Mathematical concepts from community elders: exploring the connection between ethnomathematical contexts and classroom practices

Abstract

Members of the community possess a wealth of knowledge in indigenous activities and artifacts. The analysis of the various indigenous activities and artifacts show a variety of mathematical concepts and processes. Even though some of the community members have not attended formal schooling or have not studied to a significantly high level, they are able to use the related mathematical concepts with ease as they engage in the activities. This Report identifies some of the mathematical concepts that are embedded in the indigenous activities and shows how most of the community members use such mathematical concepts with ease. The report concludes by indicating how this knowledge can be used to advance mathematical understanding in the classroom.