Teaching Artful Expressions of Mathematical Beauty

Abstract

Students who may typically view mathematics as a sterile and disjointed subject are learning new skills and concepts using a suite of virtual design tools to create artful expressions. Students being instructed in the use of these tools can artistically explore artifacts illustrating several Native American cultures as they learn mathematical concepts and apply them to replicate the art or create their own interpretations. Readers of this chapter will gain insights into cultural definitions of “art”, “mathematics”, and “technology” in various Native American communities, culturally effective instruction for Native American students, the role of technology in enhancing mathematical understanding of students using Native American Art (bead and loom work, wampum, and rug weaving), and illustrative applications of technology connecting art and mathematics instruction using virtual design tools.