Laura Bitto, Ph.D.
- Assistant Professor of Education
Education
I am a mathematics teacher educator and researcher who works with pre-and-in-service mathematics teachers to refine their mathematical content, pedagogical, and leadership knowledge and skills. I believe that mathematics is fundamental to understanding our universe and teachers of mathematics play the critical role of unlocking that knowledge to our future generations. In my research I focus on developing and supporting mathematics teacher leaders. My Ph.D. is in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership with a focus on Mathematics Education from the College of William and Mary. My Masters degree is as a K-8 Mathematics Specialist from the College of William and Mary and my B.A. is in mathematics from McDaniel College. Prior to working in higher education, Laura was a mathematics coach for K-12 teachers and an elementary teacher.
Education
- 2015
- Ph.D.; The College of William & Mary
- 2009
- M.A.; The College of William & Mary
- 2004
- B.A.; McDaniel College
Research Interests
- Mathematical Leadership Knowledge and Skills
- Developing Community in Mathematics Education
- Becoming a Mathematics Teacher Educator
- Rehearsals in Mathematics Education
- Beliefs About Teaching and Learning Mathematics
Recent Courses
- EDU 3314 Teaching Elementary Mathematics
- MAT 2242 Mathematical Structures I
- MAT 3342 Mathematical Structures II
Selected Publications
Baker, C. K. & Bitto, L. E. (2022). Interrogating the tensions of becoming antiracist mathematics teacher educators via critical friendship and rehearsals. Studying Teacher Education, 18(1), 80-97. https://doi.org/10.1080/17425964.2021.1997737
Bitto, L. E., Johnson, P. E., & Terry, B. (2021). Connected at a distance: Experiences and efforts within a synchronous, online mathematics specialist program. Journal of Mathematics and Science: Collaborative Explorations, (17). https://doi.org/10.25891/xqk4-pm04
Baker, C. K. & Bitto, L. E. (2021). Fostering a critical friendship between a program coordinator and an online adjunct to achieve reciprocal mentoring. Studying Teacher Education, 17(2), 188-207. https://doi.org/10.1080/17425964.2021.1903413
Baker, C. K., Bitto, L. E., Wills, T., Galanti, T., & Eatmon, C. (2018). Developing teacher leaders through self-study: A mathematics education field experience. In Hodges, T. E., & Baum, A. (Eds.). Handbook of Research on Field-Based Teacher Education (pp. 635-658). IGI Global.
Bitto, L. E. (2015). Roles, responsibilities, and background experiences of elementary mathematics specialists (Doctoral dissertation). Available from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses database. (UMI No. 3663010)
Clubs and community involvement
Program Coordinator for the Elementary Mathematics Instructional Leader program
I hope that each student in my courses feels a sense of care and belonging. After all, 'Those who have a strong sense of love and belonging have the courage to be imperfect.'