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James Burke

Engineering/Techology Teacher at Somerset Berkley Regional High School

Professional Background

James Burke is a dedicated cross-disciplinary professional, expertly combining his extensive experience in technology development with a passion for mathematics education research. With a robust background in both industry and educational environments, James has consistently harnessed the power of diverse experiences to generate novel solutions in mathematics pedagogy and technology. His unique approach emphasizes collaboration with teachers and engaging discussions with students, aiming to enhance mathematical thinking at all educational levels.

Currently, James serves as a practicing postdoctoral researcher in mathematics education. His research portfolio is especially impressive, with notable involvement in a highly innovative mixed-methods study aimed at exploring the implications of using coherence as a perspective for understanding teacher knowledge. In this capacity, James has also taken on leadership roles in exploratory projects, including the development of software tools designed to aid teachers in comprehending the dynamic aspects of proportional reasoning.

In addition to his research endeavors, James is a skilled software designer and engineer. He brings invaluable expertise to both small and large-scale projects across various languages and platforms. His collaborative spirit shines through his experience working as part of a team and leading other developers. Notably, he has also shared his knowledge by teaching software development concepts to students of nearly all ages, emphasizing the importance of technology in modern education.

Education and Achievements

James's educational background is firmly rooted in the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, where he earned his PhD, Master of Science, and Bachelor of Science degrees. This strong academic foundation equips him with the deep theoretical and practical understanding of both mathematics and education that informs his research and professional practice.

Throughout his career, James has achieved numerous impressive milestones:

  • He is the Chief Software Developer of SimCalc MathWorlds, contributing significantly to various SimCalc-related grant-funded projects. This role underscores his dual commitment to mathematics education and technology integration.
  • As a research assistant, he played a pivotal role in pioneering the use of Epistemic Network Analysis within Dr. Orrill's groundbreaking study of coherence in teacher knowledge. This work highlights James's aptitude for innovative research methodologies that bridge the gap between theory and practice.
  • His dissertation research focuses on the nature of interactions among teachers and students in mathematics, specifically exploring how a sense of playfulness can enhance mathematical activity. This area of study not only reflects his commitment to educational improvement but also aligns with current trends in math education that emphasize engagement and enjoyment.

Teaching Experience

In his teaching career, James has held various influential positions. He currently serves as an Engineering/Technology Teacher at Somerset Berkley Regional High School, where he imparts knowledge about technology in education. He also continues to offer classes focused on software development. His previous roles include:

  • Adjunct Faculty Instructor at the Community College of Rhode Island, where he fostered a supportive learning environment.
  • Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, further building on his expertise in mathematics education.
  • Lead Instructor and Planner for the Bootstrap Summer Program at New Bedford Public Schools, aimed at empowering students through computer science and mathematics education.
  • Research Assistant and Research Associate / Chief Software Developer at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, contributing significantly to the advancement of educational technology.
  • Content Creator at Consumer Help Web, providing valuable information to the community.
  • As a CyberEd Instructor / Consultant at SimCalc Projects, he was instrumental in enhancing the integration of technology in learning.
  • He also gathered industry experience as a Senior Software Engineer at SimCalc Projects and earlier as a Software Developer at Xenergy and Project Engineer at Unisys Corporation, further enriching his professional repertoire.

By seamlessly blending his expertise in technology and education, James Burke stands as a valuable asset in the field of mathematics education research. His extensive involvement in numerous projects and achievements serves to propel him forward in his mission to enhance mathematical understanding and educational practices. His commitment to innovative teaching methods and his collaborative approach ensure that he will continue to make a significant impact on the next generation of learners.

Related Questions

How did James Burke develop his expertise in mathematics education research?
What inspired James Burke to combine his skills in technology and education?
In what ways has James Burke's research influenced teacher knowledge in mathematics?
What innovative approaches has James Burke implemented in teaching technology in education?
How does James Burke engage students in discussions about mathematical thinking?
What are the key findings from James Burke's dissertation on teacher-student interactions in mathematics?
How does James Burke utilize software development in his educational practices?
What challenges has James Burke faced in leading educational technology projects?
James Burke
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Location

Somerset, Massachusetts, United States