Abstract
It is commonly claimed that mathematics is the discipline that underpins all of STEM. However, mathematics often seems to occupy a “servant” role in integrated STEM education, acting as a tool to support learning in the other STEM disciplines. In this chapter, I first consider three other established approaches to interdisciplinary mathematics education—curriculum integration, mathematical literacy, and mathematical modelling—to identify theoretical and practical resources for integrated STEM education that pushes mathematics to the fore. I then organise my commentary on the contributions to this volume around five key research themes: interdisciplinary curriculum models and approaches; student experiences and outcomes; teacher preparation and professional development; classroom implementation and task design; and policy, structures, and leadership. This analysis suggests three perspectives on the role of mathematics in integrated STEM education that need to work together to enrich students’ learning: mathematics as the goal, mathematics as a tool, and mathematics as an integrative bridge between the STEM disciplines.