August 16, 2024 marked a significant milestone in the field of mathematics education as Emeritus Professor Kaye Stacey was awarded the prestigious Emma Castelnuovo Award. This award recognizes Professor Stacey’s more than 40 years of research-based design, development, and implementation of innovative practices in mathematics education. The Emma Castelnuovo Award is a highly esteemed international accolade within the mathematics education research community, highlighting Professor Stacey’s influential contributions to the field.
The award was presented to Professor Stacey at the 15th International Congress on Mathematical Education held in Sydney, where 3,000 mathematics educators gathered to explore current global trends in mathematics education research and teaching practices. The Academy congratulated Professor Stacey for her well-deserved recognition, acknowledging her significant impact on mathematics education over the course of her career.
Professor Stacey’s relationship with the Academy has been longstanding, with her serving as a director of the Academy’s reSolve: Mathematics by Inquiry project for its initial three years. Her work with the Academy played a pivotal role in her receiving the Emma Castelnuovo Award. Professor Stacey’s expertise in problem-solving, integrating new technologies, and researching student thinking has influenced assessments worldwide, benefiting countless teachers and students.
Having started her career in pure mathematics and earning a doctorate in number theory from the University of Oxford, Professor Stacey’s passion for mathematics and its practical applications has been a driving force behind her work. She believes that the core goal of mathematics is to solve significant problems, and the aim of mathematical education is to prepare students for this challenge. Professor Stacey’s dedication to this vision mirrors that of Emma Castelnuovo, as she strives to make mathematics education meaningful and engaging for both teachers and students.
During her tenure as the Foundation Chair of Mathematics Education at the University of Melbourne, Professor Stacey led numerous research-based projects at various levels, leaving a lasting impact on the field. Her commitment to developing mathematical education at all levels aligns with the principles of the International Commission on Mathematical Instruction (ICMI), which established the Emma Castelnuovo Award to honor outstanding achievements in the practice of mathematics education.
In conclusion, Professor Kaye Stacey’s receipt of the Emma Castelnuovo Award is a testament to her dedication, innovation, and influence in the field of mathematics education. Her work has not only shaped the way mathematics is taught and learned but has also inspired educators worldwide to strive for excellence in their practice. The award serves as a fitting tribute to Professor Stacey’s remarkable contributions to the field and her unwavering commitment to enhancing mathematics education for future generations.