The Recreational Mathematics subgroup, affiliated with the Mathematics Education (EDUMAT) research group at the Faculty of Sciences of the Industrial University of Santander (UIS), held the Twenty-Fifth Meeting of Students of the Mathematical Calendar. A total of 163 fourth- and fifth-grade elementary school students from 37 educational institutions in Santander participated in this event.
During the event, the children tackled problem solving based on five areas of mathematical thinking: geometric, algebraic, arithmetic, statistical, and metric. These components were worked on through playful activities designed to stimulate reasoning and creativity.
“The goal is for students to develop skills through solving problems from the math calendar and to interact with peers from other institutions. All of this is done through a recreational math approach that stimulates an interest in this science,” explained Juddy Valderrama, a teacher and researcher with the EDUMAT-UIS group.
Teachers from participating institutions highlighted the educational value of these types of spaces, which allow for the exploration of new ways of learning outside the traditional classroom.
“These activities, led by the EDUMAT group at UIS, offer students the opportunity to develop a different way of thinking about mathematics than usual, enhancing skills that are often not evident in class. It is undoubtedly a very enriching experience,” said Roger Ardila, a teacher at the UIS College Foundation.
The day was positively evaluated by the students, who highlighted the collaborative atmosphere, the fun approach to the activities, and the support of the teachers.
“I had a great time, it was a lot of fun, I met a lot of people, and I really liked the teachers. Even though math may seem difficult, with dedication and practice, you can achieve great things,” said Zair Martínez, a student at the Gabriela Mistral Business Institute in Floridablanca.
Finally, parents thanked the UIS and the EDUMAT group for opening these spaces, recognizing their contribution to early mathematics education.
“I think it’s a very interesting activity because it contributes to the development of logical thinking in children. It also motivates them to take an interest in mathematics from a playful and attractive perspective,” said Patricia Barón, a parent.
