Crossroads in Mathematics Games: Integrating Indigenous and Exotic Games

Abstract

In numerous countries and higher education institutions, the significance of indigenous games in mathematics education is highly recognized. Nonetheless, the increasing preference for exotic games has placed indigenous mathematics teachers in a challenging position. This research aimed to examine the awareness and understanding of mathematics teachers regarding indigenous games amidst this competition. Initially, the study employed a phenomenological approach, targeting 200 teachers but randomly selecting a sample of 70 for the quantitative phase. Subsequently, the qualitative phase involved in-depth interviews and observation checklists with five teachers to explore the issue further. The collected data was systematically coded and thematically analyzed, focusing on teachers' knowledge, misconceptions, and potential solutions. The findings revealed that some teachers had greater knowledge of indigenous games than exotic ones. Conversely, other teachers believed that exotic games facilitated faster learning outcomes. This divergence created a significant dilemma in choosing indigenous games for mathematics instruction. Despite the popularity of games like draft, playing cards, snake-and-ladder, and Ludo, the teachers ultimately recognized that Indigenous games such as biloo, bilore, gollaa, and mullaa provided superior learning outcomes. Therefore, stakeholders were recommended to revamp mathematics curricula to incorporate indigenous games more effectively.