MATHEMATICAL KNOWLEDGE IN NIGERIAN INDIGENOUS BUILDING AND TRADE PRACTICES: EVIDENCE FROM SIX GEOPOLITICAL ZONES
Keywords:
Ethnomathematics, indigenous mathematical knowledge, indigenous architecture, indigenous tradeAbstract
This study investigated mathematical knowledge embedded in indigenous building and trade practices across selected communities in Nigeria's six geopolitical zones and examined its implications for mathematics education and sustainable development. A qualitative multiple-case study design was adopted, using document review and oral documentation. Data were obtained from documentary sources and semi-structured interviews with 36 purposively selected indigenous knowledge holders comprising traditional builders, traders, community elders and cultural custodians. The data were analysed thematically using D'Ambrosio's Ethnomathematics and Bishop's Six Mathematical Activities as the analytical framework. The findings revealed that indigenous mathematical knowledge is reflected in building practices through geometry, measurement, proportion and spatial organisation, while indigenous trade practices demonstrate counting, estimation, valuation and commercial calculations. The study also found that, despite cultural variations across the six geopolitical zones, common mathematical principles underpin indigenous numeration, architecture and market practices. These findings underscore the educational value of indigenous mathematical knowledge in promoting culturally responsive mathematics instruction and preserving Nigeria's intellectual and cultural heritage. The study concludes that integrating validated indigenous mathematical practices into mathematics curricula and teacher education programmes can enhance learners' conceptual understanding while supporting sustainable development and cultural preservation. It recommends greater documentation of indigenous mathematical knowledge and stronger collaboration among educators, researchers and policymakers to facilitate its effective integration into mathematics education.
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