Fostering Academic Culture in Mathematics Education: A Strategic Pathway to World-Class University

Abstract

This study aims to examine strategies for developing an academic culture specifically within the field of mathematics education, with the objective of supporting the transformation of universities into world-class institutions. Employing a strategic policy research design with a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative techniques to explore how core academic values and practices in mathematics education—such as critical thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and research innovation—can contribute to global university rankings and reputations. Thematic analysis is used to explore qualitative data, while quantitative findings are analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. The study presents a landscape analysis of academic culture in mathematics education as a foundation for institutional development. It also proposes a structured model of academic culture encompassing educational practices, research engagement, and community outreach in mathematics. Key success factors, such as interdisciplinary collaboration and internationalization, are identified along with the challenges specific to the discipline. Finally, the study outlines actionable strategies for mathematics education departments and institutions to align their academic cultures with world-class university standards.