Mathematical Conversations within the Practice of Mathematics questions underlying assumptions and broadens current perceptions of mathematical practice and discourse. Rather than simply a verbal exchange, a conversational discourse is viewed as a way to maintain our relationships with others as we seek meaning and coherence in our lived experiences. This book explores the nature of mathematical conversations and their place in the practice of mathematics. The necessary incompleteness of expression, explanation, and understanding within mathematical conversations is revealed and explored in this book resulting in alternative images of intelligent action, acceptable explanations, and the nature of mathematics and reality.
«I am very much excited about Lynn Gordon Calvert's new book. By developing the features of a discourse of mathematical conversation she opens a new way of thinking about mathematical knowing which is more in line with an embodied, coemergent, interactivist view of such knowing. Gordon Calvert provides readers with occasions to change and enrich their understandings of mathematics, its knowing and its teaching.» (Tom Kieren, University of Alberta)
«What we gain from this book is an alternative way of looking at mathematical discourse. Gordon Calvert's treatment of mathematical conversation goes well beyond expanding current approaches to discourse. It provides a framework for reconceptualizing it and, in doing so, merges discourse and mathematics into an inseparable whole.» (Erna Yackel, Purdue University Calumet)
«What we gain from this book is an alternative way of looking at mathematical discourse. Gordon Calvert's treatment of mathematical conversation goes well beyond expanding current approaches to discourse. It provides a framework for reconceptualizing it and, in doing so, merges discourse and mathematics into an inseparable whole.» (Erna Yackel, Purdue University Calumet)