Discusses the traditional number systems and the origin of the number names used by several African peoples living south of the Sahara. Also included are limitations in African mathematical development, and possible topics for research. (RP)

Take prisoners, sow seeds, or eat the opponent's beans. A unique cultural approach to math. (Editor)

On a scale of "moja" to "kumi", African math studies rate "kumi" with kids. (Editor)

In presenting a rationale for allowing--even encouraging--children to count on their fingers, the author illustrates finger counting systems from African and American Indian tribes and the medieval European system cataloged by the Venerable Bede. She cites number words from many languages which derive from names for gestures. (SJL)

A description is given of an in-service course or workshop on the subject of the mathematics developed by the peoples of Africa and other cultures in the course of their daily lives. (MP)

Patterns found in African art can be used in activities related to geometric concepts. (SD)

Introducing network theory to schoolchildren is promoted as a way of encouraging students to deal with new situations, be unafraid of challenges, and learn to think. Several applications, methods of analysis, and suggestions for further activities are provided. (MP)

The educational failure of ethnic minority children in the industrialized countries has persuaded some educators of the need to incorporate multicultural perspectives into the mathematics curriculum. All societies have developed mathematical practices appropriate to their daily lives and cultures, an area of mathematics known as…

This document describes the contributions of African peoples to the science of mathematics. The development of a number system is seen as related to need. Names of numbers, time reckoning, gesture counting, and counting materials are examined. Mystical beliefs about numbers and special meanings in pattern are presented. Reproductions of patterns,…