About the Project

This proposed PhD project will focus on advancing automated assessment in secondary or tertiary mathematics education through the use of modern e-assessment software like STACK – a computer algebra–based assessment system. Prospective candidates are invited to propose their own precise research project, and may wish to refer to the collaboratively derived research agenda published in Kinnear et al. (2022). Example topics include assessing higher-order mathematical reasoning, designing meaningful formative feedback, evaluating validity and fairness in e-assessment, or examining the impact of automated assessment on student learning and equity.

The study may adopt a range of appropriate research designs, including experimental or quasi-experimental studies, learning analytics approaches, qualitative classroom-based inquiry, mixed-methods research, or theoretical and design-focused investigations of assessment tasks. The overarching aim is to generate robust evidence and practical guidance for the effective and pedagogically sound use of e-assessment in mathematics education.

The project has potential impact at classroom, institutional, and policy levels by informing scalable assessment practices that enhance feedback, support conceptual understanding, and maintain mathematical integrity.

An ideal candidate will have a strong background in mathematics, mathematics education, or a related discipline, an interest in digital assessment and/or educational technology. Experience with standard research methods within education and social sciences is preferred, but is not necessary for an application to be considered.

For enquiries for this project, please email Dr Ben Davies Ben.Davies@soton.ac.uk.