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Showing posts from November, 2023

Shaping Minds, Transforming Perspectives: Paulo Freire, Ubiratan D'Ambrosio, and the Ethnomathematics Connection

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Hey everyone! Welcome back! In the realm of education and mathematics, two influential figures stand out for their transformative contributions: Paulo Freire and Ubiratan D'Ambrosio. Their work has not only left an indelible mark on the field but has also laid the groundwork for the exploration and understanding of ethnomathematics. In this blog post, we delve into the lives and ideas of these visionaries, exploring their impact on education and the intersection with ethnomathematics.  Paulo Freire: Education for Liberation  Paulo Freire, a Brazilian educator and philosopher, is renowned for his groundbreaking work in critical pedagogy. His seminal work, "Pedagogy of the Oppressed," challenged traditional educational models and advocated for a participatory approach that empowers learners. Freire's ideas centred on dialogue, critical thinking, and the recognition of learners as active participants in their education. Freire emphasized the importance of understanding e...

Ancient Calculations: The Ishango Bone and Native American Mathematical Traditions

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Welcome back to my blog!      For this week, we heavily discussed mathematics as a whole and its relation to cultures and our everyday life. Mathematics is often seen as a universal language, but the way it is expressed and used can vary greatly across cultures. In this blog post, we'll explore two unique mathematical stories: the Ishango Bone, an ancient African artifact, and the diverse mathematical traditions of Native American cultures. Through these fascinating examples, we'll delve into the world of ethnomathematics and how it highlights the diversity and richness of mathematical thinking across different societies. The Ishango Bone: Ancient African Mathematical Innovation       The Ishango Bone is a small tool made from the fibula of a baboon and was discovered in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. This artifact, dating back to around 20,000 years ago, provides a rare glimpse into the mathematical thinking of early African societies. ...