Characteristics of Learning Environments in Which Students Are Open to Risk Taking and Mistake Making

The fear of making mistakes and avoidance of risks can create disabling anxiety and limit learning opportunities. However, it is possible to teach mathematics in ways that not only reduce student agency but also have the effect of excluding some students. This article proposes approaches that are intended to both foster student decision making and a sense of inclusion in classroom learning. It describes some characteristics of classrooms that may go some way to minimising student anxiety without reducing the opportunities for cognitive activation. There are three parts that are discussed: features of tasks posed, pedagogical approaches, and classroom culture.