AUTHOR=Choppin Jeffrey , Al Saliha , Li Junnan , Wilkes Charles E. , Calleros Ernesto Daniel 

TITLE=Developing a visual model to represent the implementation of an ambitious mathematics program

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Education

VOLUME=Volume 10 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/education/articles/10.3389/feduc.2025.1579921

DOI=10.3389/feduc.2025.1579921

ISSN=2504-284X

ABSTRACT=We describe the development of a visual model to represent the implementation of an ambitious mathematics program, which serves as an example of a complex educational reform. Visual models can be both conceptual and empirical, representing aspirational and theoretical perspectives while simultaneously incorporating empirical details specific to the context. Integrating conceptual and empirical aspects leads to tensions in managing the complexity of the model. Our process began with a simple model that guided our empirical work, which involved qualitative analysis. As we explored the systems and resources associated with the implementation of the ambitious mathematics program, the model took on more detail and complexity, both conceptually and empirically. In subsequent iterations of the model, we encountered tensions in balancing conceptual and empirical purposes, as well as challenges in displaying its emerging complexity.