Society information

The Research Council on Mathematics Learning, formerly The Research Council for Diagnostic and Prescriptive Mathematics, grew from a seed planted at a 1974 national conference held at Kent State University. A need for an informational sharing structure in diagnostic, prescriptive, and remedial mathematics was identified by James W. Heddens. A group of invited professional educators convened to explore, discuss, and exchange ideas especially in regard to pupils having difficulty in learning mathematics. It was noted that there was considerable fragmentation and repetition of effort in research on learning deficiencies at all levels of student mathematical development. The discussions centered on how individuals could pool their talents, resources, and research efforts to help develop a body of knowledge. The intent was for teams of researchers to work together in collaborative research focused on solving student difficulties encountered in learning mathematics.

Specific areas identified were:

1. Synthesize innovative approaches.
2. Create insightful diagnostic instruments.
3. Create diagnostic techniques.
4. Develop new and interesting materials.
5. Examine research reporting strategies.

As a professional organization, the Research Council on Mathematics Learning (RCML) may be thought of as a vehicle to be used by its membership to accomplish specific goals. There is opportunity for everyone to actively participate in RCML. Indeed, such participation is mandatory if RCML is to continue to provide a forum for exploration, examination, and professional growth for mathematics educators at all levels.

The Founding Members of the Council are those individuals that presented papers at one of the first three National Remedial Mathematics Conferences held at Kent State University in 1974, 1975, and 1976.