George Fox University Receives $334,000 NSF Grant to Develop Games for Early Math Education
November 11, 2025
NEWBERG, Oregon – The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded George Fox Professor of Education Nicole Enzinger a grant to lead an innovative study in mathematics education. The funded project totals nearly $1 million, and George Fox will receive $334,000 of the collaborative grant.
Conducted over three and a half years, the project goals include designing, play testing, and distributing six board and card games specifically crafted for students in grades 2-4. The initiative aims to address a persistent national challenge: Many students struggle in algebra because they encounter negative integers and the meanings of the minus sign for the first time in middle school. By introducing these concepts earlier through interactive play, the project hopes to build mathematical coherence and boost student motivation and achievement.
“This project is a fantastic opportunity for fostering a love of mathematics and supporting a future generation of students as they prepare for advanced STEM careers,” Enzinger said.
Key goals for the grant include:
- Designing games that help students connect whole number principles to integer operations
- Measuring the games’ impact on student motivation, engagement, and learning
- Developing and distributing versions of the games that can be freely used in classrooms and family math nights nationwide
Results and resources from the project will be shared widely, including through local school districts, academic conferences, and educator networks. As algebra is widely recognized as a “gatekeeper” for advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) coursework and careers, this project is poised to make a lasting impact on educational equity and student success.
George Fox University is Oregon’s largest private university. It is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a “Best National University.” More than 4,000 students attend classes on the university’s campus in Newberg, Oregon, and at teaching centers in Portland and Redmond, Oregon. George Fox offers more than 60 academic programs at the undergraduate level, accelerated online degrees for working adults, and 21 master's and doctoral degrees.
Contact:
Carly Reumann
(503) 554-2101