Ratih Ayu Apsari is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Learning Sciences & Human Development program at the University of California, Berkeley. Her research develops culturally situated, embodied designs for mathematics learning, bridging movement traditions and geometry education. Ratih initiated and leads GRiD—Geometry Resources in Dance, which explores how Balinese dance can serve as a resource for mathematical reasoning through movement and design. Drawing on her background in mathematics education and training in Balinese dance, she designs low-cost, recyclable learning materials and collaborates internationally with teachers and researchers to adapt GRiD to diverse cultural contexts.
During her first four years at Berkeley, Ratih has served as a Graduate Student Instructor for CalTeach teacher-preparation and education-minor courses. She also mentors undergraduate researchers through the Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program (URAP) and EDSTEM courses, guiding them in projects related to her research. Before beginning her Ph.D., Ratih taught for five years in mathematics education programs at public universities in Indonesia.
Beyond academia, Ratih contributes to the educational movement in Indonesia through workshops, lectures, and online learning initiatives that support in-service and pre-service teachers, families, and local communities. In the Bay Area, she continues to share her cultural roots by performing Balinese dance at community and academic events.
For project details and publications, visit the GRiD project page (https://edrl.berkeley.edu/projects/geometry-resources-in-dance-grid/)
Specializations and Interests
mathematics education, embodied cognition, design-based research, cultural funds of knowledge, cross-cultural epistemic diversity
