Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Mathematics Alliance

The inaugural ATSIMA Conference 2014 Creating Connections and Growing Understanding was held from 10-11 November at the Lakes Resort, West Lakes in Adelaide. The Conference included a showcase of classroom practice; forums for discussions about teaching and learning, initiatives and projects that are making a difference; a national agenda for change and for research; keynote addresses from leaders in maths education for Indigenous learners and from Indigenous employment.

The conference was built on the success of the AAMT Special Interest Conference Numeracy, mathematics and Indigenous learners held in late 2012. The conference included over 100 representatives from school and higher education, communities, and business and industry.

As a result of the 2012 conference, a  blueprint outlining a 'call for change' was generated and a series of symposiums was held around the country.

• Form the National Network for Mathematics Learning of Indigenous Young People that establishes and drives state and regional networks.
  
  
• Investigate how national initiatives can adopt a focus on mathematics education for Indigenous students.
  
  
• Support the development of responsive pedagogy in mathematics.
  
  
• Review the extent to which teacher education programs support graduates to develop knowledge and skills in teaching mathematics to Indigenous students.
  
  
• Develop leaders who work at the intersection of Indigenous education and mathematics education. This includes creating leadership positions for school based Indigenous educators.
  
  
• Review and develop improved policy and approaches to cultural competency and mathematics.

In October 2012, the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers Inc held the national Special Interest Conference Numeracy, mathematics and Indigenous learners that showcased outstanding educators.