Dr. Derek Eckman

Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics & Statistics

Dr. Derek Eckman is an assistant professor of mathematics education at Idaho State University. He has co-led the implementation of standards-based grading in the coordinated precalculus course, including supervising the reassessment scheduling form and testing room. He has also piloted or supported instructors implementing standards-based grading in trigonometry and calculus, and is collecting data to report on and refine its implementation at ISU. In his teaching, Derek frequently employs group work, real-time formative assessments, Desmos animations, and a strong focus on developing verbal and symbolic communication skills about mathematical ideas. Derek is also a member of Idaho State University’s NOYCE scholarship team, which aims to increase the number of K-12 STEM educators in Idaho by providing funded opportunities for students to engage in a range of teacher-preparation activities.

Derek completed his Ph.D. in mathematics education at Arizona State University, during which time he taught using the research-based Pathways Precalculus and DIRACC Calculus curricula. Prior to this, Derek taught mathematics for five years at Holbrook High School in Holbrook, Arizona, where the student population was primarily Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe members. Outside of school, Derek enjoys performing and creating music on the piano, organ, trumpet, and vocally. He also reads in a book club with his wife, cycles with his kids, and tries to cook meals that elicit as few groans as possible from picky eaters.