LEXINGTON, Ky. — A University of Kentucky College of Education faculty member has published a book aimed at transforming elementary mathematics instruction by connecting mathematical learning to core human values and virtues.

Jonathan Thomas, Ed.D., professor of mathematics education and acting chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning, wrote "Exploring Human Virtue in the Math Classroom: Teaching Practices for Student Flourishing in Grades K-5" to address what he sees as a disconnect between traditional math instruction and student engagement. "For a long time, I have been concerned that mathematics teaching, especially at the elementary level, was less engaging than it could be," Thomas said.

Thomas' approach was shaped by a visit to UK from Francis Su, a Harvey Mudd College mathematician and former president of the Mathematical Association of America. Su's work explores how mathematics meets basic human desires such as play, beauty, freedom, justice and love, cultivating virtues that help people flourish. After attending Su's lecture, Thomas set out to create a practical guide for elementary teachers looking to infuse their math lessons with virtues including truth, exploration and community.

The book goes beyond classroom strategies to challenge fundamental assumptions about math education success. While traditional measures like grades and test scores remain important, Thomas argues they tell only part of the story. "We have so many young people who may perform well by traditional measures but still feel disconnected from math," he said. Thomas encourages educators to also consider students' emotional and intellectual engagement, asking whether students find math relevant, useful or fun.

UK College of Education Dean Nicholas J. Pace endorsed the approach, noting that students frequently ask why they must study certain topics. "Students often ask 'Why are we doing this?' and Dr. Thomas' passion for improving math teaching helps answer that question and inspire better teaching and learning," Pace said.

Through chapters addressing approaches rooted in play, meaning, exploration and beauty, Thomas demonstrates how to coordinate particular virtues with elementary math teaching. The book is published by Routledge. Thomas also serves as a faculty associate for the Kentucky Center for Mathematics, which provides professional learning experiences for teachers statewide.

"I hope this gets teachers, principals, professors, parents and other folks that have a hand in children's math experience talking about the deeper 'why' of this whole enterprise," Thomas said. "Why is math important? What is it really for?"