Richard A. Edwards

Richard A. Edwards is an East Holmes Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Lyman Briggs College, Michigan State University, and faculty in the MSU Graduate Program in Mathematics Education (PRIME). He teaches diverse undergraduate mathematics courses and directs a study abroad program exploring mathematical history in Florence, Paris, and London.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from Michigan State University
• M.A. in Mathematics from Cleveland State University
• B.S. in Integrated Mathematics Education from Ashland University

Dr. Edwards researches the integration of primary historical sources in undergraduate mathematics instruction and cultural history of mathematics, focusing on 16th-17th century Italian calculus developments. He examines how historical context bridges communication gaps between instructors and students, revealing the human narratives behind mathematical concepts to enhance accessibility and engagement in education.

His 2016-2022 publications demonstrate consistent integration of historical narratives across combinatorics, vector calculus, and quantitative literacy, primarily emerging from collaborative projects like TRIUMPHS and the Quantitative Literacy Project. These works reflect his commitment to innovative curriculum design that connects mathematical theory with cultural context.

His scientific awards include:

• 2022 Distinguished Teaching Award from the Mathematical Association of America (Michigan Section)
• 2020 REACT Calculus Fellowship for creativity research
• 2018 Study Abroad Program Development Grant from ACCENT International
• 2012 University Distinguished Fellowship from MSU's College of Natural Science
• 2010 Lewis Educational Research Grant from NASA Glenn Research Center

Dr. Edwards advises doctoral students in mathematics education and directs an education abroad program. His grant-funded initiatives include TRIUMPHS (primary source-based curriculum development) and the Quantitative Literacy Project (designing courses for non-STEM majors), demonstrating sustained commitment to educational innovation through external funding.

He actively collaborates with the TRIUMPHS multi-university consortium as site tester and curriculum designer, and has contributed to the Connected Mathematics Project (textbook revision) and Preparing to Teach Algebra Project (data analysis), working within interdisciplinary teams to advance mathematics education research and pedagogical practices.