Conceptual Understanding and Mathematical Learning:
* Conceptual change: Confrey has been instrumental in developing the theory of conceptual change, which describes how individuals learn and change their understanding of complex concepts, including those in mathematics.
* Multiple representations: He emphasizes the importance of using multiple representations of mathematical ideas to help learners develop a deeper understanding.
* Epistemological perspectives: Confrey examines the different ways in which people come to know and understand mathematical concepts, considering the influence of culture, experience, and individual perspectives.
Specific Works:
* "A Review of the Research on Student Conceptions in Mathematics, Science, and Programming" (1990): This influential article lays the groundwork for understanding how students' prior knowledge and experiences can both help and hinder their learning in mathematics.
* "The Evolution of Mathematical Concepts: A Theory of Conceptual Change" (1980): Confrey proposes a theory of how individuals change their understanding of mathematical ideas, drawing upon the work of Piaget and others.
* "A Framework for Investigating Student Understanding of the Concept of Function" (1991): This article explores how students develop their understanding of functions, emphasizing the role of multiple representations and the importance of addressing misconceptions.
* "Multiplicative Structures: Developing the Concept of Multiplication through Composing Actions" (1995): This work examines the development of the concept of multiplication through the lens of composing actions and exploring different representations.
* "The Role of Technology in the Construction of Mathematical Knowledge" (2002): Confrey explores the potential of technology to enhance mathematical learning and support the development of conceptual understanding.
Impact and Influence:
Confrey's work has significantly impacted mathematics education research and practice. His emphasis on conceptual understanding, multiple representations, and the importance of addressing student misconceptions has influenced curriculum development, teacher education, and classroom practices. He has been a leading voice in promoting equity and access to quality mathematics education for all learners.
Beyond the above, Confrey has authored numerous articles, books, and chapters on various aspects of mathematics education. To find more specific works, you can search online databases like Google Scholar or JSTOR using his name as a keyword.