RUME 28
2026
Alexandria, Virginia
The Nature of a Community of Practice: Social Expectations at an Informal Summer Mathematics Program
Page: 1187
We present results from a pilot study conducted to inform possible directions for further investigation focused on a specific community of practice: an informal summer mathematics program for mathematically talented students. While the program is attended by high school students, they take undergraduate level proof-based courses and engage in research at a level comparable to a research experience for undergraduates. Journals and interviews were used to investigate aspects of the program using Wenger's Communities of Practice theoretical framework, which describes social characteristics of a community of practice in terms of mutual engagement, joint enterprise, and shared repertoire. Suggestions for feedback from the reader and audience are included.