Richard Lesh '66
Richard Lesh '66 is an internationally recognized leader in the assessment of children's proportional reasoning and mathematical problem solving, as well as a pioneer in computer-assisted teaching. He currently serves as the Rudy Distinguished Professor of Learning Sciences at Indiana University, and the chair of the Department of Learning Sciences in the School of Education. He is also the associate editor for the International Journal for Mathematical Thinking & Learning.
Lesh has authored more than 250 journal articles and books including books for children through college as well as for research scientists. In addition to work as a software developer, he has served as the principal research scientist for the Educational Testing Service.
From 1998-2004, Lesh served as the R.B. Kane Distinguished Professor of Education at Purdue University and from 1995 to 1998, as Professor of Mathematics, University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth. Prior to this, he served as principal research scientist for Educational Testing Service. Lesh spent the previous 16 years teach mathematics as Rutgers University, Columbia University and Northwestern University.
He founded the Princeton Research Institute for Science and Mathematics, and co-founded the Research Organization for Psychology of Mathematics Education, as well as the International Journal of Mathematics Thinking and Learning.
Lesh's recent books include, "Modeling Perspectives on Mathematics Problem Solving, Learning & Teaching," (2003); "Foundations for the Future in Mathematics Education," (2006); "The Handbook of Design Research in Mathematics & Science Education," (2008); and "Modeling Students' Modeling Competencies," (2009).
Lesh holds a master's degree in mathematics (statistics and topology) and a doctorate in mathematics and cognitive psychology, both from Indiana University.
At Hanover, Lesh majored in mathematics and physics; perhaps the only major ever in that field to be the starting quarterback on the football team. He was also a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
