Kathleen Clark

Kathleen Clark is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Education. She previously held roles including Professor and Director at Florida State University’s School of Teacher Education. Her research focuses on mathematics education, particularly integrating historical perspectives into teaching, student learning experiences, and curriculum development. Clark holds a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Maryland and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics from the University of West Florida.

Her academic journey includes tenure at Florida State University from 2006 to 2023, where she advanced through Assistant to Associate and ultimately Full Professor roles. At UAB, she leads the Curriculum and Instruction department while maintaining an adjunct role. Clark’s work emphasizes the use of primary historical sources in mathematics education, addressing student transitions, equity issues, and innovative teaching methodologies.

Her research explores themes such as transgressive pedagogy, the role of affective factors in learning, and the application of historical context to enhance mathematical understanding. Notable projects include the TRIUMPHS initiative (Transforming Instruction in Undergraduate Mathematics via Primary Historical Sources), funded by the National Science Foundation. Clark’s contributions bridge historical scholarship with modern educational practices, aiming to improve teaching efficacy and student engagement.

Her recent publications analyze student experiences with primary sources, gender and racial equity in mathematics, and the integration of history into curricula. Despite no explicit mention of awards, her extensive grant work and leadership roles reflect significant recognition in her field.