Replication Studies in Mathematics Education: What Kind of Questions Would Be Productive to Explore?

Abstract

This paper presents a reflection on the importance of replication studies in the development of the field of mathematics education. Based on a literature review, it explains what replication studies are, and why they are important for our field. It also addresses the issue of why, despite their apparent importance, replication studies remain scarce. Some open discussions about replication studies in mathematics education are pointed out, and a couple of issues related to replication studies whose empirical exploration could help to advance our research field are identified. Additionally, a typology of fundamental questions and modes of exploration that could guide a replication study in mathematics education is proposed. The paper closes with a discussion about the necessary conditions to promote and further develop replication studies in mathematics education.