Creativity in Mathematics Curricula – An International Comparison between Singapore, Hong Kong, Sweden, and Norway

Abstract: Studies have shown that creative mathematically founded reasoning (CMR) outperforms algorithmic reasoning (AR) in regards to retention and (re)construction of knowledge. This suggests that creativity should be encouraged in national high-school mathematics curricula. The aim of the present study is to compare how creativity is framed in different national high-school mathematics curricula, using the following definition: creativity is the characteristics of people, processes, and environments which lead to new and original products that are useful or otherwise attractive to an individual or a society. Utilizing content and discourse analysis, the present study thus contrasts how the high-school mathematics curricula of Singapore, Hong Kong, Sweden, and Norway handle and value creativity, and also examines which role creativity takes in each curricula. Findings suggest that Singapore’s curriculum emphasizes creativity the most, and frequently does so in relation to assessment. Hong Kong’s curriculum is found to emphasize creativity in diverse ways, often using words with connotations to playfulness. Analysis of Sweden’s curriculum indicates a relatively minute focus on creativity, tending to put it in a teacher-centered context. A feature of Norway’s curriculum is an increasing emphasis on creativity as courses approach tertiary education. This also suggests a rising value of creativity in its curriculum. A similar though not as pronounced trajectory is found also in Singapore’s curriculum. In the Asian and Norwegian curricula, creativity is expressed both as a means and an end, while in Sweden’s curriculum it is only seen as an end. The results are discussed in terms of potential reasons for the prominent national features, and the study also includes an evaluation of the aptness of the suggested definition of creativity, a review of the limitations of the study, as well as propositions for further research. Finally, two recommendations are given to the National Agency for Education in Sweden – Skolverket – based on the results of the study: 1) diversify the emphasis on creativity in the curriculum, and 2) ensure alignment between what teachers value and what Skolverket values with respect to creativity.