There is a hidden world somewhere.
A hidden universe of beauty and elegance, bound to our everyday world by a thousand threads.
This is the world of mathematics.
And it is invisible to most of us.
/Edward Frenkel/
The relationship between mathematics, the arts and creative thinking is an exciting area of research. The aim of the research group is to explore the interrelationships between arts education and mathematical competence, and to assess the impact of targeted interventions carried out within the classroom setting. We hypothesise that arts education has a positive impact on the sub-skills of mathematical competence and on performance in mathematics. We are developing arts programmes that can be applied in everyday teaching practice, which directly and positively influence mathematical outcomes, reduce performance anxiety and increase motivation to learn. The history of mathematical discoveries and the latest research demonstrate that divergent and creative thinking are essential for high-level problem-solving. Through this research, we aim to substantiate the widely accepted thesis that arts education is effective in enhancing creative potential and that, with appropriate methodological support, creative mathematical thinking and problem-solving can be developed.
The studies will be conducted with pupils in Years 9 and 10 of secondary school. We will develop classroom-based methods across three modules (music, dance and movement, and visual arts), each focusing on a different area of mathematics. To measure the effectiveness of these interventions, we are adapting and developing quantitative and qualitative assessment tools. The research is being carried out in partnership with three arts universities: the Hungarian University of Fine Arts, the Hungarian University of Dance, and the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music
We are working with 16 teachers from eight secondary schools to develop and trial the methodology. Both maths teachers and arts teachers are taking part in the programme.
We welcome applications from further teachers and institutions wishing to trial and implement this innovative methodology. Both maths teachers and arts teachers may take part in the programme, and we are extending the application of these methods to Years 7 and 8 as well.
