Intentionality in task design research: examining the design process of an online learning tool about mathematics in society

Abstract

This thesis explores the design intentions and considerations made in the creation of an online learning tool for adults. Research in task design includes two components: design as intention and design as implementation. My research contributes to conversations about design as intention by analyzing my mathematical intentions and how they were, or were not, realized in the development of an online task about genetically modified organisms (GMOs). I draw on three theoretical frames to inform my analyses. Frame 1 – Mathematics in societal issues, situated in research highlighting the impact of innumeracy and how numbers may misinform society. Frame 2 – Mathematical representations, situated in research that highlights the importance of curiosity and visualization for addressing societal issues. Frame 3 – Adult learning, situated in research about fostering mathematical understanding and pedagogy for adults in online learning environments. My research contributes new knowledge regarding the complexities of task design as intention and introduces a new model, Model for Framing and Analyzing Intentionality in Task Design (MFAI).