Our analysis of a longitudinal series of interviews with students highlighted how students’ mathematical aspirations are contingent, situated and subject to fluctuation. The exchange value of mathematics is important as students consider their progression more widely, often to university. For many students this overrides any appreciation of the use of mathematics either during their college or future studies. For some, however, mathematics plays an important role in students’ levels of personal satisfaction as they seek to enjoy it and develop some depth in their understanding. For those students involved in pre-vocational study the use value of their mathematics can be more immediate and can be an important factor in how they position themselves positively in relation to their mathematical studies.
The Transmaths website has been developed as part of the project:
Promoting participation and engagement in post-compulsory mathematics education for STEM
ESRC Award: RES-189-25-0235