V. V. Davydov has inspired a great deal of educational research in various western schools ofeducation in general and mathematics education in particular. This symposium on some ofDavydov’s educational ideas, their philosophical background and intellectual influences islocated within the theme of “Foundations: Theoretical and research approaches.” It bringstogether scholars who, from different perspectives and backgrounds, have been working withinthe field of Activity Theory and Davydov’s ideas. Its goal is twofold. First, the symposiumendeavors to offer a critical appraisal of some of Davydov’s central concepts and to discuss thequestion of the philosophical influence in Davydov’s work. Second, it aims to present somecurrent applications of Davydov’s approach to the teaching and learning of mathematics as wellas to offer a contrast between Davydov’s approach and other approaches in mathematicseducation.To achieve its goal, the symposium is organized in two parts. The first part consists offour presentations. The second part consists of a debate and interaction with the audience.