Re-Visioning Mathematical Meanings

Abstract

By exploiting the computer as a window on the multiple ways mathematical meanings are constructed, we have drawn together the different strands of our work in an attempt to formulate a unified theory of mathematical meanings. We have proposed webbing as the pivot of this theory. The idea of webbing emerged during our struggle to reconcile the individual’s role in the construction of mathematical meaning, with the recognition of the part played by epistemological, social and cultural forces. Webbing tries to convey the existence of connections built into the structure of any environment, signposts which assist in navigation: the signposts followed and the connections reconstructed for support stand in a dialectical relationship with the actors in the system.