Place-based mathematics and Projection Augmented Landscape Models (PALM) on the Tiwi Islands: Building Powerful Aboriginal Hypothetical Learning Trajectory

This paper presents an account of a new place-based education initiative using both the
mathematical construct of hypothetical learning trajectory and the 3D printing technology or
Projection Augmented Landscape Models (PALM), as a tool for learning. The goal of the
pilot study is to create bridges between Aboriginal and Western ways of knowing and
learning to enable academic success in the challenging area of mathematics. The project
explores powerful ways to construct cultural learning trajectory in which Tiwi preservice
teachers can apply their prior traditional knowledge to their learning and teaching of Western
mathematical constructs, within the Australian curriculum strand of geometry/measurement.
The outcomes of this unique Tiwi project are significant because it is an applied research
project using 3D PALM technology for educational purposes, particularly knowledge
exchange in Aboriginal contexts. This application is unique as such technology to date has
been used largely in applications related to land management.