Janet Fofang

Papers

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About

Janet Fofang’s research sits at the intersection of mathematics education, embodied cognition, and maker-based learning. Her most cited work, “Unpacking Mathematical Play within Makerspaces using Embodied Cognition” (2020), offers a groundbreaking look at how youth develop mathematical thinking through hands-on making activities. By analyzing GoPro video data, Fofang reveals how different modalities—from the Blockly iPad app to the Dash robot, tape, and physical paths—enable learners to embody and externalize mathematical concepts in ways traditional instruction cannot. This work has garnered 5 citations and serves as a foundational piece for understanding play as a legitimate pathway to mathematical reasoning. Fofang’s contributions challenge educators to rethink the role of physical interaction and design in STEM learning, highlighting how makerspaces can become rich environments for conceptual development. Her research is particularly valuable for scholars interested in the cognitive and social dimensions of learning, offering concrete evidence that mathematical play is not mere fun but a rigorous, embodied process. Fofang’s work continues to inspire new approaches to integrating making and mathematics in both formal and informal educational settings.