Researching Mathematical Modelling Education in Disruptive Times—An Introduction

Mathematical modelling is now a fundamental activity within general education. Its importance is evident from recent global events, which will impact on the lives of future generations. Events and phenomena, such as pandemics or the intensive debate before reaching consensus on the Paris climate agreement, show the need to make informed evidence-based decisions, which are generally rely on mathematical models. Thus, an understanding of mathematical modelling and models needs to be promoted across schooling and in other institutions devoted to education. Recent events and phenomena have also demonstrated the key role of mathematics in forming judgements and making decisions within societal contexts. This volume, which is the result of a conference entitled Researching Mathematical Modelling Education in Disruptive Times, reflects the response of mathematical modelling education researchers to the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 55 papers, organised into 6 sections, included in this volume provide insight into research on mathematical modelling in current disruptive times.