Research on Mathematical Modelling in Mathematics Education has been carried out in Brazil for over three decades. In this period of time, it's possible to confirm that the qualitative research approach is predominant. In this context, we make explicit some meanings of qualitative research in Mathematical Modelling in Mathematics Education in Brazil. Some meanings are unraveled using a phenomenological approach to the question: How does qualitative research show itself in Mathematical Modelling in Mathematics Education? Papers published in the III International Seminar for Research in Mathematics Education - SIPEM, held in 2006, provide the basis for the discussion. The interpretations point to fragilities with respect to the usage of qualitative approach, mainly a lack of detailed descriptions of the procedures of the analysis, which need to be more broadly debated in order to contribute to progress in research in Mathematical Modelling in Mathematics Education.
Qualitative Research; Phenomenology; Mathematical Modelling in Mathematics Education
