(Dr. Fonger, Professor Fonger, Mom, Nic, Nicky)
Hi. I’m Nicole.
Nicole L. Fonger is an Associate Professor of Mathematics and Mathematics Education at Syracuse University. Her research agenda focuses on supporting students’ meaningful learning of algebra in K-12 school settings.
She conducts empirical and theoretical research, design studies, and youth participatory action research. She also creates sketchnotes to visualize and disseminate research.
As a community-engaged researcher, she builds relationships with teachers and youth, focusing on historically responsive literacy and social justice mathematics to support marginalized students.
Based in Syracuse since 2017, Nicole is am a dedicated parent, community member, artist, writer, and math education professor.
Nicole L. Fonger
Highlights
Meaning is a creative act.
Nicole L. Fonger
My latest work
Equitable Communication to Link Research & Practice
I network metaphors for linking research and practice with an equity lens to examine effective communication for linking research and practice. #AERA21 View the PDF of the presentation or paper.
Exploring the Intersection of Antiracism & Algebra
How is the gatekeeper role of algebra intertwined with racism? I’m building an Antiracist Algebra Coalition a team of folks dedicated to racial justice in Syracuse, NY. Join us! View a PDF of the project aims here.
A Learning Trajectory for Quadratic Function
Together with Dr. Amy Ellis and Dr. Fatih Dogan, we developed a learning trajectory for quadratic function. Read the article here.
Math Ed Sketchnotes & Zines
I sketch my own ideas and the ideas of others. I focus on sketching about learning and teaching algebra in mathematics education to link research and practice. I also create #zines like this one on equity and redlining.
A Heart Centered Lens
This study suggests the possibility of using creative artistic expression to support the transformation of educators’ perspectives… Read the article
Culturally Responsive Education
I draw on the perspectives of thought leaders to explore What is reality pedagogy (Christopher Emdin)?What is an equity lens in mathematics education (Rochelle Gutierrez)? Read More.
Linking Research & Practice
Theory and practice go hand in hand. I’m on a quest to engage in critical conversations to strengthen these connections, and take action toward a shared vision for improved mathematics education for all students.
Teaching and Mentoring
Culturally Responsive Education
Center student voice through cultural competence, build caring teacher-student relationships as a grounding for academic achievement, and cultivate critical consciousness to transform educational opportunities.
Teaching Statement
As a teacher my goal is to support students’ rich opportunities to learn meaningful mathematics. I ground my practice in research and theory on learning, teaching, and equity in mathematics education.
Mentoring: Job Search
Choosing a career in academia can be a rewarding journey.
I’ve spent a lot of time on the job market. I’ve captured some processes, products, and guiding questions that I’ve found productive to help me along the way.
Sketchnotes
Math Ed Sketchnotes
I utilize sketchnotes to share theories and practices relevant to the field mathematics education and culturally responsive education.
What, Why, How
Sketchnoting is a relaxing practice that aims to capture ideas in images and text in an engaging way
Learn to Sketchnote
Sketchnotes combine image and text as a unique visual synthesis. No pre-requisite experience is required.
Writings on life from the perspective of a heart centered yogi mama, mindful educator, writer, mother, curator of joy, healing artist. I also blog about connection, authenticity, expression.
- What is algebra?
What counts as meaningful algebra? Who is supported to learn algebra meaningfully? I’m excited to share a compilation of research and practice through the visual strategy of sketchnotes in a forthcoming book. Please reach out for inquiries about workshops and events. Fonger, N. L. (2024). Making algebra meaningful: A visual approach to math literacy forContinue reading “What is algebra?” - Data Warriors Safe Communities EventJoin us! All are welcome at this free, family friendly event on Saturday Dec. 2 from 2:30-4:30 pm at SALT Space 103 Wyoming St. Syracuse. Highlights: free food, a dj, giveaways, guest speakers, interactive displays by high school students and teachers and SU students and faculty Signup here: https://bit.ly/DataWarriorsDec2 The Data Warriors focus on education andContinue reading “Data Warriors Safe Communities Event”
- “It was meaningful because…”
“It was meaningful because this is now my home” – research, design, and evaluation of meaningful math lessons at the undergraduate level. A zine. - Syracuse Truth Seekers June 10 2023 Lead Poisoning Prevention Event
Join us at the Nottingham H.S. Courtyard (3100 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY) on June 10, 2023 from Noon-2PM for a Youth-Centered Education and Advocacy Event focused on Lead Poisoning Prevention in Syracuse. What? We will have free food, music, and hands-on activities! Youth, teachers, students, and professors will showcase educational posters, maps, hands-on activities,Continue reading “Syracuse Truth Seekers June 10 2023 Lead Poisoning Prevention Event” - Culturally and historically responsive math tasks.Here are the most recent iterations of the math tasks we use with youth and young adults. These lessons were collaboratively developed by the Antiracist Algebra Coalition, the Syracuse Truth Seekers, and the Meaningful Math Research Group at Syracuse University. Social and Environmental Justice Math Tasks Highway 81, Redlining, and White Flight, Population Trends, LinearContinue reading “Culturally and historically responsive math tasks.”
- Cultivating math genius.
How do you cultivate students’ math genius? Through intentional designs for learning that build skills from students’ identities, that grow intellect and criticality, and that spark joy.
Nicole L. Fonger 