Malaysian Journal of Mathematical Sciences, August 2016, Vol. 10(S)
Special Issue: The 7th International Conference on Research and Education in Mathematics (ICREM7)
The Ethnomathematics of the Kabihug Tribe in Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte, Philippines
Jennifer S. Rubio
Corresponding Email: [email protected]
Received date: -
Accepted date: -
Abstract:
This study qualitatively describes the Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSPs) of the Kabihug tribe in sitio Calibigaho, barangay
Osmena, Jose Panganiban Camarines Norte, Philippines, particularly on the observed ethnomathematical practices of the tribe. The phenomenological study approach was employed to illustrate the "lived experiences" of the informants. Through purposive sampling, ten elders and ten schoolchildren from the tribe were selected. Using the ethnographic interview questions adapted from J. P. Spradley's work and applying participant-observation, they were interviewed and observed during the immersion period. The study was able to describe a glimpse on some of the socio-cultural characteristics of the tribe as well as the ethnomathematical practices that the Kabihug commonly use in their daily lives along: simple counting, ciphering, measuring, classifying, ordering, inferring and modeling patterns arising from the environment. Moreover, the manifested in formal schooling and how they used these concepts and ideas in learning mathematics as taught in the school. Finally, instructional materials in mathematics were developed through the use of the K-12 Curriculum Guide, textbooks and modules for Grades 7 and 8 to highlight and integrate the ethnomathematical practices of the Kabihug tribe. This study offers understanding on Ethnomathematics and contributes to knowledge in the field of Mathematics Education. Likewise, the material as a whole, is intended for the Kabihug themselves, the teachers who are dealing with diverse learners, the curriculum maker, and the school administrators.
Keywords: Ethnomathematics, Culture, Local Practices, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices, Phenomenological Stu
