Abstract
The enduring challenge of facilitating profound knowledge acquisition and meaningful learning of mathematical concepts has been a constant throughout contemporary and historical educational contexts. This issue is particularly pronounced at higher education levels, where many students struggle to connect theoretical mathematical concepts with practical applications in their professional careers. In this context, our research undertakes a systematic review of scientific literature from 2020 onwards, critically examining diverse pedagogical strategies to enhance the efficiency and depth of mathematical learning. Our findings indicate a marked prevalence of semiotic representations and gamification in the literature. Semiotic representations emerge as a potent strategy for achieving deep cognitive engagement and a thorough understanding of mathematical concepts. Gamification, as an active learning method, proves to be a highly effective approach for enhancing student engagement and motivation, thereby helping students overcome their apprehension towards mathematics. Furthermore, the literature underscores the crucial role of educator training in successfully implementing these strategies. The evidence suggests that a synergistic combination of semiotic representations and gamification could significantly enhance students’ mathematical learning experiences, fostering a meaningful understanding firmly rooted in real-world problem-solving. This integrated approach holds substantial promise for advancing educational outcomes and better-preparing students for the practical demands of their professional lives.