Rods, Sets and Arrows The Rise and Fall of Modern Mathematics in Belgium

“Who should read this book? The promises and pitfalls of the new math era in its various national guises remain essential knowledge for anyone involved in the reform of mathematics education today. … As a historian of mathematics education with numerous colleagues who have skillfully researched assorted aspects of the history of new math and produced thoughtful and readable scholarship … . I enjoyed this book for the interesting story it tells.” (Amy Ackerberg‑Hastings, Science & Education, Vol. 34 (6), December, 2025) 

“This research is not merely historically interesting but is also relevant to understanding what present-day STEM (and I would add STEAM) initiatives are really about and what the potentials pitfalls and dangers can be, and what the underlying educational aims and goals are (or should be) vis-à-vis society at large.” (Jean Paul Van Bendegem, Centaurus, Vol. 63, Issue 3, 2021)

“The great merit of the book by de Bock and Vanpaemel is that it offers a comprehensive picture of 50 years of mathematics education, based on an overwhelming number of sources. It is a ‘must read’ for everyone who is seriously interested in the history of mathematics education.” (Harm Jan Smid, History of Education, Vol. 26, September 15, 2020)

“The main focus of the book Rods, Sets and Arrows is on an episode during a definite period in the history of Belgian mathematics education. … The book may hopefully encourage international readers and scholars to delve into research and to write an account of events and developments leading up to the present status of mathematics education in their own country.” (Kristín Bjarnadóttir, Educational Studies in Mathematics, Vol. 104, 2020)