Introducing the ProInterest model: Designing tasks for sustainable positive mathematics experiences

Laura Tuohilampi; Huifei Jiang

doi:10.31129/LUMAT.12.3.2373

Authors

Laura Tuohilampi The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8117-4269
Huifei Jiang The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3364-1257

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31129/LUMAT.12.3.2373

Keywords:

engagement in mathematics, interest development, mathematics tasks, ProInterest model, task design

Abstract

This study introduces the ProInterest model, a novel framework designed to foster long-term student engagement in mathematics. ProInterest model identifies features that trigger initial interest and subsequently sustain student interest towards mathematics activities. We explore the interplay between these features based on a focused narrative review and demonstrate their application through a case analysis of two mathematics tasks that look different on the surface, yet can be identified to share common features fostering interest when looked through the lense of the ProInterest model. We also apply the model to tasks generated by experts and AI. We show that applying the model to identify features that can trigger and maintain student interest towards a task, one can reveal shortcomings in typical mathematics tasks: humour and creativity are typically missing, and even tasks aimed to be tailored to appeal to students may utilise unimaginative layout and structure. This research bridges a critical gap in the knowledge of interest promoting mathematics tasks by providing a practical tool for educators and instructional designers to create engaging mathematics experiences.

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