Influence of Indigenous Games on the Mathematics Foundation Knowledge for Young Children in Afijio Local Government
Keywords:
Indigenous Games, Mathematics Foundation Knowledge, Early Childhood Education, Cultural Relevance, Cognitive Development, Educational PracticesAbstract
This study explores the impact of indigenous games on the foundational mathematics knowledge of young children, addressing the need for culturally relevant educational practices in early childhood education. Building on Lev Vygotsky's Theory of Play-Based Learning (1934), the research aims to determine whether participation in indigenous games enhances early mathematical skills such as counting, pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and problem-solving. The study responds to a gap in the literature regarding the integration of cultural activities into formal education. A mixed-method research design was employed, involving a sample of 200 children from Afijio Local Government, selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using self-structured questionnaires, standardized tests to assess mathematical skills, and observations to record interactions during play. The instruments were validated by experts in early childhood education and mathematics, with a reliability test yielding a Cronbach's Alpha of 0.70. Data analysis included both descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics to compare the mathematics foundation knowledge between groups, along with thematic analysis of qualitative data. The findings demonstrate that indigenous games significantly enhance children's foundational mathematics knowledge, suggesting that those who engage in these activities perform better in mathematics than their peers. The study highlights the importance of integrating indigenous games into early childhood curricula, not only to improve mathematical learning but also to preserve and promote cultural identity. These results underscore the need for educational policies that incorporate culturally relevant practices, providing a dual benefit of academic and cultural development.
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