معرفی
Sarah Porcenaluk is an Assistant Lecturer in Education with expertise in primary mathematics at the University of Galway, working within the Department of Arts, Mathematics, PE and Early Childhood. She teaches multiple mathematics education modules including Math Methods 2, Math Methods 3, and Early Mathematical Awareness for both Bachelor of Education and Early Childhood Education programs. Prior to her academic position, she gained extensive practical experience as a primary school teacher in the United States for ten years and served as an Instructional Mathematics Coach supporting teacher professional development.
Her educational background includes:
- M.Ed. in K-8 Mathematics and Science Education from the University of Central Florida (2019)
- B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida (2012)
Sarah's research focuses on primary mathematics education, with particular emphasis on how to support teachers during curriculum reform. She investigates how to design effective professional development for primary mathematics teachers and create educative curriculum materials that help teachers implement new standards faithfully. Her work addresses critical challenges in mathematics education, particularly how to maintain rigorous mathematical content while making it accessible to all learners during periods of educational change. She examines the role of higher-level thinking questions in mathematics lessons and how these can be used to deepen student understanding and engagement.
Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on curriculum reform in mathematics education, particularly in the Irish context. A clear trend emerges across her work: supporting teachers through meaningful professional development during periods of educational change. Her research consistently addresses how to translate curriculum reforms into effective classroom practice, with particular attention to primary mathematics education. She explores various approaches including educative curriculum materials, electronic toolkits, and frameworks for continuous professional development that help teachers implement new standards while maintaining mathematical rigor.
Her notable recognition includes:
- University of Galway Threesis Competition Finalist (2022)
Sarah is actively involved in mentoring and professional development, having served as an Instructional Mathematics Coach where she aided the professional learning of primary teachers. She has presented numerous webinars through organizations like the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and Galway Education Centre, focusing on practical strategies for mathematics instruction. Her current doctoral research on "Designing Educative Curriculum Materials for Primary Mathematics Teachers for Use During Curriculum Reform" represents a significant contribution to the field, supervised by Professor Cornelia Connolly at the University of Galway.
She is an active member of several professional organizations including the Educational Studies Association of Ireland, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and Irish Mathematics Teachers' Association, which provides her with opportunities to collaborate with educators across Ireland and internationally. Her personal website, Sarahporcenaluk.com, features resources for mathematics educators, reflecting her commitment to sharing practical teaching strategies and supporting the mathematics education community.
