonger is the founder of the Antiracist Algebra Coalition, and the Co-Founder of the Data Warriors, an after-school club focused on math, mapping, and social justice.
Understanding and supporting students' meaningful learning of mathematics.
My research and practice are deeply intertwined with a focus on supporting students’ meaningful learning of algebra through collaborative partnerships with classroom teachers, and culturally responsive designs including social justice mathematics tasks.
As a community-engaged researcher, I seek to build meaningful partnerships with school and community stakeholders with a focus on supporting students’ learning of algebra in urban public schools, classrooms, and informal learning spaces. I am a co-founder and organizer of the Data Warriors program, where we work with youth to understand and address injustices in our communities through math and mapping. Please reach out if you’re interested in collaborating.
The three main strands and related guiding questions of my scholarship are:
Meaningful Learning Strand: I study how students learn algebra and algebraic thinking in meaningful ways.
Teaching and Learning Trajectories Strand: I study how teachers support secondary students’ learning of algebra in school settings over time.
Linking Research, Practice, and Place Strand: I study how to link research and practice in urban public schools with a focus on anti-oppressive practices and policies for marginalized students.
Grad Student Mentorship Opportunities:
Lead Management of Reality Math Circle Project.
Co-author papers for conferences and journals.
Lead of co-create expereinces and artifacts to strengthen research-practice links (e.g. video, sketch, write, teacher PD).