The potential of photography for mathematics education and research–A literature review

Abstract

This literature review examines the use of photography in educational research and in education, to learn how photography could be better used in teaching and learning mathematics and mathematics education research. The authors analyzed 125 publications published between 1975 and 2023 to identify different research methods and teaching solutions that utilize photography. Within educational research two main approaches that are often used combined were photo-elicitation (photographs are used in an interview as a stimulus) and photovoice (taking photographs is a way the participant communicates their perspective). Mathematics education research could also combine these methods, for example in identity research. Our findings regarding teaching show that photographs have an important role in connecting mathematics to the real world and for visualizing mathematics. The best way to engage students is when they take photographs of themselves as a starting point to mathematical activity. Based on this review we identify future exploratory directions and various research gaps.