Gattegno's Work in Mathematics Education

Gattegno’s work in mathematics education focused on understanding how learners best acquire mathematical concepts. He emphasized the importance of a stress-free, intuitive approach that builds understanding through natural exploration rather than rote memorization. He developed methods such as “Basic Education” and “Silent Way,” which encourage students to discover mathematical relationships independently, fostering deeper comprehension and confidence. Gattegno believed that learners should develop a strong foundational “sense” of mathematics, enabling them to think logically and creatively. His approach aimed to make math accessible, engaging, and meaningful, promoting learning as an active, personal process.