Creativity Giftedness and Talent Development in Mathematics (PB)

A Volume in The Montana Mathematics Enthusiast:Monograph Series in Mathematics EducationSeries Editor Bharath Sriraman The University of MontanaOur innovative spirit and creativity lies beneath the comforts and security of today's technologicallyevolved society. Scientists inventors investors artists and leaders play a vital role in theadvancement and transmission of knowledge. Mathematics in particular plays a central role innumerous professions and has historically served as the gatekeeper to numerous other areas ofstudy particularly the hard sciences engineering and business. Mathematics is also a major componentin standardized tests in the U.S. and in university entrance exams in numerous parts ofworld.Creativity and imagination is often evident when young children begin to develop numeric andspatial concepts and explore mathematical tasks that capture their interest. Creativity is also anessential ingredient in the work of professional mathematicians. Yet the bulk of mathematical thinking encouraged in the institutionalizedsetting of schools is focused on rote learning memorization and the mastery of numerous skills to solve specific problems prescribedby the curricula or aimed at standardized testing. Given the lack of research based perspectives on talent development inmathematics education this monograph is specifically focused on contributions towards the constructs of creativity and giftedness inmathematics. This monograph presents new perspectives for talent development in the mathematics classroom and gives insights intothe psychology of creativity and giftedness. The book is aimed at classroom teachers coordinators of gifted programs math contestcoaches graduate students and researchers interested in creativity giftedness and talent development in mathematics.