Associate Professor | Oklahoma State University | United States
Michael A. Tallman is an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education at Oklahoma State University, where he has been a faculty member since 2016. His research focuses on the intersection of pedagogy and content knowledge in mathematics education, with an emphasis on improving teaching practices and student learning outcomes. Tallman’s work has been recognized through various awards and publications, highlighting his contributions to the field.
Profile
ORCID
Strengths
- Impressive Research Record: Michael A. Tallman has a strong publication record with numerous peer-reviewed journal articles in reputable journals such as the Journal of Mathematical Behavior and PRIMUS. His research topics cover significant aspects of mathematics education, including pedagogical content knowledge, conceptual assessment in calculus, and secondary teacher knowledge.
- Recognition and Awards: He has received several awards for his teaching and research, including the Robert G. Maule Excellence in Teaching Mathematics Award and the Graduate and Professional Student Association Teaching Excellence Award. These accolades highlight his contributions and excellence in the field of mathematics education.
- Diverse Research Interests: Tallman’s research spans a variety of topics within mathematics education, from assessing calculus teaching methods to understanding teacher knowledge transformation. This diversity indicates a broad and deep engagement with key issues in the field.
- Collaborative Work: His co-authorship with notable researchers such as A. Weinberg and M. P. Carlson demonstrates successful collaboration and a respected presence in the research community.
- Educational Impact: His focus on improving pedagogical content knowledge and conceptual understanding reflects a commitment to enhancing mathematics education, which aligns well with the goals of the Research for Best Researcher Award.
Areas for Improvement
- Broader Impact Metrics: While Tallman’s research is robust, providing more information about the broader impact of his work, such as its influence on policy or practice in mathematics education, could strengthen his case. For example, citations of his work or feedback from educational practitioners could be highlighted.
- Recent Research Trends: The latest publications are from 2024 and 2023, showing ongoing research activity. However, showcasing any cutting-edge or emerging trends he is addressing could further demonstrate his position at the forefront of research.
- Expanded Research Contributions: While Tallman has made significant contributions, highlighting any novel methodologies, theoretical advancements, or interdisciplinary approaches he has developed or applied could enhance the perception of his research contributions.
- Teaching and Research Integration: Although Tallman’s teaching awards reflect his excellence, integrating specific examples of how his research has directly influenced his teaching practice, or vice versa, could provide a more holistic view of his impact.
Education
Michael A. Tallman earned his Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences at Arizona State University in 2015. He holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Northern Colorado (2010) and a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the same institution (2007). His educational background provides a solid foundation for his expertise in mathematics education and research.
Experience
Tallman began his career as a Mathematics Teacher at Mountain Range High School in Westminster, Colorado, where he taught from 2007 to 2010. He then transitioned into academia as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Mathematics Education at Oklahoma State University from 2015 to 2016. He has since progressed from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Oklahoma State University.
Research Interests
Tallman’s research interests include pedagogical content knowledge, conceptual assessment in calculus, and the transformation of teacher knowledge. His work investigates how mathematical concepts are taught and understood, aiming to enhance both instructional practices and student learning experiences in mathematics education.
Awards
Tallman has received several notable awards, including the Robert G. Maule Excellence in Teaching Mathematics Award from Arizona State University in 2015 and the Graduate and Professional Student Association Teaching Excellence Award in the same year. Additionally, he was honored as a Fellow of the AMTE Service, Teaching, and Research (STaR) Program in 2017.
Publications
Tallman, M. A., Weaver, J., & Johnson, T. (accepted). Developing (pedagogical) content knowledge of constant rate of change: The case of Samantha. The Journal of Mathematical Behavior. Link
Weinberg, A., Corey, D., Tallman, M. A., Martin, J., & Jones, S. (2024). Observing intellectual need and its relationship with students’ learning of calculus. International Journal of Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education, 10(1), 1-31. Link
Tallman, M. A. (2023). What makes pedagogical content knowledge “pedagogical”? Reconnecting PCK to its Deweyan foundations. The Mathematics Educator, 31(1), 100-128. Link
Reed, Z., Tallman, M. A., & Oehrtman, M. (2023). Assessing productive meanings in calculus. PRIMUS, 33(9), 939-964. Link
Reed, Z., Tallman, M. A., Oehrtman, M., & Carlson, M. P. (2022). Characteristics of conceptual assessment items in calculus. PRIMUS, 32(8), 881-901. Link
Tallman, M. A. (2021). Investigating the transformation of a secondary teacher’s knowledge of trigonometric functions. The Journal of Mathematical Behavior, 62. Link
Tallman, M. A., Reed, Z., Oehrtman, M., & Carlson, M. P. (2021). What meanings are assessed in collegiate calculus in the United States? ZDM Mathematics Education, 53(3), 577-589. Link
Tallman, M. A. & Frank, K. M. (2020). Angle measure, quantitative reasoning, and instructional coherence: An examination of the role of mathematical ways of thinking as a component of teachers’ knowledge base. Journal of Mathematics Teacher Education, 23(1), 69-95. Link
Tallman, M. A., Carlson, M. P., Bressoud, D., & Pearson, M. (2016). A characterization of calculus I final exams in U.S. colleges and universities. International Journal of Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education, 2(1), 105-133. Link
Madison, B. L., Carlson, M. P., Oehrtman, M., & Tallman, M. A. (2015). Conceptual precalculus: Strengthening students’ quantitative and covariational reasoning. Mathematics Teacher, 109(1), 54-59. Link
Conclusion
Michael A. Tallman is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award, with a distinguished record of research, teaching excellence, and contributions to the field of mathematics education. His extensive publication record and recognition through awards underscore his research impact and commitment to advancing mathematics education.