Mark Applebaum

Professor of Mathematics Education, Kaye Academic College of Education, Israel.

Prof. Mark Applebaum is an internationally recognized scholar in mathematics education and a leading voice in the integration of creativity, critical thinking, and innovation in STEM teaching. He serves as Professor in the Department of Mathematics Education at Kaye Academic College of Education in Be’er Sheva, Israel, where since 2023 he has also been the Head of the Integrative STEM Education M.Ed. Program. His research explores the intersections of mathematics learning, creative pedagogy, and teacher preparation, emphasizing approaches that connect theoretical insights with real classroom practice. Prof. Applebaum’s recent work focuses on fostering creativity and critical thinking through mathematical games and competitions, the role of humor in mathematics classrooms, and the potential of online and distance learning to cultivate innovative thinking. His 2025 publications include Fostering Creative and Critical Thinking through Math Games: A Case Study of Bachet’s Game, which demonstrates how playful learning environments enhance higher-order thinking skills in teacher training; From Laughter to Learning: The Power of Humor in Mathematics Education, which shows how humor reduces math anxiety and fosters engagement; and Cultivating Creative Minds: An Online Math Course’s Impact on Chinese Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic, which investigates cross-cultural creativity in digital learning environments. A dedicated educator and researcher, Prof. Applebaum has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and actively contributes to academic committees on research, evaluation, and faculty development at Kaye College. His work has had significant impact both in Israel and internationally, inspiring new approaches to inclusive and engaging mathematics education. Through his scholarship, he continues to shape the future of teacher training and mathematics learning, highlighting the importance of classrooms that are not only rigorous but also creative, motivating, and socially responsive.