Andreas Obersteiner

Prof. Dr. Andreas Obersteiner serves as Professor of Mathematics Education at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), School of Social Sciences and Technology, Department of Educational Sciences since April 2021. He leads the Chair of Mathematics Education and holds the position of Academic Program Director for the Professional Profile 'Natural Science Education – Teaching at Gymnasium' since 2022. His research centers on mathematical cognition, teacher development, and fraction learning, with significant contributions to understanding cognitive biases in numerical processing.

Education Background

• 1. Staatsexamen for Teaching at Gymnasium (1999-2004)
• 2. Staatsexamen (2005-2007)
• PhD in Educational Sciences, TUM School of Education (2012)
• Habilitation, TUM School of Education (2018)

Research Focus

Prof. Obersteiner's work investigates mathematical cognition with emphasis on mental number representation and the natural number bias in fraction comparison. His research employs eye-tracking methodology to analyze cognitive processes in students and teachers. He develops interventions to enhance teacher diagnostic competence and mathematical learning, particularly through projects like FractAl and FracVisET that address fraction understanding. His interdisciplinary approach bridges educational psychology, cognitive science, and mathematics education.

Publication Trends

His recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on fraction cognition, natural number bias mitigation, and teacher assessment competencies. He frequently employs mixed-methods approaches combining eye-tracking, verbal reports, and experimental interventions. Publication venues include top-tier journals like Learning and Instruction and Educational Studies in Mathematics, reflecting his impact on both theoretical and practical aspects of mathematics education.

Scientific Recognition

• Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (2017-2018)

Academic Leadership

Prof. Obersteiner supervises doctoral candidates including Dr. Sarah Huber and leads multiple funded projects (ALICE, DigiProMIN, COSIMA). As Academic Program Director, he shapes teacher education curricula. His editorial roles include Associate Editor for the Journal of Numerical Cognition (2020-2024) and coordination of EARLI's Special Interest Group 'Conceptual Change' (2019-2023).

Research Infrastructure

He directs the Chair of Mathematics Education at TUM, which operates within the Department of Educational Sciences and collaborates with TUM Referenzgymnasien schools. His team conducts experimental research using eye-tracking labs and digital simulations for teacher training, supported by current projects including RocketTutor and SHARP.