The VIBE Framework: A Student-Centered Approach to Teaching Knot Theory in Secondary Mathematics

Fuente: arXiv
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Autore principale: Diamantis, Ioannis
Natura: Preprint
Pubblicazione: 2025
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author Diamantis, Ioannis
author_facet Diamantis, Ioannis
contents Knot theory, a visual and intuitive branch of topology, offers a unique opportunity to introduce advanced mathematical thinking in secondary education. Despite its accessibility and cross-disciplinary relevance, it remains largely absent from standard curricula. This paper proposes the {\it VIBE framework}, a student-centered approach, structured around four pedagogical pillars: Visual, Inquiry-based, Braided (collaborative), and Embedded (contextualized) learning. Rooted in constructivist theory, VIBE supports cognitive development, spatial reasoning, and mathematical engagement across diverse learners. We present a sequence of low-threshold, high-ceiling activities designed to develop core topological concepts while fostering creativity and exploration. Through qualitative heatmaps, clustering visualizations, and classroom snapshots, we demonstrate how knot theory can be transformed into a powerful medium for inquiry and interdisciplinary connection. We believe that the VIBE framework provides a structured yet adaptable approach that supports the integration of deep, meaningful mathematical experiences into secondary education.
format Preprint
id arxiv_https___arxiv_org_abs_2506_22886
institution arXiv
publishDate 2025
record_format arxiv
spellingShingle The VIBE Framework: A Student-Centered Approach to Teaching Knot Theory in Secondary Mathematics
Diamantis, Ioannis
History and Overview
97D40, 97D60, 97D99, 97G99, 00A35
Knot theory, a visual and intuitive branch of topology, offers a unique opportunity to introduce advanced mathematical thinking in secondary education. Despite its accessibility and cross-disciplinary relevance, it remains largely absent from standard curricula. This paper proposes the {\it VIBE framework}, a student-centered approach, structured around four pedagogical pillars: Visual, Inquiry-based, Braided (collaborative), and Embedded (contextualized) learning. Rooted in constructivist theory, VIBE supports cognitive development, spatial reasoning, and mathematical engagement across diverse learners. We present a sequence of low-threshold, high-ceiling activities designed to develop core topological concepts while fostering creativity and exploration. Through qualitative heatmaps, clustering visualizations, and classroom snapshots, we demonstrate how knot theory can be transformed into a powerful medium for inquiry and interdisciplinary connection. We believe that the VIBE framework provides a structured yet adaptable approach that supports the integration of deep, meaningful mathematical experiences into secondary education.
title The VIBE Framework: A Student-Centered Approach to Teaching Knot Theory in Secondary Mathematics
topic History and Overview
97D40, 97D60, 97D99, 97G99, 00A35
url https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.22886