Creative Teaching in Mathematics: An Example in Linear Algebra

Abstract

Creativity is an integral component in the current pedagogical approaches and curriculums. Creative thinking skills are developed over time and with accumulated competencies and experience. Especially with the global move in the direction of education from knowledge acquisition to competency development, creativity is central to educational curriculums. Being one of the higher order thinking skills, creativity serves as an intrinsic motivation to learn by giving learners freedom for exploration especially when supported by transformative technologies. In mathematics education, creative teaching enhances the development of learners’ creative mathematical thinking and helps them to grasp difficult concepts more easily. Linear algebra is perceived as the more difficult subject in mathematics because it is associated with abstract concepts which are commonly memorized without comprehension. Moreover, students are not familiar with the applications of these concepts. In addition, students’ lack of ability to think abstractly, to make connections. and to visualize the concepts and problems pose challenges in a linear algebra classroom. This paper discusses the use of MATLAB simulation to provide a creative learning experience for the students.