As part of our research partnership, WestEd conducts a literature review for each NewSchools Ed Tech challenge. The literature review is meant to provide readers with an overview of the current ed tech research landscape, as it relates to the challenge’s focus area. This literature review provides an overview of best practices for developers to consider when creating edtech products intended to support the teaching and learning of mathematics. From the report:

From using representations, visualizations, and graphics to quizzing and supporting sense-making and discourse, research findings provide a roadmap for technology developers to follow in addressing the needs of mathematics students and teachers. Key features of effective mathematics edtech that support activities that research suggests are highly likely to promote student learning include: formative assessment, productive mathematical discourse, connecting abstract and concrete representations, active participation, integrating visual and verbal information, and improved pedagogical content knowledge.

The literature review includes sections on Best Practices in Mathematics Education, Applying Educational Technology to Mathematics, and Developing Educational Technology for Mathematics, as well as a list of more than 100 references to additional published research.