RootAlpha is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing research-based and neuro-affirming practices into STEM education to increase accessibility and engagement for students of all ages. Our current focus is integrating our Five-Branch Design Framework into pre-aglebra topics.

Cinquefoil Design Framework

The Cinquefoil Design Framework, named for five-petaled flowers, is a philosophical and educational framework supports the creation of hands-on, emotionally safe, and cognitively accessible learning experiences for learners at all levels. From adults who struggled with the typical math education throughout their education to students just starting addition and subtraction, our goal is to create engaging activities that grow from concrete everyday knowledge and develop into true numeracy and understanding. It aligns with current research in learning science, cognitive diversity, and affective regulation. The design avoids grade labels and emphasizes concept-based stages of learning.

The Five-Branch Design Framework includes:

1. Cognitive Load and Conceptual Progression

2. Learning Science and Affective Factors

3. Neurodiversity Informed Design

4. Language, Framing, and Conceptual Metaphors

5. Motivation, Play, and Self-Efficacy

To learn more, click here for an expanded discussion of our Cinquefoil Design Framework.