Stefanie Rach

Professor Stefanie Rach is a Professor of Mathematics Didactics at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Faculty of Mathematics, Institute for Algebra and Geometry (IAG). She has held this position since 2018, following her appointment as Junior Professor for Didactics of Mathematics at University of Paderborn (2016-2018). Her academic journey began with teacher training in mathematics and physics at Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, where she completed her doctoral dissertation in 2014.

Professor Rach's research focuses on teaching and learning processes in the introductory phase of mathematics studies, particularly in teacher education programs. Her work examines the transition from school to university mathematics, mathematical interest and self-concept, entry requirements for mathematics degrees, and the role of representational forms in learning. She leads several significant research projects including Ex2MoMa (modeling with experiments), situational interest in university mathematics (funded by DFG), mathematical knowledge at study entry, and proof comprehension.

Her recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on student motivation, learning processes, and transition challenges in mathematics education. The research shows increasing emphasis on situational interest, modeling with experiments, and the psychological aspects of learning mathematics at the university level. Her work bridges theoretical educational research with practical applications in mathematics instruction.

Notable research contributions:

• Development of instruments measuring mathematical self-concept and interest
• Analysis of factors influencing student success in university mathematics
• Investigation of proof comprehension and validation processes
• Examination of modeling with experiments in mathematics education
• Research on student dropout from mathematics programs

Professor Rach actively supervises bachelor's and master's theses in mathematics education and teaches courses on mathematics didactics. She serves as vice-member of the Transition Commission of DMV-GDM-MNU and is involved in the Center for Teacher Education and Faculty Council at OvGU Magdeburg. Her research is supported by funding from Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft and Deutsche Telekom Foundation.