Cognitive Skill Development with Mathematical-Artistic Games: The Mondrian Blocks in the CogniTeach Project and Beyond

Type of Abstract (select): Paper presentation

Abstract (max. 250 words):
The CogniTeach ('Cognitive coaching for needs-based pedagogies in teacher training') project, supported by the European Commission, focuses on enhancing early childhood and primary education. It introduces an extensive online training course for student teachers and trainers, featuring adaptable tests and broad dissemination through partnerships. This initiative aims to develop workshops and a learning management system for delivering innovative teaching methods, targeting significant improvements in young children's educational outcomes. This presentation examines the utility of the Mondrian Blocks, a mathematical-artistic tool, for developing spatial abilities in early education. Spatial abilities are foundational for later learning and talent development, yet they often lack adequate representation in teaching curricula. The Mondrian Blocks game presents mathematical problems where an n x n grid can be divided into rectangles in various ways. This tool fosters crucial cognitive functions in both mathematics and art education, including sensorimotor and executive functions, and abstraction skills. Suitable for both individual and collaborative learning, the game's international research and development, informed by teacher feedback, are justified. The presentation outlines the current results and future directions of the project.


Brief Professional Bio (max. 100 words):
Kristóf Fenyvesi, Ph.D. is a Hungarian researcher from Finland specializing in STEAM education, multidisciplinary learning, and cultural studies. He is a Senior Researcher of University of Jyväskylä’s Finnish Institute for Educational Research, and the founder of Experience Workshop Global STEAM Network. He is a member of various research groups, including the University of Jyväskylä's Research Group for Innovative Learning Environments, Tampere University’s Research Group for Education, Assessment, & Learning, and also a visiting researcher of Tallinn University's Educational Innovation Collaboration Cluster, STEAM4EDU. Associate Professor of Indonesia University of Education (UPI). He is the Community Events Director of the Bridges Organization, globally the largest education community for mathematics and the arts. Fenyvesi has written numerous articles published in prestigious journals and edited math-art-education handbooks. He is an active organizer and contributor of international scientific events, education programs, exhibitions, STEAM workshops, and festivals worldwide.

Judit Kerekes’ educational philosophy is based on a perspective that can promote a positive change for the future. Professor Kerekes visits classrooms frequently. Together they discuss their classroom needs. Power of professional peer learning and collaboration are indeed powerful paradigms which characterize her educational philosophy and teaching style.

Eleonóra Stettner, PhD, holds a Master's degree in Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science. She obtained her PhD degree in Geometry at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. She worked for 25 years in a high school where she taught mathematics, physics and computer science to children aged 10-18. He has been working at the university since 2003. He teaches mathematics at BSc, MSc and PhD level. Most of his publications are on methodology in mathematics teaching, the use of computer programs in mathematics teaching and the relationship between mathematics and the arts. She has been a professional leader and participant in several international projects with an interdisciplinary approach.