From September 8 to 12, 2024, Patrick Schreyer (University of Kassel), Alexandra Dannenberg (University of Kassel), and Elisa Wagner (MLU Halle-Wittenberg) participated in the international BERA/WERA conference in Manchester, UK, representing the Research Training Group INTERFACH. As part of a symposium entitled “Intersections of Language and Learning: Multidisciplinary Insights within the Research Training Group INTERFACH,” they presented their research findings and offered engaging insights into the interplay between interaction and professionalism. The symposium was moderated by Johanna Leicht (MLU Halle-Wittenberg), with Nikolaj Elf (University of Southern Denmark) serving as commentator.
Alexandra Dannenberg opened the symposium with a presentation addressing when and how language influences elementary school mathematics lessons, as well as whether and how linguistic differences can impact mathematical learning. Drawing on ethnographic observations, she highlighted in detail how linguistic and mathematical practices intertwine within the classroom.
Elisa Wagner focused on interactions in elementary school mathematics lessons, examining how pupils communicate about mathematical patterns and structures. She analyzed two specific types of partner interactions, which she illustrated using transcript excerpts.
In his presentation, Patrick Schreyer shed light on German lessons in a 3rd-grade class, using video sequences from the INTERFACH video study to illustrate how pupils approach spelling tasks. He highlighted two contrasting methods that students in the same class use to solve these tasks.
Nikolaj Elf summarized the contributions from various perspectives and enriched the symposium with targeted questions, which stimulated an in-depth discussion and inspiring exchange among the participants.