Ethnomathematics Journal
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): March

Reconceptualizing ethnomathematical knowledge: A recursive framework of culture, practice, cognition, and mathematization

Itgel Miyejav (National University of Mongolia)



Article Info

Publish Date
20 Jun 2026

Abstract

Addressing the lack of integrative theoretical models in ethnomathematics, this article proposes the Culture–Practice–Cognition–Mathematization (CPCM) framework as a culturally grounded approach for interpreting ethnomathematical knowledge. The framework conceptualizes ethnomathematical knowledge as a decentralized system of relations among culture, practice, cognition, and mathematization, shifting attention from the identification of isolated mathematical elements toward the processes through which knowledge is constituted, transmitted, and transformed within culturally situated activities. Culture is understood as the epistemological ground that shapes the meaning and legitimacy of knowledge; practice as the domain in which knowledge is enacted; cognition as the process through which knowledge is interpreted and generalized; and mathematization as the process through which relationships become represented, modelled, and systematized. Rather than treating mathematization as a final stage leading toward formal mathematics, the framework views it as one dimension within a broader system of knowledge formation. The explanatory potential of the framework is illustrated through an analytical vignette of the Mongolian ger. Overall, the CPCM framework provides an integrative perspective for examining ethnomathematical knowledge across diverse cultural contexts and offers a foundation for future empirical and educational research.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ethnomath

Publisher

Subject

Arts Education Mathematics Social Sciences Other

Description

Ethnomathematics Journal is an open access - international journal that provides a forum for publishing research reports, theoretical review, ideas, or innovation of mathematics education including ethnomathematics referring to the works of DAmbroisio and the colleagues. This journal is designed and ...