Revealing theory and enhancing practice: The Purdue Problem-Centered Mathematics Curriculum Project

ABSTRACT In this article, we explore Terry Wood’s participation in the Purdue Problem-Centered Mathematics Curriculum Project, along with the rich and enduring personal and professional friendships that she built with the classroom teachers who were so important to the project. We highlight connections between these working relationships and the research publications that resulted from the project. The contributions of classroom teachers, Graceann Merkel and Janell Uerkwitz are evident in several of the papers published by Terry and the other researchers, including Erna Yackel, Paul Cobb and others. The testimonies and personal stories that each of these teachers shared during and following the May 2021 Terry Wood Memorial Event provide an enhanced picture of her contributions to their teaching practice and professional lives. As such, we gain insights into the reciprocal relationships and learning that occurs between education researchers and their partner classroom teachers.