ABSTRACT
International video analyses of Japanese mathematics classrooms showed how Japanese teachers teach new mathematical concepts by giving students compelling mathematical challenges to solve independently and discuss. This progressive approach not only differed from typical U.S. classrooms but from other Asian classrooms as well. How did Japanese educators come up with such a unique method? How did it spread throughout Japan as a major approach to teaching mathematics? In this chapter, I will share my insights based on decades of being front and center in Japan’s education reform movement and the development of Mondai Kaiketsu Gakushuu or Teaching Through Problem-solving in English.
