Mathematical Modelling Programs in Latin America: A Collaborative Context for Social Construction of Knowledge for Educational Change

This book explores the unique and sophisticated study of mathematics in Latin America, which has been developed over centuries of cultural exchange between Europe, North, and South America. It provides empirical evidence of a category of mathematical modeling that assesses the horizontal and reciprocal relations between mathematics and the real world, leading to epistemological and ontological changes. The book presents an inquiry-based approach of three Latin American modeling programs: ethnomodelling, transversality of knowledge, and reasoned decision-making, which provide educational gains and envision profound educational change through the development of different approaches of mathematical modeling.

Format: Hardback
Length: 414 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the profound and intricate exploration of mathematics in Latin America, a rich tapestry woven through centuries of cultural exchange between Europe, North, and South America. It sheds light on the unique, sophisticated, and rigorous study of mathematics that has emerged over time, driven by the interplay of diverse influences.

More specifically, the book delves into the tradition of mathematical modeling, which was introduced a century ago. This modeling was crafted to empower members of different communities to gain insights into their own realities by creating representations that generate mathematical knowledge. This knowledge encompasses the realms of creativity and invention, offering a means to understand and interpret the world around us.

The book stands as a testament to the power of mathematical modeling in Latin America, providing empirical evidence that a specific category of modeling has been developed to assess the horizontal and reciprocal relations between mathematics and the real world. These relations serve as a catalyst for epistemological and ontological change, recognizing mathematical knowledge across different contexts, whether in school or non-school settings. They compel mathematics teachers and students to view themselves as part of a collective knowledge community, where academic knowledge and functional knowledge intertwine to shape their mathematical categories and understanding of their environment.

The dimensions of these relationships form a framework that guides educational change in mathematics. The book presents an inquiry-based approach encompassing three Latin American modeling programs: ethnomodelling, transversality of knowledge, and reasoned decision-making. Each program, with its distinct theoretical and methodological foundations rooted in ethnomathematics, socioepistemology, and the attribution of meaning to learning, offers educational gains of its own.

These modeling programs, while independent in their approach, collectively contribute to the enrichment of mathematics education in Latin America. They cater to different levels of specificity, aligning with the philosophical, theoretical, and methodological frameworks that underpin them. By embracing the power of mathematical modeling, Latin American educators are paving the way for a more inclusive and transformative learning experience, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

In conclusion, this book offers a captivating journey into the world of mathematics in Latin America, highlighting the profound impact of cultural exchange and the development of innovative modeling programs. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of mathematics as a tool for understanding, creativity, and educational transformation.

Weight: 811g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031042706
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022