Expanding Playful Engagement to Represent Mathematical Thinking

Presented by: Paul de Lacy & Aisling O'Mahony Hickey

This workshop (45 mins) explores the role of virtual manipulative technology in facilitating the visualisation of mathematical thinking. Designed as a practical, station-based session, it offers activities tailored to educators working across various primary school levels (and potentially post-primary) as well as varied areas of mathematics. Participants will engage in hands-on exploration, modelling potential solutions to open-ended mathematical tasks within strand-specific stations. As STEM-related careers increasingly rely on virtual visualisations of mathematical models, early exposure to such tools equips both teachers and students with essential competencies. By integrating these digital learning experiences, educators can foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and digital fluency from an early stage. Ultimately fostering the growth of mathematically competent and technologically proficient learners.

Presenter Biography:

Aisling O’Mahony-Hickey and Paul de Lacy are Professional Learning Leaders with the Oide Primary STEM Team and are engaged in facilitating the roll out of the Primary Mathematics Curriculum.

Aisling (B.Ed, M.Ed(ICT)) has been a primary school teacher for 21 years. She is currently seconded from Knocknacarra NS in Galway where she is an Assistant Principal with responsibilities for Mathematics and Digital Technologies.

Paul (Cert in 21st Century T&L) has been a primary school teacher for 16 years and a CESI member for almost as long. He is seconded from Balla NS, Co Mayo where he acted as ICT Coordinator.