New era for mathematics teaching: focus on inclusion at the University of Hildesheim!

New era for mathematics teaching: focus on inclusion at the University of Hildesheim!

On April 25, 2025 it was announced that Prof. Dr. Henning Sievert has held the professorship for mathematics didactics at the University of Hildesheim since the summer semester of 2025. His main topic is the inclusive design of mathematics lessons, with a particular focus on school books, early education and career guidance. Prof. Sievert brings extensive expertise from research and practice, which he uses in the development of quality criteria for mathematics textbooks and in projects to improve the learning environment for all students.

During his time at school, Sievert realized that many of his classmates had difficulties with mathematics, which sparked his interest in this area. For his doctorate, he worked at the Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) in Kiel, particularly as part of the IPN textbook study. This laid the foundation for his later research efforts.

Research priorities and projects

A central concern of Prof. Sievert is to facilitate learning processes and break down barriers for children. In this context, he is cooperating with the University of Flensburg to integrate basic computer science education into primary school. Another notable project he is involved in is called MAMBO (“Making the Most of Mathematics Books”). In this project he works together with researchers from Kiel and Hamburg and examines the role of textbooks in mathematics lessons.

The MAMBO project covers a variety of topics, including stochastics, dealing with data and chance, dice games and number estimation, and creating lesson plans. These approaches aim to deepen mathematical knowledge in school while promoting enthusiasm for the subject.

Including specialist didactics

Another important aspect that Prof. Sievert and his work bring to the fore is inclusive mathematics teaching. The goal here is the participation and participation of all learners. This includes teaching mathematical skills for school and extracurricular areas of application. Particular attention is paid to individual access to mathematics.

The importance of the language and the learning content for the individual also play an important role in inclusive subject didactics. In a publication by Dr. Birgit Werner, Professor of Pedagogy of Learning Promotion at the Heidelberg University of Education, presents concepts that combine subject-specific, special and inclusionary education knowledge. The book offers a sound basis for developing inclusive teaching and is available starting at €28.00.

In summary, it can be seen that Prof. Dr. Henning Sievert strives to make a significant contribution to the further development of mathematics teaching with his approaches and projects. His interdisciplinary exchange and interaction with students at the University of Hildesheim underline his commitment to inclusive education that is accessible to everyone.