Ethnomathematics: The use of cultural games in mathematics in the early grades: A South African case study
Ethnomathematics: The use of cultural games in mathematics in the early grades: A South African case study

Summary/Abstract: BACKGROUND: South Africa is known as a rainbow nation due to its ethnicity and cultural diversity. Learning in the early grades is often through play-based teaching through games. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement clearly articulate that the curriculum embraces and accommodates diversity in learning using ethnomathematics. Therefore, it envisages teachers and learners show an ‘appreciation for the beauty and elegance of Mathematics' and developing 'critical awareness of how mathematical relationships are used in social and cultural environment.’ Cultural games can strengthen mathematics teaching and learning. METHOD: This qualitative study within an interpretivist paradigm explored teachers' views on using ethnomathematics in the Foundation Phase especially through cultural games. This study was conducted in a semi-rural school in Gauteng province with six Foundation Phase teachers. The author collected the data through written responses followed by online interviews using a semi-structured interview schedule. Data were analysed using Creswell's six steps of data analysis. RESULTS: The findings revealed that teachers had little understanding of the concept ‘ethnomathematics’, however they were using games for teaching and learning. They believed that cultural games refer especially to African cultural games. They used western and eastern games in their mathematics teaching. DISCUSSION: Teachers agreed that ethnomathematics is crucial for building self-confidence and self-esteem of young learners. They indicated that culturally appropriate mathematics games improved learners' mathematics knowledge, skills, and understanding. Learners were able to apply mathematics principles confidently. They recommended further training and development in the use and design of cultural games.

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