Pixel International Conferences

Although in many cases mathematics is considered a rigid discipline, in reality there are many ways to achieve the same result and for this reason teaching mathematics can be implemented through various approaches to assist individual child predispositions, two of these methods worth mentioning are Steinerian and Montessorian methods. Field research shows that children benefit greatly from the use of Montessorian materials for mathematics as well as from Steiner's rhythms which prove that integration with the traditional method not only increases the skills and knowledge of children but also their appreciation for maths and sciences in general, for both main stream children and children with specific needs. Even some artistic representations harmoniously display some examples of mathematical problems: such as Escher’s painting of the tiles at the Alhambra, Gaudi's magic squares and Munari’s machines. A key role is played by outdoor activities. Learning immersed in nature, feeling emotions, cooperating with others if desired facilitates the learning process. Today, thanks to modern technologies and neuroscience research, we are able to identify the most suitable learning mechanisms for each child and make mathematics truly accessible to everyone. This process can only take place with the knowledge of the different methods and  learning systems (teacher training) as well as through the knowledge of mathematics itself. In addition to the research results, various didactic materials  and methodological examples will be shown during the presentation.

Keywords: Montessori materials, Steiner Waldorf schools, analogical method, outdoor education, mathematics in nature.

References:

[1] L. Albanese, Multiple languages of mathematics and children with disabilities p152-154 in New perspectives in science education (2014), Libreriauniversitaria.it Edizioni
[2] L. Albanese, Tutti i numeri del Mondo(2013), Sinnos
[3] L. Albanese, Lo scatolone della matematica, Bombini (4/2009)
[4] C. Baroncelli, Didattica interculturale delle Scienze (2000), Editrice Missionaria.
[5] A. M. Cappelletti, Didattica interculturale della matematica (2000), editrice Missionaria.
[6] T. Gould, The little book of math outdoors (2013), Bloomsbury Publishing