V. V. Davydov has inspired a great deal of educational research in various western schools of education in generaland mathematics education in particular. This symposium on some of Davydov’s educational ideas, theirphilosophical background and intellectual influences, is located within the theme of “Foundations: Theoretical andresearch approaches.” It brings together scholars who, from different perspectives and backgrounds, have beenworking within the field of Activity Theory and Davydov’s ideas. Its goal is twofold. First, the symposium endeavorsto offer a critical appraisal of some of Davydov’s central concepts and to discuss the question of the philosophicalinfluence in Davydov’s work. Second, it aims to present some current applications of Davydov’s approach to theteaching and learning of mathematics as well as to offer a contrast between Davydov’s approach and otherapproaches in mathematics education.