On November 5th, at 4:00 p.m., there will be a session of ISEP Webinars, organized by Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP).

This seminar, presented by Houssam El-Kasti, has as its theme “The diffusion of inovation in Mathematics Education from Teachers and Students' Points of View”.  

To access the seminar, please click here.

Abstract

The pedagogical triangle—comprising the student, teacher, and content—has long presented challenges for all stakeholders in education. The integration of innovation as a fourth vertex further complicates these dynamics, as seen historically in mathematics education with the introduction of tools such as scientific calculators, graphing calculators, and dynamic geometry software. Today, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) continues this pattern, echoing familiar tensions between rapid student adoption and teacher hesitation.

Students tend to embrace technological innovations swiftly, incorporating them into various aspects of their learning and daily lives. In contrast, educators often exhibit reluctance in integrating these tools into their teaching practices, influenced by pedagogical, institutional, and ethical considerations.

This webinar will explore the broader educational challenges associated with innovation, with a particular focus on mathematics education. Drawing on theoretical frameworks, I will analyze the underlying issues and propose strategic solutions to address current and future challenges in the integration of innovative technologies in the classroom.

Bio

Dr. Houssam El-Kasti, from Beirut, Lebanon, is a distinguished Mathematics lecturer at Qatar University’s Foundation Program. With extensive experience in mathematics education, he focuses on empowering teachers to deliver conceptual mathematics through technology.

He has taught undergraduate and graduate courses at leading institutions, including the American University of Beirut (AUB) and the Lebanese University. Dr. El-Kasti has presented at numerous international conferences on mathematics education and technology-enhanced teaching, notably as an invited speaker at the prestigious 14th International Congress on Mathematics Education (ICME 14) in Shanghai, China.

Guided by a humanistic philosophy, he integrates educational theory and research to enrich classroom practice. His advocacy for constructivism and STEAM education reflects his mission to inspire a deeper appreciation for mathematics.

In his latest international collaboration, Dr. El-Kasti partners with Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) in Austria to advance research in mathematics education, instructional design, and STEAM initiatives. Living by his motto, “Never stop learning, never stop teaching,” Dr. El-Kasti exemplifies lifelong dedication to education and knowledge sharing.