Playfulness in Mathematics Education

methodological proposal for teaching and learning

Resumen

Mathematics, with each passing day, becomes more complex; therefore, it is necessary to innovate teaching methods, linking the importance of this area of knowledge to students’ daily lives. This approach helps them become critical and participatory individuals, facilitating the teaching process so that learning flows naturally. According to Sadovsky (2007), low performance in mathematics is a reality not only in Brazil but in many countries. Therefore, this work aims to reflect on teaching mathematics through play. To demonstrate the practical application of this approach, we conducted a research and extension project in some public schools in the city of Caçador, targeting ninth-year elementary and first-year high school students. We implemented mathematical content through games and observed significant improvement in student learning. Our methodology included pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires to evaluate the effectiveness and satisfaction of students and teachers involved. To this end, we carried out pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires to evaluate the effectiveness and satisfaction of students and teachers involved in this project. In the pre-test, we administered a list of exercises with mathematical content. After this application, we analyzed the results to identify the areas where students had the most difficulties. We then conducted fun activities to help them improve these difficulties. Subsequently, we administered a new activity with mathematical content similar to the pre-test to check for any improvement, and the results were excellent.